Topeka, Kansas, April 15, 2002 – The City of Meriden has received a $181,000 grant and a $1,119,000 loan from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Water and Waste Water Program for improvements to their sewage system, Rural Development State Director Chuck Banks announced today. The city has also applied to the State of Kansas for a Community Development Block Grant of $400,000 for the project. USDA Rural Development is the Federal agency responsible for developing rural communities by administering programs designed to strengthen the economy and infrastructure of rural areas.

According to Tim Rogers, Rural Development Specialist in the Lawrence USDA Rural Development office, the funds will be used for the improvement of sanitary sewer lines, replacement of manhole and pump stations, manhole rehabilitation and improvements to the existing treatment facility for the City of Meriden. Repairs are needed to alleviate the high inflow and infiltration problem with the City's current sewer system. The project will serve the city's residents, several businesses, and the local school system.

"USDA’s Water and Waste Water Program helps rural communities keep pace with the needs of their citizens by providing safe, clean drinking water and improving community infrastructure. This improves the stability of the whole area, which brings jobs to the region and enhances the quality of life of the residents," related State Director Banks.

Rural Development’s loan and grant programs 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 additional information on Rural Development’s Water and Waste Water Program, or any other programs of USDA Rural Development, please visit our website at: http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/ks/