USDA Rural Development State Director, Lynne Hinrichsen, announced funding for four Kansas projects that received a total of $563,500 in financing to help rural Kansas communities.
“Rural communities and their citizens are vitally important to the state of Kansas, and its economy,” said Hinrichsen. “USDA understands the importance that essential services bring to rural communities and will continue to focus on building partnerships to enhance the quality of life in rural Kansas.”
In 2017, USDA invested $1.5 billion into rural areas through the Community Facilities Direct Loan Program for projects such as schools, libraries, municipal centers, first responder vehicles and equipment, social service buildings, recreational activities and other community needs. These investments are helping nearly 7 million rural residents.
The city of Anthony, Kan., population 2,269, received a $43,500 loan to purchase and install new storm sirens in the city. The city’s prior storm siren system was obsolete.
Frankfort Community Care Home, a non-profit organization located in Marshall County, Kan., population 10,117, received a $28,000 loan to make improvements to a building that prepares and serves meals to elderly residents primarily in Marshall County. Improvements to the building will help improve accessibility and provided needed facility maintenance.
Marion County, Kan., population 12,660, received a $202,000 loan to purchase mobile radios and dispatch equipment for the county's first responder departments, which will allow better coordination during an emergency. The new dispatch equipment is vital for compatibility between the county and other first responders.
Thrive Allen County, a non-profit organization located in the city of Iola, Kan., received a $290,000 loan to renovate an existing building located in Iola, Kansas to provide office space, meeting, and conference space for the organization. The organization supports and encourages programs, policies and resources that promote access to healthcare, healthy lifestyles, and positive community conversations that improve the well-being of residents of Allen County, Kan., population 13,371.
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, on USDA’s Community Facilities Direct Loan Program, contact a USDA Community Programs specialist:
- David Barber, Hays Office, (785) 628-3081, Ext. 444, david.barber@ks.usda.gov
- Michael Billings, Iola Office, (620) 380-3109, michael.billings@ks.usda.gov
- Tom Finger, Newton Office, (316) 282-3476, tom.finger@ks.usda.gov
- Chelsea Morris, Newton Office, (316) 282-3474, chelsea.morris@ks.usda.gov
- Austin Masters, Topeka Office, (785) 271-2731, austin.masters@ks.usda.gov