USDA Deputy Secretary Kathleen Merrigan joined Senator Jack Reed and North Tiverton, Rhode Island Fire District Moderator James Donnelly on Friday, September 10 to cut the celebratory, ceremonial ribbon that was wrapped around the towns’ new pump station.
The facility, which was originally constructed in the 1960’s and hasn’t had improvements made to it since, was renovated and enhanced with the assistance of loan and grant funds totaling $681,000 provided through USDA Rural Development and the American Recovery and Re-Investment Act.
The pump room at North Tiverton’s State Avenue pump station was refurbished, and pipes, valves and pumps have been replaced to process a larger capacity of water. Additionally, all aspects of the pump station’s operation can now be managed remotely. Completing this project has been the key component to improving water quality and fire protection services in this southeast Rhode Island community.
“The recovery act’s impact is being felt across the nation, including here in Rhode Island,” said Merrigan. “The Obama administration is working to improve water quality across America. Because of this pump station, local residents will have safe drinking water and reliable water pressure for improved fire safety.”
“Our close relationship with USDA enables us to build capital projects,” said Donnelly. “I hope we can be a good partner with USDA in the future.”
