Delaware Delegation Hails USDA Rural Development Earth Day Announcement to Improve Local Water Quality

WASHINGTON –Today, Sens. Tom Carper and Chris Coons, and Rep. John Carney (all D-Del.) hailed the announcement of key federal resources to help improve water and wastewater service and benefit the environment in the Town of Laurel.  

In observation of Earth Day later this week, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development division announced the Town of Laurel will receive a loan of $2,778,000 and grant award of $1,208,000, as part of more than $105 million in federal resources dedicated to fund water, wastewater and community facilities projects across the country.  

“Particularly in these challenging economic times, many small towns, like Laurel, can’t afford needed upgrades to drinking water and wastewater treatment facilities,” said the Delegation. “Fortunately, today’s announcement means residents of Laurel and surrounding areas will have more access to safe, reliable drinking water, and a wastewater treatment facility better able to meet the needs of a growing community and economy. Investment in these types of projects improves our environment, expands communities’ economic opportunities and gives families up and down the First State a chance for a healthier future.”  

In all, 53 projects across the nation will be highlighted. Earth Day is observed annually on April 22 to raise awareness about the role each person can play to protect vital natural resources and safeguard the environment. Since the first Earth Day celebration in 1970, the event has expanded to include participation by citizens and governments in more than 195 countries.  

USDA, through its Rural Development mission area, administers and manages more than 40 housing, business and community infrastructure and facility programs through a network of national state and local offices. Agency programs are designed to improve the economic stability of rural communities, businesses, residents, farmers and ranchers and improve the quality of life in rural America. Rural Development has an existing portfolio of more than $149 billion in loans and loan guarantees. Funding for each project is contingent upon the recipient meeting the terms of the loan, grant, or loan/grant agreement.  

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