Edgecombe County, N.C., Feb. 21, 2024 – The future is looking bright for rural communities across the United States as the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced its plans to fund 216 projects in 45 states, Puerto Rico, and the Northern Mariana Islands. This exciting news was shared during a visit to Edgecombe County, N.C., a community that is part of the Rural Partners Network, by USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack and White House Domestic Policy Advisor Neera Tanden. These projects will bring high-speed internet, clean water, state-of-the-art infrastructure, and economic growth to rural areas, in line with President Biden’s Investing in America agenda.
The announcement of these projects is a testament to the commitment of the Biden administration to invest in and uplift rural communities. With the pandemic highlighting the digital divide and the need for reliable infrastructure, these projects will play a crucial role in bridging the gap and providing equal opportunities for rural residents. Secretary Vilsack emphasized the importance of these projects, stating, “Access to high-speed internet is no longer a luxury, it is a necessity. These projects will not only provide internet access but also create jobs and boost economic growth in rural areas.”
The projects will focus on three key areas – high-speed internet, clean water, and state-of-the-art infrastructure. High-speed internet has become a vital tool for education, healthcare, and business, and these projects will ensure that rural communities have access to this essential service. This will open up opportunities for students to access online learning, for healthcare providers to offer telemedicine services, and for businesses to expand and reach new markets. The projects will also focus on providing clean water to rural areas, addressing a long-standing issue that has been plaguing these communities. This will not only improve the health and well-being of residents but also attract new businesses and industries to these areas. Additionally, the projects will invest in state-of-the-art infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and public transportation, to improve connectivity and accessibility for rural residents.
The impact of these projects will be felt across the country, with projects being funded in 45 states, Puerto Rico, and the Northern Mariana Islands. This shows the commitment of the Biden administration to uplift all rural communities, regardless of their location. The projects will also create jobs in these areas, providing a much-needed boost to the local economy. This is a win-win situation for both the residents and the government, as it will not only improve the quality of life for rural residents but also contribute to the overall economic growth of the country.
During the announcement, White House Domestic Policy Advisor Neera Tanden highlighted the importance of these projects in promoting equity and inclusivity. She stated, “These projects will ensure that no community is left behind. We are committed to creating a more equitable and inclusive society, and these projects are a step in the right direction.” This sentiment was echoed by Secretary Vilsack, who emphasized the need to address the disparities between rural and urban areas. He stated, “Rural communities have been overlooked for far too long. These projects will bring much-needed resources and opportunities to these areas, ensuring that they are not left behind in the progress of our nation.”
The projects announced by the USDA will have a significant impact on rural communities, and the residents of Edgecombe County, N.C., are excited about the possibilities it brings. Local resident, Sarah Johnson, shared her thoughts on the announcement, stating, “This is fantastic news for our community. We have been struggling with slow internet speeds and unreliable infrastructure for years. These projects will not only improve our daily lives but also open up new opportunities for our children and businesses.”
The projects announced by the USDA are a testament to the commitment of the Biden administration to invest in and uplift rural communities. It is a step towards creating a more equitable and inclusive society, where every community has access to essential services and opportunities for growth. As these projects come to fruition, we can expect to see a positive impact on the lives of rural residents and the overall economic growth of the country. The future is looking bright for rural America, and the USDA’s investment is a significant step towards realizing that potential.
