A $7 Million Loan from Rural Development Will Fund Neuse Charter School Expansion
(Smithfield, N.C., March 9, 2026) — As part of its commitment to strengthening rural communities, the U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development is investing $7 million through its Community Facilities Loan Program to expand Neuse Charter School in Smithfield, North Carolina.
“Strong rural schools are foundational to a strong nation,” said Deputy Under Secretary Neal Robbins. “President Trump’s focus on rural investment and educational freedom allows communities to grow, parents to choose, and students to succeed.”
The funding will support construction of a new, two story, 25,000 square foot academic building serving grades K-5. The expansion will allow the school to meet growing enrollment demand while enhancing classroom capacity and modernizing instructional space.
North Carolina Rural Development State Director Robert Hosford joined school leaders and community members to mark the groundbreaking for the project.
“This expansion is about meeting the needs of students and educators here in Johnston County,” Hosford said. “Through USDA’s Community Facilities Loan Program we are providing affordable financing that allows communities to build the infrastructure they need to grow. This new facility will give teachers the space and resources to continue delivering a quality education for their students.”
The new building will feature:
- 20 Classrooms
- Administrative Offices
- Restrooms
- Elevators
The USDA Community Facilities Loan and Grant Program provides affordable financing to develop essential community facilities in rural areas, including schools, public safety facilities, health care centers and other critical infrastructure.
USDA Rural Development provides loans, grants and technical assistance to support economic development, infrastructure, and quality-of-life improvements in rural communities across North Carolina and the nation.
To learn more about USDA Rural Development programs, visit https://www.rd.usda.gov/nc.
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