@@United States Department of Agriculture ♦ Rural Development in Maine ♦ 967 Illinois Ave, Suite 4

Bangor, ME 04402-0405 ♦Voice (207) 990-9160 ♦ Email: Emily.Cannon@me.usda.gov ♦

Web: www.rurdev.usda.gov/me

CONTACT:

Emily Cannon (207) 990-9175

Rural Development, Public Affairs

Bingham Water District Selected to Receive
$1 Million for Major Upgrades to Water System

BANGOR, November 29, 2012 – USDA Rural Development State Director Virginia Manuel has announced funding in the amount of $1 million to Bingham Water District.

The $1 million consists of a Water and Waste Disposal Direct Loan of $600,000 and Grant of $400,000 to upgrade the Bingham Water District’s distribution system by replacing old antiquated water mains. The replacement of these mains will improve operating efficiencies, flow and reliability of the system.

USDA Rural Development State Director Virginia Manuel said, “This important investment of USDA Rural Development funds into a rural water system ensures the systems integrity and reliability for the town. The major upgrades made possible by these funds will ensure continued access to safe, clean, quality drinking water for its users, enhancing the quality of life for Bingham residents.”

Bingham Water District Chair of the Board of Trustees John Lord said, “This project will ensure clean, safe drinking water and improve public safety by supplying a greater volume and pressure of water for fire suppression.”

USDA Rural Development has Area Offices located in Presque Isle, Bangor, Lewiston, and Scarborough, as well as a State Office, located in Bangor. There are 64 employees working to deliver the agency’s Housing, Business, and Community Programs, which are designed to improve the economic stability of rural communities, businesses, residents, and farmers, and improve the quality of life in rural Maine. Further information on rural programs is available at a local USDA Rural Development office or by visiting USDA Rural Development's web site at http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/me.