October 18, 2011

Manchin, Rockefeller Announce Nearly $3.15M for Rural Development Projects

Washington, D.C. —U.S. Senators Joe Manchin and Jay Rockefeller (both D-W.Va.) today announced nearly $3.15 million in funding for rural development projects from the U.S. Department of Agriculture that will extend electricity lines, help farmers increase their energy efficiency and assist local businesses expand across areas of West Virginia. 

“As families tighten their belt buckles, it is important to make sure our West Virginia small businesses, especially in our most rural areas, continue to thrive,” Senator Manchin said. “Helping local businesses to expand is a smart investment in job creation for our state and country. And teaching farmers to become more energy efficient can reduce our dependence on foreign oil, a key priority for our nation.” 

“Investments in our rural communities, whether in the form of expanding electricity, support for our farmers or for local businesses, are investments in the people of our state and commitments to building a better future,” said Senator Rockefeller.

Electric Guaranteed Loan:

The Harrison Rural Electrification Association, Inc. will receive a loan of $3 million to make electrical service improvements across Barbour, Doddridge, Harrison, Marion, Taylor, Lewis and Upshur counties. The project will serve 640 consumers, build 39 miles of new electric distribution line and make improvements to 18 miles of existing distribution line.

Rural Business Enterprise Grant:

The Braxton County Development Authority will receive $50,000 to help businesses assess site and financial planning to potentially expand their local businesses. The project is projected to create more than 40 jobs.

Rural Energy for America Program Grant Recipients: 

The Appalachian Offroad MC, LLC will receive $70,850 to help farmers, ranchers and rural small businesses to develop renewable energy practices. The project will also install a solar energy system to reduce electricity costs while generating solar energy at this facility. 

Mock’s Greenhouse and Landscaping will receive $28,070 to improve the small business’s energy efficiency operations. The project will also install tools to reduce energy costs.

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