The deadline to apply for rural water infrastructure funding is fast approaching.
AUDIO: Tim Helmbrecht, U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) – Rural Development (RD) this year received an ample amount of funding to assist rural communities in implementing and upgrading rural water infrastructure. The agency recently funded 54 projects in 25 five states, including three Iowa-based projects. Funding amounted to $164 million.
Acting State Director for Rural Development in Iowa Tim Helmbrecht says funding amounts are “historic,” and could benefit many Iowa communities and residents.
?More than $3 billion in direct loans is available across the nation, through September 30th. I?m excited to see how many Iowa communities and people we can help with this unprecedented funding opportunity that we have. I encourage rural community leaders and water district operators to apply now for this assistance,? Helmbrecht said.
Rural Development staff are available to offer assistance during the application process.
?We have state and field offices in Iowa that will help with the application process. We have technical assistance providers that will help with water and wastewater expertise to get that application through to completion. There?s a lot resources available here in Iowa for rural communities and rural water districts to apply and get funding before September 30th,? Helmbrecht said.
U.S. Department of Agriculture – Rural Development has ten local offices in the state of Iowa. Helmbrecht encourages community leaders and water district operators to reach out to a local office or the state office, at 515-284-4663. Resources are also available online at www.rd.usda.gov/ia.
