Public-Private Partnerships Build Communities

Washington, DC - Idaho Senator Mike Crapo is encouraging Idaho community leaders to consider the USDA Rural Development's Community Facilities Guaranteed Loan Program for funding opportunities in the coming year. Crapo, the Ranking Member on the Senate Agriculture Subcommittee on Rural Revitalization, Conservation, Forestry and Credit, says the program offers low-interest loans and grants that can assist with infrastructure improvements ranging from fire stations to recreation centers and health clinics.

"The USDA Rural Development Community Facilities Guaranteed Loan Program works with outside creditors to provide a mix of public and private dollars that can make these projects happen quickly," Crapo said. "Many rural Idaho community organizations are eligible for the program, including cities, non-profit groups and tribal governments. Efforts to improve our rural infrastructure should include plans for roads and bridges, but also the improvements to community health, recreation and other facilities eligible for assistance under this USDA Rural Development program."

Crapo noted some of the projects USDA has assisted with recently in Idaho include an assisted-living center for senior citizens and a community health center. Applications can be made by contacting USDA Rural Development at the following phone numbers: North Idaho 208-762-4939; Eastern Idaho: 208-785-5840; Western Idaho: 208-459-0761; Central Idaho 208-733-5380.