Washington, DC – U.S. Senator Tim Johnson (D-SD) announced today that three South Dakota entities will receive a total of $613,890 in grants and loans from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.  The funding, awarded under the Community Facilities Program, will be used to invest in projects that improve the quality of life in rural communities.

“I am pleased that this stimulus funding will be used to make much-needed improvements to facilities in South Dakota,” Johnson said.  “These investments in the public good are the kind of investments I support in my Hometown Prosperity Plan.”

The Cheyenne River Youth Project will receive a $135,000 grant to purchase furniture, computers and other equipment. The Red Cloud Indian School, Inc. will receive a $276,550 grant and a $172,340 loan to renovate its library. The town of McLaughlin will receive a $30,000 grant to purchase steps and ramps.

The Community Facilities Program provides grants to assist in developing essential community facilities in rural areas.  Grants can be used to construct, expand, or improve community facilities for health care, public safety, and public community services.  Funds can also be used to purchase equipment necessary for a facility’s operation.

Senator Johnson's Hometown Prosperity Plan is a four-pillar agenda for advancing South Dakota's economy from the federal level.  The four pillars, or strategies, include “Promoting Partnerships,” “Emphasizing Entrepreneurship,” “Investing in the Public Good,” and “Protecting Pocketbooks.”  The full plan includes specific actions related to each strategy and can be downloaded from http://johnson.senate.gov.

The stimulus package signed by President Obama focused on tax cuts for the middle class, infrastructure investments and job creation. This funding is a prime example of the kind of resources the legislation provides to help improve communities while advancing South Dakota’s economy.  

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