Washington, D.C. - Congressman John Barrow (GA-12) announced today that Swainsboro, Georgia, was one of 31 cities selected to received water and environmental project loans and grants that are being funded through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.

Swainsboro was selected to receive a $6.4 million loan and $7.2 million grant to repair and renovate a wastewater treatment plant. The city is under an existing Environmental Protection Division consent order that will be removed upon completion of these improvements.

"This money is good for the folks who live in Swainsboro because it'll improve their city and it'll get folks back to work," said Barrow.

"Recovery Act projects are helping rural communities of all sizes build a foundation for economic strength, future prosperity, and a healthy environment," said Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. "The 31 water and wastewater projects we're announcing today are helping to achieve the Obama Administration's economic recovery goals to rebuild and revitalize the nation's infrastructure while creating or retaining jobs."

The funding announced today is being administered by USDA Rural Development's Water and Environmental Program which provides loans and grants to ensure that the necessary investments are made in water and wastewater infrastructure to deliver safe drinking water and protect the environment in rural areas. More information about USDA's Recovery Act efforts is available at www.usda.gov/recovery.

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 Contact:  Jane Brodsky, (202) 225-2823

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