The Trump Administration today announced that the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) is investing $462 million to modernize critical drinking water and wastewater infrastructure across rural America.
“Upgrading the infrastructure that delivers safe drinking water and modern wastewater management facilities will improve public health and drive economic development in our small towns and cities,” Deputy Under Secretary for Rural Development Bette Brand said. “Under the leadership of President Trump and Agriculture Secretary Perdue, USDA continues to be a strong partner with rural communities, because we know that when rural America thrives, all of America thrives.”
Background:
USDA is funding 161 projects through the Water and Waste Disposal Loan and Grant Program. These investments will benefit 467,000 residents. USDA Rural Development State Director Roy Holleman stated that four projects in today’s announcement are in Louisiana.
• Zone Two Water System received $972,000 to replace water mains, meters, and construct an Architectural Barriers Act Accessibility Standard meeting room.
• Town of Colfax received $2,237,000 to drill two water production wells, replace deteriorated aerator, repair leaking water lines, and update water meters.
• Town of Tullos received $1,165,000 to construct a water treatment plant.
• Waterworks District #2 of St Landry Parish received $2,158,000 to add water softeners, install ground storage tank, and replace service pumps. Additional improvements are a new building, generator, and replacing aging water meters.
To learn more about investment resources for rural areas in Louisiana, interested parties should contact our Community Programs Division at (318) 473-7940.
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.
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