State Director for Rural Development John Rounsaville today announced that USDA is investing $192 million in 71 projects located across 29 states to improve rural water infrastructure.
USDA is making the $192 million investment through the Water and Waste Disposal Loan and Grant program. Rural communities, water districts and other eligible entities can use the funds for drinking water, stormwater drainage and waste disposal systems in rural communities with 10,000 or fewer residents.
In Mississippi, the High Hill Water Association in Scott County was awarded a combination of loans and grants totaling $691,000, which will be used to construct a backup water supply well. One of the association's two wells has been in service for more than 46 years and has begun to have significant maintenance problems that cause periods of down time, since the system does not have elevated storage. The resulting down time caused water outages for customers served by that well. This project will provide an uninterrupted water supply at adequate pressure for the water customers, even during peak usage periods.
Congress appropriated $2.9 billion for USDA Water and Environmental Program loans and grants in fiscal year 2019. USDA will make additional funding announcements in coming weeks.
View the interactive RD Apply tool or contact one of USDA Rural Development’s state or field offices for application or eligibility information.
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 facilities such as schools, public safety and health care; and high-speed internet access in rural areas. For more information, visit www.rd.usda.gov.