USDA Invests $266 Million to Improve Rural Community Facilities and Essential Services in 16 States and Puerto Rico
Funding Includes $440,000 for a library building in Udall, Kansas
TOPEKA, Kan., Mar. 23, 2021 – U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development Acting State Director for Kansas Dan Fischer today announced that USDA is investing $440,000 to construct a building to house the library of the city of Udall.
“Modern, safe community infrastructure is essential for rural communities to thrive,” Fischer said. “Whether it’s a safe and accessible library or facilities for public and civic meetings, rural communities rely on modern infrastructure to invigorate and serve their town and public. USDA is dedicated to rural communities like Udall and their long-term commitments to economic prosperity; because when rural America prospers, all of America prospers.”
Background:
The city of Udall will use a $144,000 loan to construct a new building to house their public library, public meeting spaces, a wellness facility with space for exercise equipment and exam rooms. When the new building is completed, the city of Udall will give the current library space to the historical museum. This project will provide community space for the nearly 800 residents of Udall.
Today’s investment is in coordination with the recent announcement by Deputy Under Secretary Justin Maxson that USDA is investing $266 million to build and improve critical community facilities to benefit nearly 3 million rural residents in 16 states and Puerto Rico. This funding includes $156 million to support health-care-related improvements and emergency response services that will benefit nearly 1 million rural residents in nine states and Puerto Rico.
These investments were made through the Community Facilities Direct Loan and Grant Program and can be used to build or upgrade schools, libraries, clinics and public safety facilities
More than 100 types of projects are eligible for Community Facilities funding. Eligible applicants include municipalities, public bodies, nonprofit organizations and federally recognized Native American tribes. Projects must be in rural areas with a population of 20,000 or less.
Interested parties should contact their USDA Rural Development state office for information about additional funding, application procedures and eligibility details. Also see the Community Facilities Direct Loan Program Guidance Book for Applicants (PDF, 669 KB) for a detailed overview of the application process.
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/ks.
If you’d like to subscribe to USDA Rural Development updates, visit our GovDelivery subscriber page.
USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer and lender.
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