WASHINGTON –The U.S. Department of Agriculture is investing $635 million in 122 projects to improve water systems and wastewater handling services in rural communities in 42 states, including the village of Alpha in Iron County.

Alpha will use a $197,000 loan and $590,000 grant to make water system improvements.

The work includes 2,850 linear feet of watermain replacement, rehabilitating two wells, replacing water treatment plant filter media, and improvements on the elevated water storage to improve water quality and alleviate freezing problems during the winter.

In addition, the village will replace 30-year-old water meters and the monitoring system. The village serves 115 residential and 12 commercial customers.

“The value of these investments extends far beyond the local communities,” said USDA Rural Development State Director for Michigan Jason Allen. “Clean ground water and safe drinking water benefit everyone in Michigan.”

USDA is funding the projects through the Water and Waste Disposal Loan and Grant program.

Eligible applicants include rural cities, towns and water districts. The funds can be used for drinking water, stormwater drainage and waste disposal systems in rural communities that meet population limits.

“These investments will bring reliable infrastructure to rural communities,” said USDA Deputy Under Secretary for Rural Development Donald “DJ” LaVoy “They will replace old, fragile, leaking water pipes with new ones and allow upgrades to water handling systems that are decades old, boosting water pressure and cutting water losses. Working with our partners, these investments create jobs and improve public health and safety. Under the leadership of President Trump and Agriculture Secretary Perdue, USDA is committed to partnering with rural communities to help them improve their infrastructure, because when rural America thrives, all of America thrives.”