The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced Wednesday that the Plymouth Village Water and Sewer District will receive a $605,000 grant and $740,000 loan to fund essential improvements to its wastewater collection system.
Plymouth’s wastewater system serves the people of Plymouth as well as families and businesses in Holderness. Since March 2012, the system has experienced seven force main failures that required emergency repairs to prevent potential contamination of the Pemi-Baker River. USDA Rural Development funds will finance the necessary replacement of 4300 feet of outdated piping.
"Rural Development grants and low interest loans will help keep user rates manageable while facilitating much-needed infrastructure upgrades," said USDA Rural Development Vermont and New Hampshire State Director Ted Brady. "By investing in Plymouth’s water infrastructure, Rural Development is investing in the physical health of Plymouth’s communities and the environmental safety of natural waterways such as Plymouth’s Pemi- Baker River."
"The District has applied for and has been approved for a loan and grant from the USDA Water and Waste Water Disposal Program to fund the sewer line replacement projects slated for this summer, " said Plymouth Commissioner Chair Judith D’Aleo. "The Commissioners are greatly appreciative of the work of USDA Rural Development and pleased that this project will be cost effective for the District rate payers. "
The USDA Rural Development Water and Wastewater Disposal Loan and Grant Program (WEP) provides loans and grants for the development, extension, repair or improvement of water and wastewater systems, including solid waste disposal and storm drainage in rural communities with a population of 10,000 people or less.
President Obama’s plan for rural America has brought about historic investment and resulted in stronger rural communities. Under the President’s leadership, these investments in housing, community facilities, businesses and infrastructure have empowered rural America to continue leading the way – strengthening America’s economy, small towns and rural communities. USDA’s investments in rural communities support the rural way of life that stands as the backbone of our American values.
USDA, through its RD mission area, administers and manages housing, business and community infrastructure programs through a national network of state and local offices. Rural Development has an active portfolio of more than $197 billion in loans and loan guarantees. These programs are designed to improve the economic stability of rural communities, businesses, residents, farmers and ranchers and improve the quality of life in rural areas. For more information on Rural Development visit the Vermont/New Hampshire Rural Development Website (www.rurdev.usda.gov/nh-vtHome.html) or contact USDA RD at (802) 828-6000.