Cheyenne, OK – Last week, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced the investment of more than $554 million to build and improve critical rural infrastructure in Oklahoma. Congressman Frank Lucas (OK-03) released the following statement applauding the investment in Oklahoma’s communities helping expand access to high-speed internet, clean water, and reliable electricity in people’s homes and businesses across rural Oklahoma:

“From businesses on Main Street, classrooms in our local schools, and households dotted across rural Oklahoma, investments in infrastructure help shape the daily lives of each and every Oklahoman. USDA’s investment in expanding critical, rural infrastructure will create jobs and provide the necessary resources needed to expand broadband and dependable electric power for those serving rural communities,” said Congressman Lucas. “Investing in rural Oklahoma undoubtedly increases economic opportunities for our communities’ small businesses, family farms, and hard-working families; and improves the livelihoods of those who call rural Oklahoma home. I thank USDA for their investment in Oklahoma’s rural infrastructure, ensuring that when rural America thrives all of America thrives.”

Provided by funding through the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2021, USDA’s investments will provide $554,849,000 in loans and grants to support  infrastructure improvements; business development; housing; community facilities such as schools, public safety and health care; and high-speed internet access in rural, Tribal and high-poverty areas, including:

• $78,000,000- Associated Electric Cooperatives
• $41,807,000- Northwestern Electric Cooperation
• $178,831,000- East Central Oklahoma Electric Cooperative
• $19,322,000- Southwest Rural Electric Association
• $234,410,000- Western Farmers Electric Cooperative
• $2,479,000- Rural Water District No. 4

For more information, visit rd.usda.gov.

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