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Trump Administration Invests $100 Million to Improve Rural Electric Infrastructure in Arkansas

Name
Karen Petrus
Phone
City
LITTLE ROCK, AR
Release Date

Today, U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development Arkansas State Director, David Branscum, announced that Craighead Electric Cooperative is receiving $100 million to build and improve critical electric infrastructure that will benefit Arkansas. 

“These investments will improve electric service by connecting more consumers, building and improving lines, and modernizing power grids in Arkansas,” Branscum said.  “Under the leadership of President Trump and Agriculture Secretary Perdue, USDA continues to be a strong partner to rural communities, because when rural America thrives, all of America thrives.”

Background:

The funding received by Craighead Electric Cooperative will be used to connect 2,321 consumers and build and improve 348 miles of line. This loan includes over $59 million in smart grid technologies. Craighead Electric is headquartered in Jonesboro, Ark., and serves more than 30,700 consumers over 4,800 miles of line in Craighead, Crittenden, Greene, Independence, Lawrence, Poinsett, Randolph and Sharp counties.  USDA is investing in this project through the Electric Loan Program.

USDA Rural Development provides loans and grants to help expand economic opportunities and create jobs in rural areas. This assistance supports infrastructure improvements; business development; housing; community facilities such as schools, public safety and health care; and high-speed internet access in rural areas. For more information, visit www.rd.usda.gov. If you’d like to subscribe to USDA Rural Development updates, visit our GovDelivery subscriber page.