AGRICULTURE SECRETARY VILSACK ANNOUNCES $66.4 MILLION FOR COMMUNITY FACILITIES PROJECTS IN RURAL AREAS

 33 States Benefit from Recovery Act Projects Such as Libraries, Food Distribution Centers, Equipment for First Responders

 WASHINGTON, July 8, 2009 — Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack today announced the selection of nearly $66.4 million in essential community facilities projects in 33 states throughout the country that are being funded immediately with federal funds provided through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.  This is the third wave of Recovery Act community facilities investments announced by USDA. 

“Communities throughout the country are benefiting from the Recovery Act, and by building or upgrading facilities such as libraries, public buildings and community centers, we are investing in the future of rural America,” Vilsack said. “These projects will advance the Administration's efforts to jumpstart the economy by creating jobs and economic development opportunities in hundreds of small towns.”

In addition to the $66.4 million that USDA Rural Development is providing for the 345 projects announced today, recipients have raised $45 million from other sources. 

For example, Rural Development is providing a $355,000 loan and $20,000 grant for the City of Ionia for a new pumper fire truck equipped with a compressed air foam system and fitted with a 750-gallon tank.  Approximately 10,569 rural residents will benefit.

Rural Development also provided a $30,000 grant to the Village of Baraga for new turn out gear and water rescue equipment.  The current equipment does not meet national fire protection standards.  The fire department provides service to 110 square miles and serves approximately 3,250 rural residents.

The funding announced today is being 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 recognized Indian tribes.

 Funding of individual recipients is contingent upon their meeting the terms of the loan or grant agreement. More information about USDA Rural Development can be found at www.rurdev.usda.gov.

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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