The Town of Kingstree recently received $89,250 in USDA Rural Development grant funds to purchase several vehicles for various departments. The project was funded with federal funds provided through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act that President Barack Obama signed into law in February. The grant was for 75 percent of the total cost of the project and the Town of Kingstree paid the remaining 25 percent.
On January 12, the town held a reception at the Kingstree Recreation Center, where George W. Hicks, Jr., Area Director for USDA Rural Development, formally presented the vehicles. Other speakers included Mayor Ricky Burrows and Kingstree Chief of Police Robert K. Ford.
The funds provided for the purchase of two new police patrol cars, a pickup truck for the sanitation department and a car for the fire department. “This is one example of how USDA Rural Development can work with towns and communities for the overall development and safety of their communities and we are pleased to work with the Town of Kingstree to make it happen,” said USDA Rural Development State Director Vernita F. Dore in a press release.
Rural Development, through its Community Facilities Program, provides financial assistance to develop essential community facilities for public use in rural areas. Those facilities include, but are not limited to, schools, libraries, fire and rescue stations, police stations and hospitals.
The mission of the USDA Rural Development is to deliver programs that support increasing economic opportunities and enhance the quality of life for its citizens. Through its loan and grant programs, it has promoted economic development and fostered growth in business development, homeownership, and critical community and technology infrastructure. For more information regarding USDA Rural Development programs, contact the Kingstree office at (843) 354-9613 ext: 4, or by visiting USDA’s website at http:/www.rurdev.usda.gov.