KENTUCKY ⁠— Kentucky is one of 36 states, along with Puerto Rico, that will receive funding from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to improve water and wastewater infrastructure in rural communities. Funded through the Water and Waste Disposal Loan and Grant program, the USDA is investing $281 million across 106 projects. 

What You Need To Know


  • Kentucky will receive USDA funding for water/wastewater infrastructure

  • The funds will go to rural communities

  • The USDA is investing $281 million across 36 states and Puerto Rico

“These investments will bring modern, reliable water and wastewater infrastructure to rural communities. They will replace deteriorating, leaking water pipes with new ones and upgrade water handling systems that are decades old. These investments create jobs and improve public health and safety for our rural neighbors,” said Bette Brand, USDA Deputy Under Secretary for Rural Development. “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.”

Rural cities, towns and water districts are considered eligible applicants, and the funds can be used for drinking water, stormwater drainage and waste disposal systems in rural communities that meet population limits.

Auburn, Kentucky, which is just outside Bowling Green, has already been approved for a $6.1 million loan and a $2.6 million grant to replace its wastewater treatment plant to accommodate increased discharge from a new industrial facility. This expansion will provide safe and reliable wastewater treatment services while expanding capacity for economic development.

Several of the Commonwealth's neighbors are also set to receive funding, including Indiana and Ohio. 

Those interested in application or eligibility information can view the interactive RD Apply tool or contact one of USDA's Rural Development's state or field offices.