NEWS RELEASE

USDA funds will help complete sewer system in Millville

            Georgetown, DE May 15, 2007 – USDA Rural Development State Director Marlene Elliott announced $5 million in federal funding today to help complete the installation of a wastewater system in Sussex County, a project that will eliminate septic systems and improve the surrounding environment.

Speaking at the Sussex County Council meeting in Georgetown, Elliott announced the funding award for an ongoing project that will serve the residents of the Town of Millville and nearby communities.

“Rural Development is pleased to be one of many partners that are supporting this project financially,” Elliott said.  “The funding announced today is a return of the people’s money coming back home to Sussex County to improve the quality of life for the residents and to help protect the environment around them.”   

            The project has been funded in multi-phases and is expected to cost $34 million. The State of Delaware has invested $10.5 million; Sussex County Council has committed $500,000; and there is strong support from local developers who are providing $13 million.  Rural Development’s total investment in the project is $10 million. The agency provided the first $5 million installment last year. 

            Sussex County Council is the recipient of the federal funding and is overseeing the construction of the project that is expected to reach more than 1,300 homes. The project will serve residents in the area and will help protect the sensitive Inland Bays.  All of the homes in the area are served by on-site septic systems, many of which are located along or near White Creek, a tributary of the Indian River Bay.

“This loan and grant are essential pieces to the funding puzzle for a project we believe will improve the environment and benefit the residents of the Millville area,” said Sussex County Administrator David B. Baker. “The federal funds, along with financial support from the State of Delaware, the development community and the Sussex County Council, will ensure that this project moves forward in such a way that is affordable for all users.”

            Baker added, “It’s that cooperative spirit that allows such important projects to go from just an idea to something that is real and has a tangible effect on the community.”  Construction began on the project last summer and is expected to be completed by July 2008.  

            USDA Rural Development has more than 40 programs that involve homeownership opportunities, rental housing, home repair, business development, community facilities and community infrastructure.  Last year, the agency returned $53.9 million to rural Delaware.  To learn more about the agency and the programs that they offer, visit our website at www.rurdev.usda.gov or call our state office located in Dover at (302) 857-3580.

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