So. Aroostook Agricultural Museum receives federal grant funds for roof

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack recently released a report highlighting the ways in which infrastructure investments in rural communities help create jobs and boost economic development, and he announced additional investments that will create jobs and promote economic growth across the nation.
    In Littleton, a Rural Economic Impact Initiative Grant of $16,900 will be used to replace the old roof on the Southern Aroostook Agricultural Museum with metal roofing. The current roof has spots where there is leakage, which if not repaired, will compromise the exhibits housed in the museum.  The Southern Aroostook Agricultural Museum showcases exhibits from early farming traditions in Aroostook County.
    USDA Rural Development State Director Virginia Manuel said, “I am so pleased that the Southern Aroostook Agricultural Museum has been selected to receive grant funds which will help it remain an important asset to the community as it supports the strong legacy of farming in Aroostook County. It truly is a bridge between our strong farming heritage and today’s support of local agriculture.”
    Since the start of fiscal year 2009, Rural Development’s Community Facilities Program has helped more than 37 million rural Americans address essential challenges in health care, education, public service and public safety by financing projects through loans, grants, or loan guarantees.
    Vilsack announced that 38 Community Facilities investments in 21 states are being awarded today to continue the Administration’s commitment to help create jobs and improve the economy.
    USDA Rural Development’s Community Facilities Program supports essential infrastructure and services for public use in rural areas of 20,000 in population or less. Financing for Community Facilities projects covers a broad range of interests, including healthcare, education, public safety and public services. There are three major Community Facilities Programs:  Community Facilities Direct and Guaranteed Loan Programs, Community Facilities Grants, and the Rural Community Development Initiative.