USDA awards funding to West Virginia communities

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Office of Rural Development has awarded $320,000 for West Virginia communities.

The funding, through the Community Facilities Program, will support the purchase of vehicles and other equipment for emergency and non-emergency purposes.

“Local officials are on the front lines every day providing basic services that West Virginians depend on,” said U.S. Sen. Shelley Moore Capito. “It is important that we help equip them with the tools they need to serve their neighbors."

U.S. Sen. Joe Manchin, D-W.Va., said, "I am happy to see these West Virginia communities receive the valuable resources needed to update their public infrastructure and communities. The updated police fleets will keep the communities of Princeton, Bluefield, Romney, Glenville and Smithers safer. The utility vehicles for Romney and Alderson will help facilitate public works and repairs around the community."

Individual awards include $55,500 to the City of Romney; $50,000 to the Big Otter Volunteer Fire Department; $50,000 to the City of Smithers; $50,000 to the City of Bluefield; $50,000 to the City of Princeton; $50,000 to the Town of Alderson; $23,200 to the City of Romney; and $13,000 to Glenville State College.