USDA PROVIDES FUNDING FOR WARE POLICE DEPARTMENT
Amherst, MA, February 2, 1998 -- USDA Rural Development State Director William H. Bradley joined Congressman Richard Neal in announcing a $500,000 loan and $35,000 grant to the town of Ware through Rural Development's Community Facility Program.
This funding will allow the town to renovate the former Post Office building for its conversion into the new Police Station. The proposed renovations include a public waiting area; large general office area; private offices for the Chief of Police, Sergeants and Court Officer; a training/squad room; dispatching center; and records storage. Renovations will also provide four holding cells; a general booking area; secured, evidence and narcotics storage; and a janitor's room. The new building, which is handicapped accessible, is centrally located and therefore well suited to the task of police work in Ware, which places a strong emphasis on a police presence. The police department is currently located on the first floor of the Town Hall, where it has been housed for more than 100 years. This space has been deemed substandard and ill equipped to handle the present department.
"One of the Clinton/Gore administration's top priorities is the continued investment in our local infrastructure," said Bill Bradley. "By investing in local communities such as Ware, we provide a strong backbone for economic development throughout Western Massachusetts and the United States."
Community facilities - such as health care clinics, police and fire stations - are essential to the quality of life in any rural community. Through its Community Facility Loan program, Rural Development is striving to ensure that such facilities are readily available to all rural Americans. The commitment of USDA to this effort is at the core of its mission and its promise to help build stronger, more vibrant rural communities across the nation.
Contact:
William H. Bradley
MA/RI/CT State Director
(413) 253-4302