U.S. Rep. Nick Rahall, D-WV, today announced the approval by the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) of a $1.5 million grant to the Fayette County Commission for an extension of the Danese Public Service District's water system.

"For too long, residents of Raven's Eye, Beelick Knob, and Hilton Village have had to deal with inadequate or poor quality water supply," said Rahall. "This funding will help improve the quality of life for hundreds of families in rural Fayette County."

This funding will provide for the construction of nearly 20 miles of water line, a 119,000-gallon water storage tank, and 39 fire hydrants. New lines will extend service to 207 homes and 15 businesses in Fayette County for the first time; 297 existing Danese customers will gain improved service and fire protection.

In addition to the $1.5 million ARC grant, the U.S. Department of Agriculture has committed a $1,370,000 Rural Development grant and a $1,351,000 Rural Development loan for a total project cost of $4,221,000.

As an ARC Caucus co-chair, Rahall has a long history of supporting the ARC, including co-sponsoring successful legislation to extend the ARC's services for West Virginians through 2011.

"The programs of the ARC are vital to the health and economic growth of southern West Virginia," Rahall said. "I am proud to support the ARC in its efforts to combat the complex set of economic challenges specific to our area."