AGRICULTURE SECRETARY VILSACK ANNOUNCES $13.1 MILLION IN RECOVERY ACT PROJECTS IN RURAL AREAS

Michigan receives $4,965,000 for projects in Kalamazoo, Midland and Missaukee counties

             WASHINGTON, November, 4, 2009 - Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack today announced the selection of $13.1 million in community facilities projects that are being funded through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. USDA has announced more than $268 million in Recovery Act funding for community facility projects to date.

 “The Obama Administration is committed to revitalizing rural communities and bringing quality facilities such as hospitals, public buildings and community centers to small towns and cities that can benefit from new construction or upgrades to existing ones,” Vilsack said.

             Three Michigan projects are included in today’s announcement

• The Comstock Community Center in Kalamazoo County received a $1,946,000 loan to purchase a building for additional space to expand health, social and educational enrichment programs.
• Jerome Township in Midland County received a $2,569,000 loan and $135,000 grant for the construction of a fire station and town hall that utilizes ‘green’ construction methods, design and materials.
• Missaukee County received a $240,000 loan and $75,000 grant for heating systems in four county buildings.

 In addition to the $13.1 million that USDA Rural Development is providing to fund the 14 projects announced today, recipients will combine that funding with $2.6 million from other sources. 

The funding announced today is being provided through USDA Rural Development’s Community Facilities program, which helps finance essential community facilities for public use in rural areas. These facilities include childcare centers, hospitals, medical clinics, assisted living facilities, fire and rescue stations, police stations, community centers, public buildings and transportation. Through this program, USDA ensures that such facilities are available to all rural residents. These funds are available to public bodies, non-profit organizations and federally recognized Indian tribes.

             President Obama signed The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 into law on Feb. 17, 2009. It is designed to jumpstart the nation’s economy, create or save millions of jobs and put a down payment on addressing long-neglected challenges so our country can thrive in the 21st century. The Act includes measures to modernize our nation’s infrastructure, enhance energy independence, expand educational opportunities, preserve and improve affordable health care, provide tax relief, and protect those in greatest need.

            More information about USDA’s Recovery Act efforts is available at www.usda.gov/recovery.  More information about the Federal government's efforts on the Recovery Act is available at www.recovery.gov.

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