Concord, NH - 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, including two towns in New Hampshire. 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.”

For example, Rural Development is providing a $4,200 grant to help the Town of Newport to purchase an emergency equipment portable pump and combi-tool set. The portable set of extrication tools will give the emergency providers greater flexibility in the extrication of individuals from vehicles by allowing first responders to get closer to a scene, which they are unable to do with their current extrication tool. The tool also provides them flexibility when dealing with newer car models. The portable tool will serve as a back-up when the larger extrication tool is committed to another incident.

Rural Development is providing a grant of $23,150 to the Town of Lincoln. They plan to use these funds to make energy efficiency improvements to the community center, by replacing windows and upgrading insulation. The community center plays a vital role in Lincoln, serving as a daycare facility for Lin-Wood Childcare Center, a non-profit daycare, and as the Lin-Wood Area Senior Services Program facility where they provide meals on wheels and congregate meals. The center is home to the Lincoln-Woodstock Food Pantry, and serves as the community’s emergency shelter. 

The funding announced today 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. A complete list of projects funded can be found at http://www.usda.gov/wps/portal/usdahome .

USDA Rural Development’s mission is to increase economic opportunity and improve the quality of life in Rural America.  This is done by providing financial and technical assistance to foster growth and new opportunities for business development, home ownership, and critical community and technology infrastructure.  To learn more about USDA Rural Development programs visit the web site at http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/vt.