WASHINGTON, D.C. — The United States Department of Agriculture, USDA, is investing $1.2 billion to help rebuild and improve rural water infrastructure for 936,000 rural Americans living in 46 states.
“Under the leadership of Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue, USDA is committed to being a strong partner to rural communities in building prosperity through modern water infrastructure.” “Investing in infrastructure benefits the rural economy and the well-being of our environment for future generations to enjoy,” Denise Lovelady, USDA Rural Development State Director for Maryland and Delaware, said.
“Rural Development’s programs are designed to help rural communities address their infrastructure needs and forge a path towards greater prosperity.” USDA is providing financing for 234 water and environmental infrastructure projects through the Water and Waste Disposal Loan and Grant program.
Below are some examples of the investments USDA is making in Maryland: • Queenstown is receiving a $1,828,000 loan and $1,358,000 grant to make improvements to its water system.
The existing water tower will be replaced, the disinfection system will be upgraded, and a new well and treatment facility will be built.
• The Town of Oxford will use a $493,000 loan and $1,735,000 grant to cover additional costs related to upgrading its wastewater treatment plant.
• The Somerset County Sanitary District Inc. will receive a $83,000 loan and $2,970,000 grant to construct a wastewater treatment plant for the Smith Island communities of Ewell, Rhodes Point and Tylerton.
Additional funding for this project includes an existing $30,000 USDA SEARCH Grant, a $6,117,341 investment from the State of Maryland, and an applicant contribution of $61,941.
• Worcester County will use a $170,000 loan and $80,000 grant to cover a cost over-run to construct a pipeline from the recently upgraded Mystic Harbor wastewater treatment facility.
Increasing investments in rural infrastructure is a key recommendation of the task force.