Biden-Harris Administration Delivers $27.5 Million to National Rural Water Association in Duncan

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, USDA Rural Development State Director for Oklahoma, Kenneth Corn, announced more than $27.5 million in grant awards to the National Rural Water Association (NRWA) in Duncan to assist in the organization's platform to provide assistance in safe and accessible drinking water in rural water districts across the United States. The investment in NRWA is part of President Biden and Vice President Harris' Investing in America agenda to strengthen critical infrastructure needs in rural America.

Funding for this project is being made available through USDA's Water and Waste Disposal Technical Assistance and Training Grants, 2022 Federally declared Disaster Areas via the USDA's Water and Waste Grant Program, and USDA's Water and Waste Disposal Revolving Loan Fund. The $27,510,907 in grant funds provided to NRWA will allow the Oklahoma-based nonprofit to distribute capital assistance, technical assistance, energy assessments, disaster aide, provide short-term financing and more to hundreds of rural water districts located across the United States.

"President Biden and Vice President Harris believe that the backbone of America's economic engine runs through Rural America, but that isn't possible without safeguarding our drinking water for these communities," Corn said. "So, it is a distinct pleasure of mine to be here in Duncan today with The National Rural Water Association, as they are an outstanding partner in delivering on this Administration's priorities of securing this critical infrastructure item. I know that the NRWA will be able to capitalize on this investment to improve on water safety and quality, as they are a key strategic stakeholder with rural water districts all over the United States."

USDA Rural Development provides loans and grants to help expand economic opportunities, create jobs and improve the quality of life for millions of Americans in rural areas. This assistance supports infrastructure improvements; business development; housing; community facilities such as schools, public safety and health care; and high-speed internet access in rural, Tribal and high-poverty areas. Visit the Rural Data Gateway to learn how and where these investments are impacting rural America. For more information, visit www.rd.usda.gov.

SOURCE: USDA