USDA announces rural grant programs

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Rural Development program in April announced several loan and grant programs that may assist small municipalities.

The Community Facilities Program provides loans and grants to rural communities with populations below 20,000 for needs such as elementary schools, public safety complexes, fire trucks and communications equipment.

The Water and Waste Disposal Program, limited to towns of fewer than 10,000 residents, provides loans and grants for purposes including water and sewer lines, wastewater treatment plants and water storage tanks.

The Housing Preservation Grant Program provides grants for the repair or rehabilitation of low-income housing.

The Rural Enterprise Grant Program facilitates the development of small and emerging rural businesses and funds distance learning and adult education programs.

For more information, visit www.rurdev.usda.gov/RD_Grants.html or contact one of the three Rural Development offices in Massachusetts:
• 195 Russell St., B7, Hadley; (413) 585-1000, ext. 4
• 52 Boyden Road, Holden; (508) 829-4477, ext. 4
• 15 Cranberry Highway, Wareham; (508) 295-5151, ext. 3