Topeka, Kansas, April 15, 2002 – The City of Soldier has received a $253,800 grant and a $97,900 loan through USDA Rural Development’s Water and Waste Water Program, according to Chuck Banks, Kansas Director for USDA Rural Development. The Administration and Congress have provided funding for this program in an effort to facilitate rural economic development. USDA Rural Development is the federal agency in charge of developing rural communities by administering a number of programs designed to strengthen the economy and infrastructure of rural areas.

According to F. Martin Fee, Rural Development Specialist in the Lawrence office, the funds will be used for the replacement of deteriorated, cast-iron water lines within the City of Soldier, construction of a new water storage tank and a new hookup to Jackson County Rural Water District #3. Nearly 12,000 linear feet of distribution line will be installed plus twenty fire hydrants and a master meter. Approximately 122 residents will benefit from the project.

"The proposed project will ensure Soldier residents have access to a clean, safe and reliable water source. USDA Rural Development’s programs strive to ensure a close semblance of the quality of life between the rural areas of Kansas and the urban," remarked State Director Banks.

Water and Waste Water loan and grant funds may be used to construct, enlarge, extend, or improve water and waste water systems in rural areas with a population of 10,000 or less. These loans can be made to nonprofit organizations, state and federally recognized Indian tribes, and public entities. Applications can be obtained through any of the USDA Rural Development offices. For more information on the Water and Waste Water Program or any other programs of USDA Rural Development, please visit our web site at: www.rurdev.usda.gov/ks