New York State Director for Rural Development Richard Mayfield today announced that USDA has selected more than 10 projects across rural New York and is investing $62 million. This is part of a national investment of more than $1.2 billion to help rebuild and improve rural water infrastructure in 46 states.
“These investments will create economic prosperity, improve the delivery of safe drinking water, and help safeguard public health by modernizing waste disposal infrastructure in rural communities,” Mayfield said. “Under the leadership of Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue, USDA is partnering with local officials and businesses to make critical investments to help strengthen rural communities.”
USDA providing financing these water and environmental infrastructure projects through the department’s Water and Waste Disposal Loan and Grant program. The funding can be used for drinking water, stormwater drainage and waste disposal systems for rural communities with 10,000 or fewer residents.
Below are some examples of the investments USDA is making:
- City of Ogdensburg: This Rural Development investment of $9,466,000 in loan and $2,500,000 in grant will be used for improvements to the city’s aging sewer facility -- that is in need of repair to meet regulatory requirements. This project will meet the needs of 3,540 residents in the city.
- Town of Granby: This Rural Development investment of $4,300,000 in loan and $400,000 in grant will be used to construct the Town of Granby Water Service Area #7. This project will extend water service to 335 residential users who do not currently have access to safe potable water.
Eligible rural communities and water districts can apply to the Water and Waste Disposal Loan and Grant program online for funding to maintain, modernize or build water and wastewater systems. They can visit the interactive RD Apply tool, or they can apply through one of USDA Rural Development’s state or field offices.
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.