Phoenix, Ariz, July 27, 2020 – USDA Rural Development Arizona State Director Jack Smith today announced that the Trump Administration is investing $14 million to modernize critical wastewater infrastructure in Kayenta, Ariz.
“Without modernized, improved infrastructure, rural communities cannot achieve economic prosperity,” Smith said. “We are excited to be a part of the wastewater management facility enhancements that will improve public health in Navajo, Apache and Coconino counties.”
USDA has awarded a $14 million grant to the Navajo Tribal Utility Authority (NTUA) to improve the Kayenta Wastewater Treatment Plant located on the Navajo Nation. The plant, built in 1964, has been upgraded incrementally over the years, but these new improvements are necessary for the plant to comply with the current Environmental Protection Agency wastewater regulations.
The Navajo Tribal Utility Authority (NTUA) is a non-profit tribal enterprise that is organized for the operation, maintenance and expansion of electric, gas, communications, water and wastewater for communities within the 27,000-square-mile Navajo Nation.
USDA is making the investment through the Water & Waste Disposal Grants to Alleviate Health Risks on Tribal Lands and Colonias program. This program provides low-income communities, that face significant health risks access to safe, reliable drinking water and waste disposal facilities and services.
To learn more about investment resources for Arizona rural areas, interested parties should contact the USDA Rural Development Arizona state office.
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/az.
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