USDA Invests Nearly $1 Million in Stelle for Critical Wastewater Infrastructure

U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development Illinois State Director Jesus Ortega announced that the agency is investing $963,000 for wastewater system improvements in Stelle.

"USDA Rural Development is continuing to assist rural Illinois communities like Stelle through critical investments in infrastructure," said Ortega. "Thanks to the leadership of President Trump and Agriculture Secretary Rollins, Rural Development continues to invest in modern infrastructure that helps keep our rural Illinois communities vibrant."

The Stelle Community Association is receiving a $260,000 loan and $703,000 grant from USDA Rural Development. The association's wastewater system improvements include constructing a covered, aerated lagoon system; installing a polishing reactor; replacing sand filter media; and repairing the existing recirculating sand filter. These improvements will remedy health and safety issues and will bring the facility up to acceptable standards. This project will serve 53 households in Ford County.

USDA is administering the funding through Rural Development's Water and Wastewater Environmental Programs . The Water and Wastewater Disposal program helps rural communities fund clean and reliable drinking water systems, sanitary sewage disposal, sanitary solid waste disposal, and storm water drainage to rural households and businesses.

USDA Rural Development invests in rural America with programs to promote rural prosperity. These programs expand access to high-speed internet, electricity, and transportation infrastructure, and support economic growth, healthcare, education, housing, and other community essentials. Discover more investment details and historical data in the Rural Data Gateway and learn more about the agency at www.rd.usda.gov/il .

Photo Caption: Stelle community board members and Rural Development Area Specialist Julie Beer.