The United States Department of Agriculture Rural Development Program granted $1.8 million for three projects in Russell County, with the announcement coming at a special ceremony at the Russell County Airport last week.
The airport is among the projects receiving the funding. The Russell County Fiscal Court will use a grant totaling nearly $450,000 to construct a single-story 3,900-square-foot airport terminal building that will include office space, an attendant counter, lobby, meeting room, kitchen, restrooms, and a pilot lounge.
The City of Jamestown also received a $226,000 grant, along with a $994,000 loan that will be used as part of the ongoing water membrane project in the city. Four membranes are being replaced at the water treatment plant, as one has failed and the others are in imminent danger of failing, all due to age according to a release from the USDA.
Finally, the Lake Cumberland Area District Development Office received a $150,000 grant related to housing. The grant provides technical assistance for a feasibility study, business plan, and inventory of elderly multi-family properties. Renovation needs will then be identified, and potential providers and non-profits will be identified to partner with and improve quality of life for the elderly in the community.
“Our rural communities and elderly citizens deserve the utmost care and aid in this difficult time; these grants and loans will provide assistance for them and help Russell County meet their needs for years to come,” USDA Rural Development Kentucky State Director Hilda Legg said.
The ceremony last week was attended by multiple local elected officials and U.S. Rep. James Comer was on hand to speak to the crowd as well.
