BUCKHANNON – The City of Buckhannon will receive $33.3 million in federal funding for water infrastructure upgrades, the United States Department of Agriculture Rural Development announced this week.        

The investment from the USDA will go toward the construction of a new water plant. The new facility will replace the existing 65-year-old plant and will contain a raw water intake and raw water-pumping station. Approximately 23,000 rural residents will benefit from the new treatment plant project. 

“This USDA Rural Development investment strengthens the foundation for Buckhannon’s long‒term economic growth,” Buckhannon Mayor Robbie Skinner said. “Reliable, modern water infrastructure is essential for attracting new businesses, supporting existing employers, and preparing our community for future opportunities. We appreciate USDA’s partnership and its belief in Buckhannon’s potential. Together, we are building the conditions that allow families, entrepreneurs, and industries to thrive.” 

As part of the project, aging and leaking water lines on Route 20 and on Main Street will be replaced. New fire hydrants will also be installed to replace or supplement existing fire protection.      

“I am thrilled to see this critical water project move forward,” West Virginia USDA State Director John Reisenweber said. “Updating a decades‒old treatment plant means safer, more dependable service for Buckhannon residents.We are just one of many dedicated partners committed to seeing this project come to fruition. Projects of this scale don’t happen in silos, they require individuals and organizations at every level coming together to ensure the successful completion of work that will serve this community for generations to come.”       

Through its Water and Environment Programs, the USDA Rural Development assists rural communities with the construction of water water and waste facilities. The programs help rural communities obtain the technical assistance and financing necessary to develop drinking water and waste disposal systems.   

“Rural Development remains committed to strengthening the essential infrastructure our rural communities count on, and together with our partners, we’re helping lay the groundwork for a stronger future,” Reisenweber said.    

For more information on these programs, contact Community Programs Director Steve Collins at steve.collins@usda.gov. For more information on USDA Rural Development investments, visit www.rd.usda.gov/rural-data-gateway.