WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Congressman Bart Stupak (D-Menominee) announced that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has awarded communities in northern Michigan with grant and loan funding for infrastructure improvement projects that will create jobs for local residents.  The awards are provided through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.

The City of Standish will be awarded a $285,000 loan and $200,000 grant for the construction of a new fire hall building.

Burt Township in Alger County will receive a $712,000 loan and a $200,000 grant to construct a fire and emergency medical services municipal building.

The City of Gladwin has been awarded a $78,000 grant to construct a farmers market.   Gladwin will also receive a $142,000 loan and a $78,000 grant for police station expansion and remodeling.

“I am pleased that important stimulus funds are being used for infrastructure improvements in northern Michigan,” said Stupak.  “These investments will create construction jobs and enhance the services provided at public facilities in rural areas throughout the country.”

The $469 million being announced today are funded through the USDA Rural Development Community Facilities Program.  Today’s announcement includes more than $172.1 million in Recovery Act funding that will be matched with $65.2 million from other sources.

USDA Rural Development's Community Facilities Program helps finance essential community facilities for public use in rural areas.  These facilities include child care centers, hospitals, medical clinics, assisted-living facilities, fire and rescue stations, police stations, community centers, public buildings and transportation.

# # #