USDA Deputy Under Secretary for Rural Development Bette Brand highlighted the department's investments in 2020 that are building prosperity and strengthening the nation's rural businesses and communities.
"Under the leadership of President Donald J. Trump and Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue, USDA invested a record $40 billion in rural communities in 2020," Brand said. "This assistance is helping increase economic opportunities and improving the quality of life for rural residents across the 50 states and all U.S. territories.
Brand added, "USDA responded with urgency to help those affected by the COVID-19 global pandemic. We worked to bring high-speed internet capacity, modern community facilities, and upgraded water and wastewater infrastructure to rural areas. We helped provide homeownership opportunities and reliable electricity. We invested in businesses and family-supporting jobs, because when rural America thrives, all of America thrives."
Total investment in rural Michigan communities in Fiscal Year (FY) 2020 was more than $1.1 billion.
"There were a number of significant investments across the spectrum of USDA programs, but what stands out is the surge in telecommunications and electric infrastructure investment," said USDA Rural Development state director for Michigan Jason Allen. "Combine that with water, sewer, housing, and business investments and 2020 was truly a landmark year for rural Michigan communities."
Below is a summary of USDA's accomplishments in Michigan:
Michigan received more than $69 million in 11 telecommunications and electric investments through the ReConnect Pilot Program, the Telecom Infrastructure and Community Connect programs. These investments benefitted thousands of residents from the state's southern border into the Upper Peninsula.
- Michigan received more than $138 million in 65 investments to expand access to safe drinking water and improve wastewater management systems. These investments will improve the reliability of the local water supply for thousands of Michiganders.
- Michigan received more than $25 million in 129 investments through the Community Facilities Programs supporting rural infrastructure projects such as roads, airports and transportation improvements.
- Michigan received more than $36 million to assist 127 rural businesses through the Business and Industry (B&I) Loan Guarantee Program and the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) for energy efficiency improvements, renewable energy systems, and energy development assistance in rural businesses. Included in this total are funds provided through the CARES Act to save rural jobs.
- Michigan received more than $794 million in direct and guaranteed loans through Single Family Housing Programs to help 6,089 low- and moderate-income families buy homes and/or repair homes across rural Michigan.
- Michigan received more than $19 million for safe, affordable rural housing through the Multi-Family Housing Program.
Photo Credit: USDA
Categories: Michigan, Government & Policy