USDA Provides Funds to Improve Rural Texas Water and Waste Infrastructure
BAIRD, Texas – August 4, 2015 – (RealEstateRama) — USDA Rural Utilities Service Administrator Brandon McBride today announced $42 million for 16 projects to build and improve water and wastewater infrastructure in rural communities across Texas.
“Every rural home, business, school and essential community facility needs access to modern, reliable and affordable water and wastewater infrastructure,” McBride said. “Quality water and waste services are vital to the health and economic viability of rural communities.”
The investments were highlighted today at an event in Baird, Texas, where community members joined USDA officials to celebrate the community’s achievement. USDA Rural Development provided the city of Baird a $3.3 million loan and a $500,000 grant to replace its wastewater treatment plant.
USDA provides funding for water and wastewater facilities in rural communities with populations of 10,000 or less. Since 2009, USDA has invested $469 million in water and waste infrastructure that will improve the quality of life for nearly 650,000 rural Texans.
Today’s announcement is the result of “Build-Out Texas,” a special USDA initiative to improve critical infrastructure across the state. Since the initiative’s launch in March, $79 million in loans and grants have been awarded to fund 31 projects that will benefit 108,000 rural Texas residents. The initiative’s continued momentum demonstrates Rural Development’s dedication to improving the quality of life in rural communities. Visit the Rural Development website to learn more about funding opportunities in Texas.
Several projects announced today are being funded by USDA SEARCH(Special Evaluation Assistance for Rural Communities and Households) grants. This aid helps small rural communities with predevelopment feasibility studies and technical assistance on proposed water and waste disposal projects. This work is an important first step for these communities to obtain modern, reliable services to better meet the needs of their residents.
View the complete list of Texas communities receiving funding, which is contingent on the recipients meeting the terms of the loan and/or grant agreements.
President Obama’s historic investments in rural America have made our rural communities stronger. Under his leadership, these investments in housing, community facilities, businesses and infrastructure have empowered rural America to continue leading the way – strengthening America’s economy, small towns and rural communities.
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Contact: Anne Mayberry
(202) 690-1756
