Today the Town of Eden was presented with a $4.9 million ceremonial check from the U.S. Department of Agriculture. 

The funding has been provided through two loans. The first loan is for $3.9 million and the second is for $1 million. The funding will be used to expand the Town’s Water District #4, which will replace the area’s inadequate private wells and improve water quality for more than 5,500 residents.

           “Maintaining and improving older and inadequate water infrastructure is a major challenge for communities across Western New York,” said Congressman Brian Higgins (NY-27).  “This federal funding will provide clean and efficient water delivery to thousands of homes in the Town of Eden.”

            “Improving the quality of life in rural communities is one of our core missions at USDA Rural Development and helping local governments provide clean, safe water is one of the ways we accomplish that objective,” said State Director Brennan. “Water is an essential utility and we’re pleased to assist Eden in this effort.”

            “The water project is essential to the future of the Town of Eden. It strengthens our entire water system assuring an adequate source for years to come,” said Eden Town Supervisor Glenn R. Nellis. “It would not have happened without the financial support of USDA Rural Development. Thank you Rural Development on behalf of the citizens of Eden.”

            USDA Rural Development’s mission is to increase economic opportunity and improve the quality of life for rural residents. In fiscal year 2007, USDA Rural Development invested more than $262 million in New York, raising its total investment in the state to more than $1.5 billion since 2001. Further information on rural programs is available by contacting the State Office at (315) 477-6400 or by visiting USDA's web site at http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/ny.