Affordability for Rural Communities

Affordability is the key factor for small and rural communities in their decisions to upgrade and enhance water services for their customers. Skyrocketing construction costs, disrupted supply chains, and ever increasing regulatory requirements are just a few of the roadblocks rural America faces when financing critical water infrastructure. Rural Development’s Water and Waste Disposal Loan and Grant Program is a lifeline for rural America, funding clean and reliable water systems nationwide. Grant costs can cover up to 75% of total development costs for the most vulnerable communities, which is necessary to provide affordable rates. For the majority of small and rural communities, a grant/loan mix is critical to keep projects affordable. USDA RD needs an adequate amount of baseline grant funding to maintain their mission to serve rural America.