USDA Announces Investment to Benefit Rural Residents

USDA program funds Royal Center sewer project

The United States Department of Agriculture Rural Development State Director for Indiana Michael Dora has announced more than $5.2 million in investment to redevelop rural water and wastewater infrastructure for nearly 7,000 Indiana residents. Rensselaer and Troy will each get significant loans as part of the initiative.

The city of Rensselaer will get a $3.4 million loan and a $1.7 million grant to connect three unserved areas of the city to the sewer system and to replace the main lift station. Officials say the project will benefit 5,859 residents. 

The town of Troy will receive a $182,000 loan to provide additional financing to build a new water treatment plant, install booster pumps and related appurtenances. The town will also contribute $50,000 toward the project. 

 “Modern and reliable infrastructure is essential to the growth and development of rural Indiana communities,” Dora said in a news release. “These projects ensure the continuation of safe, sanitary, water/wastewater services and allow for economic prosperity.”

USDA is working with local partners nationwide to provide funding for 49 water and environmental infrastructure projects. The finances are being provided through the Water and Waste Disposal Loan and Grant program. Funds from the program can be used for drinking water, stormwater drainage and waste disposal systems for rural communities with 10,000 or fewer residents.