The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development office in Virginia today highlighted an agency investment in Fiscal Year 2017 to help improve rural infrastructure for Farmville.
“Targeted investment in rural infrastructure means more jobs for rural Virginia,” said Beth Green, USDA Rural Development Virginia State Director. “The Community Facilities Direct Loan Program ensures that our rural communities have the essential community infrastructure and services necessary to spur economic growth and create jobs.”
The Town of Farmville received a $94,000 Community Facilities Direct Loan to purchase a Flail Mower Boom Tractor to clear right-of-ways in order to maintain clean highways that attract new businesses. The Town also received a $25,000 USDA Community Facilities Grant for this project.
This announcement comes as a part of Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue’s national announcement today highlighting USDA investments in Fiscal Year 2017 that will help construct or improve infrastructure and boost economic growth in rural communities.
“USDA is focused on improving rural America’s infrastructure,” Perdue said. “Investments such as the ones I’m highlighting today will improve the quality of life, create jobs, grow our economy and foster prosperity in rural areas.”
In Fiscal Year 2017, USDA used funding from the Community Facilities Direct Loan Program to invest more than $40 million in 31 projects to repair, enhance or build infrastructure. These investments were for projects such as surface transportation, aviation, ports, water and storm water resources, energy production and generation, and electricity transmission. They will benefit nearly 265,000 residents.
Virginia is just one of a handful of states announced today that received funding through this program.
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; housing; community services such as schools, public safety and health care; and high-speed internet access in rural areas. For more information, visit www.rd.usda.gov.