WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, U.S. Sens. Mark Warner and Tim Kaine (both D-VA) applauded the $86,200 in funds awarded to Virginia communities by the United States Department of Agriculture’s Office of Rural Development. The funds will go towards the purchase of police and public works vehicles and equipment for rural communities in the towns of Shenandoah, Louisa, and Clintwood, and in the city of Norton.

“We are pleased this funding will allow communities in Virginia to update their public works and safety programs,” the Senators said. “This money will help the towns of Louisa and Clintwood and the city of Norton purchase new police vehicles. It will also help support community investments in the towns of Shenandoah and Louisa. These are funds that will help improve public safety and revitalize local communities.” 

The following localities will receive funding:

• The Town of Shenandoah will receive $16,200 towards the purchase of new full-size backhoe that will help provide public works services and upkeep the town’s property. 
• The Town of Louisa will receive $20,000 towards the purchase of one police vehicle and one public works vehicle.
• The Town of Clintwood will receive $25,000 towards the purchase of one police vehicle.
• The City of Norton will receive $25,000 towards the purchase of two police vehicles.

The USDA’s Community Facilities Direct Loan and Grant Program provides affordable funding to develop essential community facilities in rural areas. Funding awarded through this program seeks to purchase, construct, and/or improve community facilities that are used for health care, public safety, community support, and public service.

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