Courtney Announces $2.5 Million in Rural Development Funds for Thompson

Press Release

Congressman Joe Courtney today announced $2,530,000 in loans and grants from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to help fund the Town of Thompson's proposed sewer extension. Businesses, residences and the Marianapolis Preparatory School would all benefit from the competitively-awarded grant. The area is currently served by an on-site waste disposal system that is outdated and at capacity.

"These urgently-needed funds will mitigate pollution issues arising from the aging wastewater disposal system in place," said Courtney. "Improving and protecting water quality in eastern Connecticut's rural areas is a sound investment, and I commend the Town of Thompson for demonstrating this effectively in such a competitive funding environment. This investment today will benefit current and future generations of students, residents, and a businesses, alike."

"These funds and the low interest loan are going to help this project move forward," said Thompson First Selectman Lawrence K. Groh, Jr. "It's exciting that Congressman Courtney gave us the help needed to be able to complete the project. Without that I don't believe it would be moving forward."

A high water table and unfavorable soil conditions have made it difficult to install and operate on-site sewage disposal systems like the one used by Marianapolis. The Town of Thompson currently operates a more extensive sanitary sewer system, including a wastewater treatment plant, which has sufficient capacity to include the school and other properties in the area. Approximately 35 residences, 2 businesses, and 1 industrial property will have access to the extended sewer route.

Of the $2,530,000 awarded to the Town of Thompson by USDA's Rural Development mission, $1,898,000 are loaned funds and $632,000 are a grant. The agency's programs are designed to promote economic stability for communities, businesses, and farmers in rural areas.

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