USDA Rural Development Acting State Director Harriet Cannon joined City of Martin Mayor Randy Brundige today in announcing two projects totaling over $1.3 million.
“USDA Rural Development is excited to be a part of a growing rural Tennessee,” Cannon said. “The City of Martin has been diligent in seeking USDA RD grants and loans in an effort to improve the community.”
The city is receiving a $1.3 million Community Facilities Direct Loan to renovate a building to add a third fire station which will increase fire protection and lower the ISO rating for citizens, businesses and industry in the area. They are also receiving a Community Facilities Grant in the amount of $45,000 to purchase a new phone Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) system. This system will be installed in all city buildings including fire stations, police station, public works, city hall, utilities, library and senior center to allow for interoffice communications between all departments.
Others participating in the event include Congressman David Kustoff Field Representative Heather Waggoner, Weakley County Mayor Jake Bynum, Martin Fire Chief Jamie Summers, USDA Area Director Joel Howard, USDA Area Specialists Tyler Hayes and Brandon Orr.
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; homeownership; community services such as schools, public safety and health care; and high-speed internet access in rural areas.
For more information on USDA Rural Development programs available in Northwest Tennessee contact the Union City Area Office at 731-885-6480 x 4. Visit us online at www.rd.usda.gov/TN.