In recognition of Earth Day this week, USDA Rural Development is announcing financing for the City of Elgin to upgrade their water delivery system. The project will help the community secure a reliable and safe water supply.
“Many rural communities have aging water systems that are in need of repair or replacement, but they may lack the resources to do,” said Bill Davis, USDA Rural Development Acting State Director. “USDA invests in this critical infrastructure as it impacts public health, fire protection and economic prosperity. Through low-interest loans and grants, we can help financially distressed communities provide services to residents at affordable prices.”
The City of Elgin supplies water to over 640 residents and 51 commercial users. To make sure the community has a dependable water supply, it will replace non-functional water gates valves and install another 75 valves. A water main will also be installed to allow the system to loop. Therefore, if any one section of the water distribution main fails or needs repair, that section can be isolated without disrupting all users on the network. To complete the project, Elgin received a $456,000 loan and a $192,000 grant through USDA’s Water and Waste Disposal Program.
USDA Rural Development invests in small business development, essential community facilities, utility infrastructure and affordable housing. To learn more about USDA programs, please call visit http://www.rd.usda.gov/nd.