HENRICO, V.A.  – U.S. Representative Abigail Spanberger today announced federal grants and loans totaling $400,007 for the Town of Blackstone, Virginia to purchase new city vehicles.

The federal funding through the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) will help the Town of Blackstone purchase a 2021 sanitation vehicle, as one of Blackstone’s trucks is incurring expensive repairs and is reaching the end of its useful life. Additionally, the USDA Rural Development funding will allow Blackstone to replace older and unreliable vehicles and purchase a new dump truck to help plow snow, as well as spread salt and sand, during the winter months.

“Smart investments in Virginia’s rural communities — like Blackstone in Nottoway County — are necessary for keeping these areas strong and safe, as well as for supporting the local economy. This USDA funding is an example of how targeted federal investments can make an immediate difference on the ground,” said Spanberger. “I’d like to thank USDA for working directly with the Seventh District’s counties and municipalities to address the outstanding needs of our communities, and I look forward to these new vehicles becoming operational and driving down the roads of Blackstone in the near future.”

“We are most appreciative to USDA not only for the badly-needed funds but also the helpful manner in which its staff answers our questions,” said Billy Coleburn, Mayor, Blackstone, Virginia. “Without USDA, we would have to delay purchases of vital equipment for several years. Blackstone and USDA enjoy a very positive working relationship.”

These awards are distributed through the USDA’s Community Facilities Direct Loan and Grant Program, which helps fund a variety of essential community services in rural areas, including emergency response vehicles and equipment. Click here to learn more.

These federal funds are distributed as follows:

• USDA Community Facilities Direct Loan and Grant Program: A loan of $78,000 and a grant of $75,000 to purchase a 2021 sanitation vehicle.

• USDA Community Facilities Direct Loan and Grant Program: A loan of $52,000 and a grant of $75,000 to purchase a 2021 dump truck.

• USDA Community Facilities Direct Loan and Grant Program: Another loan of $52,000 and another grant of $75,000 to purchase a 2021 dump truck.

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