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USDA Supports Water System for Sunnyside and Prince Albert Communities

Name
Kathy Beisner
City
Mt. Savage
Release Date

USDA Supports Water System for Sunnyside and Prince Albert Communities

(Our Land. Our Water. Our Future: Let’s Preserve Them. Earth Day 2016)

Mt. Savage, MD, April 21, 2016 – Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack is celebrating Earth Day this week by announcing the funding for projects that will improve rural water quality and safety in 33 states across the country. USDA is investing $183 million in 60 water and wastewater infrastructure projects through Rural Development’s Water and Environmental Program (WEP).

“Safe and reliable water systems are essential for healthy and vibrant communities,” said USDA Rural Housing Service Administrator Tony Hernandez.  “We are pleased that the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) is contributing to this important partnership.”

Today, USDA and Maryland officials gathered at the Mt. Savage Community Park to highlight one of the 60 infrastructure projects.   A $102,000 low-interest loan and $854,000 grant will be provided to Allegany County Commissioners to help with the extension of public water from the City of Frostburg to the Sunnyside and Prince Albert communities.

Well samples have been analyzed by the Allegany County Public Health Department and some have tested positive for nitrates and coliform bacteria.  The combined efforts of the Health Department, the Allegany County Commissioners, USDA, MDE and the City of Frostburg will ensure that residents will have reliable, potable water in the future as well as adequate fire protection.

Earth Day is observed annually on April 22 to raise awareness about what individuals can do to protect vital natural resources and safeguard the environment. Since the first Earth Day celebration in 1970, the event has greatly expanded. Today, citizens and governments in more than 195 countries participate in Earth Day events.

Today, USDA also used this time to announce funding for the Town of Lonaconing.  A Community Facilities Direct Loan in the amount of $386,000 will help construct a new Town Hall.

 

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 USDA Rural Development has invested $11 billion since 2009 to start or expand 103,000 rural businesses; help 1.1 million rural residents buy homes; fund nearly 7,000 community facilities such as schools, public safety and health care facilities; finance 180,000 miles of electric transmission and distribution lines; and help bring high-speed Internet access to nearly 6 million rural residents and businesses.