Hidalgo County, Texas – Today, Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) announced federal funds in the amount of $7,096,275 from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development. The cities of Alton, Hidalgo and Palmview all received funds for rural development projects in their respective communities in South Texas.

“When local communities reach out for federal assistance, we make their requests a top priority. When we can take significant steps such as this to increase public safety, improve infrastructure and create jobs, every family in the area benefits,” Congressman Cuellar said. “Hidalgo County taxpayers pay their taxes to the federal government and I'm proud to bring as much of it back for local projects in South Texas. I’d like to thank USDA Rural Development State Director, Paco Valentin, for his work in securing these funds."

The City of Alton will receive $1,000,000 in federal funds for the construction of a new fire station. Repairing the current fire station, which is too small to serve the growing community, would not be cost effective. The new fire station will be centrally located and will house first responder personnel 24 hours a day seven days a week. The station will also have bays with easy access to vehicles and fire trucks that can get to main thoroughfares quickly, allowing for faster response times.

The City of Hidalgo will receive $5,975,000 in federal funds to construct a new 1.5 million gallons per day wastewater treatment plant. The new plant will be located adjacent to the existing wastewater treatment plant and will increase total capacity to 2.7 million gallons per day.

The City of Palmview will receive a grant of $121,275 to begin a Revolving Loan Fund to aid small and emerging businesses. Under the program, a loan is made to a small business and as repayments are made, funds become available for new loans for other businesses. The goal of the loan program is to increase economic development and create one full time job for every $25,000 loaned. Some potential recipients that have expressed interest and qualify include: a bakery, an adult daycare center and a road side service business.

“Facility upgrades and new business development are essential items needed for the sustainability of growing rural communities,” said USDA Rural Development State Director Paco Valentin.  “USDA Rural Development is pleased to offer funding for these services and projects that will increase the quality of life for residents of Hidalgo County.”

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Congressman Henry Cuellar is a member of the U.S. House Homeland Security and Agriculture Committees. Job creation, accessibility to constituents, education, economic development, and national security are his priorities. Congressman Cuellar is also a Vice Chairman of the Steering and Policy Committee, Senior Whip, and member of the Blue Dog Coalition.