Agriculture Secretary Vilsack Announces Water System Infrastructure Projects to Improve Health and Sanitation in Rural Communities

Press Release

Projects to Provide Construction Jobs and Needed Rural Infrastructure in 18 States

Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack today announced the funding of water and environmental projects designed to protect public health and the environment by improving water quality and public sanitation services in 18 states. The projects, which are funded through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, and with regular USDA Water and Environmental Program funds, are intended to provide jobs while improving rural America's infrastructure.

"These investments in water and wastewater infrastructure will help deliver safe drinking water and protect the environment throughout rural America," said Vilsack. "The projects advance the Obama Administration's economic recovery goals to rebuild the nation's infrastructure and they will create jobs in states throughout the country."

For example, in rural Michigan, the Cass County Regional Water System will receive a $10.5 million loan to provide reliable water service and improved fire protection for residents and businesses in four townships. The project will extend water service and fire protection to over 1,800 dwelling units. This funding will provide fire hydrants and safe water, and will create or save an estimated 160 jobs.

In rural Pennsylvania, North Fayette County Municipal Authority has been selected to receive funds to provide safe drinking water to the community. Contaminants such as iron and manganese have been detected in well water at concentrations exceeding EPA drinking water standards.

Altogether, USDA Rural Development is today announcing $96.5 million in funding assistance to 28 water and wastewater infrastructure projects in local communities across the country through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (Recovery Act) and other Water and Environmental Program funding. Today's announcement includes $74.6 million in Recovery Act funding. To date, USDA has announced $2.57 billion in Recovery Act funds for water and environmental projects.

The Recovery Act (ARRA) funding announced today is being administered by USDA Rural Development's Water and Environmental Program which provides loans and grants to ensure that the necessary investments are made in water and wastewater infrastructure to deliver safe drinking water and protect the environment in rural areas.

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