For Release: Monday, September 12, 2005
Contact: David Gillies: 202-225-5661

ALEXANDER AND PULASKI COUNTIES RECEIVE USDA GRANTS

Washington - U.S. Congressman Jerry Costello (D-IL) announced today that the following grants have been awarded in Alexander and Pulaski Counties from the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Office of Rural Development:   

• City of Cairo - $100,000 to rehabilitate the Toll House building at Fort Defiance Park for use as a museum and information center. 

• City of Mound City - $68,850 to purchase tractors, a truck, a mower and other equipment to maintain the City's streets and levees. 

• Pulaski County - $50,000 to purchase equipment to upgrade the County's 911 base system and recorder to keep the system reliable.      

"USDA grants leverage local and state dollars to meet pressing community needs," Costello said.  "These projects will enhance tourism, economic development and public safety."

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