SCHUMER ANNOUNCES OVER $1 MILLION IN RURAL ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT FUNDING FOR TOWN OF BARRE IN ORLEANS COUNTY

USDA Funding Will Be Used To Expand Local Water Service 

U.S. Senate Minority Leader Charles E. Schumer today announced $1,096,000 in federal funding, including a loan of $606,000 and a grant of $490,000 for the Town of Barre in Orleans County. The federal funding was allocated through the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development program. Specifically the Town of Barre will use the funding to create Water District #8, providing public water service to 36 additional residential users who do not currently have access to safe drinking water.

“This federal investment is good news for the Orleans County,” said Senator Schumer. “These federal funds for the Town of Barre will help boost economic development and increase access to water for residents. I am proud to announce this federal investment and will continue to fight to make sure that rural communities have the tools they need to build,  protect and maintain their infrastructure.”

“This will be the 4th water district in the Town of Barre, and we have two more in the works. Our local USDA office in Batavia has been so helpful in getting these projects funded. People have been asking for water in this area for a while, especially since last summer when we saw many wells dry up due to dry weather conditions and noticed some sulfur in the water supply. This new district will not only bring these people --who so desperately need it-- safe water, it will also increase their property value and lower their insurance costs,” said Barre Town Supervisor Mark Chamberlin.  

USDA Rural Development's mission is to increase economic opportunity and improve the quality of life for rural residents.  This funding is awarded through the Rural Business Development Grant program, administered by the USDA’s Rural Development agency. The Rural Development agency is committed to improving economies and lives in rural America, through loans, grants and loan guarantees. They support local businesses, individuals and communities by promoting economic development, offering loans and providing technical assistance. 

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