USDA Announces $17 Million to Upgrade Rural Water Infrastructure, Protect Public Health and the Environment
SYRACUSE, July 16, 2018 – New York Rural Development State Director, Richard Mayfield today announced that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is investing $17.8 million in 7 infrastructure projects to upgrade water and wastewater systems and service in rural NY communities. Nationwide, investments are being made in 35 states, supporting 103 projects, totaling $267 million to improve the quality of life, protect the environment and create rural prosperity.
“Robust, modern infrastructure is foundational for quality of life and economic opportunity – no matter what zip code you live in,” Mayfield said. “Under Secretary Perdue’s leadership, USDA is committed to being a strong partner in addressing rural infrastructure needs to support a more prosperous future in rural communities.” Today’s funding announcement continues the Department’s efforts to partner with local leaders to address threats to health and our environment by building reliable infrastructure.
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Town of Canadice – $1 million in loan/ $200,000 in grant funding. Funds will be used to provide public water service to 1,183 households.
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Town of Oakfield – $236,000 in loan / $691,000 in grant funding. Funds will be used to create Water District #10 in the Town of Oakfield and extend water service to 14 residential users.
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Town of Portland -- $2.4 million in loan / $112,000 in grant funding. Funds will be used to replace some of the existing water mains in the town. 622 residential users and 2 non-residential users will benefit from this investment.
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Town of Ripley - $639,000 in loan / $750,000 in grant. Funds will be used to finance the construction of a water distribution system, thereby eliminating public health risks associated with water quality.
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Town of Alexander -- $2.7 million in loan / $2.2 million in grant. Funds will be used to create Water District #5 in the town. Water service will be extended to 124 residential users and 3 non-residential users.
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Town of Barre -- $708,000 in loan / $493,000 in grant. Funds will be used to finance Water District #9 in the town. This project will extend water service to 42 residential users and 1 commercial user.
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Town of Watson -- $4.3 million in loan / $2.1 million in grant. Funds will be used to expand water system access to 249 residential users that currently do not have safe potable water.
These loans and grants are being awarded through USDA’s Water and Waste Disposal Loan and Grant program. The funds can be used to finance drinking water, storm water drainage and waste disposal systems for rural communities with 10,000 or fewer residents.
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.