USDA Invests $266M to Improve Rural Communities Facilities

The USDA is providing millions for rural community services. USDA undersecretary for rural development, Justin Maxson, announced the funding Tuesday. USDA will invest $266 million to build and improve critical community facilities to benefit nearly three million rural residents in 16 states and Puerto Rico.

This funding includes $156 million to support health-care-related improvements and emergency response services that will benefit nearly one million rural residents in nine states. Included in that is a $4 million loan for the North Olympic Healthcare Network, which the USDA will result in saving for the 19,000 rural Washington clients. Assistance will go to projects in Alabama, California, Georgia, Iowa, Illinois, Kansas, Michigan, Missouri, New Jersey, North Carolina, New York, Ohio, South Dakota, Virginia, Vermont and Puerto Rico.

In Washington, the North Olympic Healthcare Network will use a $4 million loan to purchase the building it currently leases to provide community health services. Ownership will enable the network to lower costs and provide more services to its clients, most of whom are low-income or lack health insurance. This project will benefit more than 19,000 rural residents.

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