USDA Deputy Undersecretary Doug O’Brien today announced the support for a three-mile-interconnect from the Village of Conway’s wastewater collection system to the North Conway Water Precinct’s Wastewater Treatment Plant. Today’s announcement is part of Secretary Vilsack’s Earth Day announcement last week which highlighted support of 54 projects in 33 states that will improve water and wastewater services and benefit the environment across the country.
“It is a privilege for USDA to partner with the Conway Village Fire District, the Congressional delegation from New Hampshire and Maine, state and local officials and the residents of this community to see this project realized,” said O’Brien. “Investments in water and wastewater improvements not only help the community and its residents with safe water supplies, but will promote stability and economic growth.”
“In order for Conway’s economy to thrive, it must have the infrastructure to serve the thousands of tourists that flock to it each year for world-class outdoor recreation, and I’m pleased the Department of Agriculture has chosen Conway for this award,” Shaheen said. “With the construction of the new pipeline supported by this award, Conway will be able to lift a building moratorium that has placed a stranglehold on its economy. At the same time, the Saco River’s natural habitat will be protected, ensuring that it remains a popular tourist destination and important piece of the local economy.”
As a result of this $12.2 million investment, effluent that was affecting the Saco River for 1.5 miles beyond the discharge point will stop. Development projects that had been hindered due to their impact on water quality can move forward and new connections can be considered.
USDA Rural Development State Director, Molly Lambert, joined the chorus of praise for the community’s persistence in achieving this result. She stated, “This partnership among federal, state and local agencies and officials is a tribute to the power of working together. This project, in addition to assuring a quality wastewater system to serve the residents of Conway, will also promote recreation, tourism and economic opportunities that will add to the health and sustainability of this region for decades to come.”
USDA, through its Rural Development mission area, administers and manages housing, business and community infrastructure and facility programs through a national network of state and local offices. Rural Development has an existing portfolio of more than $165 billion in affordable 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 America. Visit http://www.rurdev.usda.gov for additional information about the agency's programs.