U.S. Rep. Nick Rahall, D-WV, announced today that the Ronceverte Development Corporation has been awarded a $300,000 Rural Business Enterprise Grant from the United States Department of Agriculture.

"The Rural Development funds of the USDA continue to help the communities of southern West Virginia with vital projects," said Rahall. "This funding will help the town of Ronceverte accomplish its goals to revive the downtown area and will assist new businesses looking to locate there."

The grant will be used to purchase and renovate commercial properties in downtown Ronceverte, with the intention of providing usable space for lease to small retail businesses. The Corporation will also provide technical assistance and establish a revolving loan fund. These funds will provide loans to downtown businesses for working capital. The project is expected to result in saving four jobs and creating 12-14 new jobs.

"We in southern West Virginia appreciate the help of programs like the USDA Rural Development fund, the Appalachian Regional Commission and the Economic Development Administration. All of these are a huge help to our communities," Rahall said.