Thursday, Jun 14 2012 4:17PM
Repairing water and sewer system repairs, updating electric infrastructure and creating access to broadband connectivity are tasks USDA will focus on implementing in Substantially Underserved Trust Areas (SUTAs).
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced new measures to improve quality of life and economic opportunities in tribal communities.
Repairing water and sewer systems, updating electric infrastructure and creating access to broadband connectivity are tasks USDA will focus on implementing in Substantially Underserved Trust Areas (SUTAs).
"These measures are a crucial step for American Indians, Alaska Natives, Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders to build modern utility infrastructure, create jobs and improve their quality of life," said Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. "The changes will put resources where they are most needed and will give USDA Rural Development added flexibility that will help tribes located in Trust Areas."
The agency will issue loans and loan guarantees with low interest rates to organizations that apply for SUTA loans to help complete improvements in tribal communities nationwide.
USDA Rural Utilities Services Administrator Jonathan Adelstein recently testified to the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs that ensuring enough funding is available for SUTAs is a primary goal of the agency.
For further information, check out this source:
U.S. Department of Agriculture