NEW GLARUS, Wisc., July 29, 2024 – USDA Under Secretary for Rural Development Dr. Basil Gooden will join State Director Julie Lassa and Village of New Glarus officials to announce a $2.3 million water investment that will increase quality and capacity for local community facilities, businesses and residents.
"The Biden-Harris Administration and USDA are committed to strengthening the local infrastructure and economy in rural areas across the nation," Under Secretary Gooden said. "USDA is proud to partner with the Village of New Glarus to increase the capacity of its water system to ensure people and businesses can continue to benefit from clean water for years to come.”
When traveling through south central Wisconsin, travelers may be so lucky to stumble upon the quaint little Village of New Glarus – endearingly referred to by the locals as “America’s Little Switzerland!” Alpine-style architecture, ethnic festivals and Swiss delicacies have helped this area maintain its Swiss charm since colonization in 1845 and incorporation as a Village in 1901 – and the New Glarus Village Hall is no exception.
Under Secretary Dr. Gooden was joined by Village of New Glarus officials to highlight a $2.3 million loan invested through USDA Rural Development’s Water and Waste Disposal Loan and Grant program to build a new, concrete, above-ground water storage tank and make essential upgrades to corresponding utility communications and data systems. The new tank is expected to increase the Village’s water capacity by 300,000 gallons. Watermain piping and electrical connections and communication improvements will be made at existing wells, booster station, reservoir, and public works garage.
Former Village Chamber Director Bekah Stauffacher highlighted how these investments have wide-ranging benefits—they are good for the environment, for local businesses and for the health and well-being of the entire community. Local business owner of Brenda’s Blumenladen flower shop, Brenda Siegenthaler, furthered this expressed this importance by highlighting the impact that water quality and capacity have on the health of her flowers and success of her business. Local plant manager for Jacks Links Matt Re discussed the impact this increased water capacity will have on their local processing facility.
Dr. Gooden’s visit ended with a personalized tour by former Village Chamber Director Stauffacher of local businesses, including Brenda’s Blumenladen, Rusty Raven local gifts, Hutch n Hide barn door cabinetry, New Glarus Bakery, and the Jacks Links factory.
Background: Water and Waste Disposal Loans and Grants
Through projects financed by USDA’s Water and Waste Disposal Loans, Grants and Loan Guarantees, the agency is helping state and local governments, private nonprofits and federally recognized Tribes build and improve rural wastewater systems. Funding helps enable rural communities to expand access to clean and reliable drinking water, sanitary waste disposal and storm water drainage.
For more information, visit www.rd.usda.gov/wi or contact the nearest USDA Rural Development office.
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. Visit the Rural Data Gateway to learn how and where these investments are impacting rural America.
To subscribe to USDA Rural Development updates in Wisconsin, visit the GovDelivery subscriber page.
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