U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) State Director for Colorado, Armando Valdez, today announced that USDA is investing $6.2 million to build and improve critical rural infrastructure in rural Colorado through the Water and Waste Disposal Loan and Grant Program. The funding will be used to construct a new water treatment plant.
“By investing in rural infrastructure, we ensure a healthy and safe water supply and provide greater efficiency for the town’s operation. This increases the economic vitality of our rural communities and improving the quality of life for future generations. Springfield and Southeast Colorado offer value and importance as much as every other part of Colorado. This investment by the Town of Springfield and USDA is the belief in opportunity for this community,” said Valdez.
The new plant will allow water from the town’s best-producing wells to be brought to a central location for chlorination and radium and uranium treatment via filters. It will also allow for future water treatment expansion to meet increasing demand. The project will further reduce operating costs by replacing the remaining cast-iron pipe with PVC to reduce the occurrence of breaks in the line.
Valdez and members of his staff are also in town for a “Let’s Talk Shop” Event highlighting the 70+ programs the agency has available to help with affordable housing, business and economic development, and community infrastructure.
Under the Biden-Harris Administration, USDA Rural Development provides loans and grants to help expand economic opportunities, create jobs, and improve the quality of life for millions of Americans 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, tribal and high-poverty areas. For more information in Colorado, visit www.rd.usda.gov/co.