NEWS RELEASE

United States Department of Agriculture • Rural Development

1221 College Park Drive, Suite 200, Dover, DE  19904

Phone: (302) 857-3580 • Fax: (302) 857-3640 • TDD: (302) 857-3585 • Web: http://www.rurdev.usda.gov

USDA Supports Delaware City Community Center

Delaware City, July 20, 2007 – Formerly the home of the Delaware City Elementary School, Congressman Michael Castle and USDA Rural Development State Director Marlene Elliott announced funding to support the 1930’s building that is now used as the City’s Community Center.

            "USDA's investment in the Delaware City Community Center is not just about bricks and mortar -- it's about investing in the heart and soul of a city,” said Congressman Castle.  “Places like this are of tremendous value to any community, and having this library and youth center under one roof is a significant step in teaching our children the importance of both education and fitness."

The Community Center underwent major rehabilitation work approximately 5 years ago to create space and improve the HVAC and electrical systems.  Some minor roof repairs were completed at that time but leaks have since developed resulting in damaged ceiling tiles and carpet.  Rural Development is providing a loan in the amount of $234,000 and a grant in the amount of $41,250 through the agency’s Community Facility program to replace the flat roof section of the Community Center.

“Over the past six years, USDA Rural Development has had an opportunity to be of assistance to this community by returning $395,000 of the people’s money,” said Elliott.  “It is through our programs that support job creation and community revitalization that enable a small town to stay grounded on its past and prepared to meet the challenges of tomorrow.” 

The Community Center is located in the Delaware City Historic District and is the home of the City Library, Youth Center and a Day Care.  Numerous organizations and community groups use the center for meetings and practices serving an average of 50 to 75 people per day.

“Small towns struggle to be able to offer their citizens facilities like this – a safe place for their children to go after school and a modern library with access to the Internet and a world of books,” said Mayor Cordelia W. (Dee) Bennett.  “Without this support from USDA Rural Development, Delaware City would be at risk of losing these institutions which are so important to our identity as a community.”

 USDA Rural Development is committed to the future of rural communities.  Last year, the agency returned over $53 million to rural Delaware.  They have over 40 programs that support agriculture, business opportunities, home ownership, home repair, rental housing, broadband technology, public safety, health care, education, social and cultural needs and energy related projects.  Additional information on rural programs is available by calling their State Office at (302) 857-3580 or by visiting their website at www.rurdev.usda.gov.

###

“USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer and lender.”

To file a complaint of discrimination write USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Avenue, S.W.,

 Washington, D.C. 20250-9410, or call (800) 795-3272 (voice), or (202) 720-6382 (TDD).