U.S. Department of Agriculture-Rural Development (USDA-RD) Alaska State Director Jim Nordlund, today announced USDA-RD is awarding $60,000 of funding to the City of Saxman. The funding is provided through USDA-RD Alaska’s Community Facility Direct Grant.
"This much-needed funding will be used to replace the roof of the City owned Tribal House in Saxman. The building is the centerpiece of Totem Park and is of great value historically, culturally and economically," Nordlund said.
Replacing the roof will prevent damage to the red cedar ceiling purlins which are custom made and very expensive to replace. The space is used for Native cultural activities including memorials, ceremonies cultural dancing, celebrations and heritage tourism performances.
Since 2009, USDA-Rural Development has invested more than $2 billion in 226 rural Alaskan communities. These investments in housing, community facilities, business, energy, water and sewer, telecom and electric have helped to grow rural Alaska’s economy and enhance the quality of life for its residents.