WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) and Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.) today announced a total of $289,300 for West Virginia from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Office of Rural Development. Funding will help the communities of Romney and Burnsville purchase vehicles for law enforcement and road safety purposes, and support a West Virginia University (WVU) program to help improve water infrastructure and services in small communities.

“Safe streets and clean water are essential services that West Virginians depend on every day,” Senator Capito said. “As a member of the Appropriations Committee, I am thrilled to see this USDA funding heading to these communities as they work to strengthen safety efforts and improve quality of life in West Virginia communities.”

“It is essential that all West Virginia localities possess the necessary tools to make sure their residents are safe and secure,” Senator Manchin said. “This financial assistance will help Burnsville and Romney purchase vehicles, giving these communities the peace of mind that comes with knowing that their public officials and emergency responders are adequately equipped to meet the needs of their communities. It will also support West Virginia University’s efforts to improve water infrastructure in rural Appalachian communities.”

Individual awards listed below: 

  • $250,000 – West Virginia University: This funding will go towards a collaborative effort by WVU and the University of Kentucky to provide technical assistance to small/rural communities to improve water infrastructure and services.
  • $21,400 – City of Romney: This funding will go towards the purchase of a truck for snow removal.
  • $17,900 – Town of Burnsville: This funding will go towards the purchase of a police vehicle.

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