Maine Project is part of $40 Million in Infrastructure Investments in Rural Communities
Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue today highlighted U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) investments in Fiscal Year 2017 that will help construct or improve infrastructure and boost economic growth in rural communities. In Maine, the Aroostook Band of Micmacs have been selected to receive a total of $590,000 for construction of a public works facility.
“USDA is focused on improving rural America’s infrastructure,” Perdue said. “Investments such as the ones I’m highlighting today will improve the quality of life, create jobs, grow our economy and foster prosperity in rural areas.”
USDA Rural Development State Director Timothy P. Hobbs said, “I am pleased that USDA Rural Development can continue its ongoing commitment to strengthening Maine’s Tribal communities. This investment will help the Aroostook Band of Micmacs to construct a facility that will support the Tribe’s vital programs and infrastructure.”
The Aroostook Band of Micmacs have been selected to receive a USDA Rural Development Community Facilities Direct Loan in the amount of $500,000 and Community Facilities Grant in the amount of $90,000.
This funding will provide a new garage/maintenance facility as well as needed storage space for various tribal programs including housing, reality and assets, youth, head start and elder programs. The 5,000 square foot facility will be two stories, with 2,500 square feet per story. The lower level will be used for vehicle storage, equipment storage and wash bay. The upper level will be used for program storage, maintenance office space, locker room, breakroom, and other storage. In addition, the project involves road upgrades (Summit Drive which provides access the facility), water, sewer and electrical upgrades to service the facility as well as a paved parking area.
In Fiscal Year 2017, USDA used funding from the Community Facilities Direct Loan Program to invest more than $40 million in 31 projects to repair, enhance or build infrastructure. These investments were for projects such as surface transportation, aviation, ports, water and storm water resources, energy production and generation, and electricity transmission. They will benefit nearly 265,000 residents.
USDA Rural Development has Area Offices located in Presque Isle, Bangor, Lewiston, and Scarborough, as well as a State Office, located in Bangor. There are 54 employees working to deliver the agency’s Housing, Business, and Community Programs, which are designed to improve the economic stability of rural communities, businesses, residents, and farmers, and improve the quality of life in rural Maine. Further information on rural programs is available at a local USDA Rural Development office or by visiting USDA Rural Development's web site at http://www.rd.usda.gov/me.