TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE ANNOUNCES $150,000 IN FEDERAL FUNDS FOR CITY OF FARMERSVILLE.

AUSTIN, TX -- The following information was released by the Texas Department of Agriculture:

Agriculture Commissioner Todd Staples today announced the Texas Department of Agriculture has awarded $150,000 in federal funds to the city of Farmersville for infrastructure improvements through the Texas Capital Fund. The project will help improve sidewalks, curbs, access ramps and gutters in downtown Farmersville.

"The Texas Capital Fund is a smart investment that rejuvenates the economies of Texas communities," Commissioner Staples said. "This award will help enhance economic development in Farmersville, proving that great things are possible when Texans partner with Texans."

The Texas Capital Fund, funded by the federal Community Development Block Grant program, provides more than $10 million in competitive awards each year to boost economic development in small Texas communities. Administered in cooperation with the Texas Department of Rural Affairs, the program is housed under TDA's Rural Economic Development division.

"The city of Farmersville is pleased to have received this grant," Farmersville Mayor Joseph Helmberger said. "It will provide much-needed sidewalk and accessible-compliant ramp improvements to the affected streets in our historic downtown. We look forward to continuing our partnership with the Texas Department of Agriculture."

State legislators agree the Texas Capital Fund offers immediate and long-term benefits.

"Congratulations to the city of Farmersville on receiving a Texas Capital Fund grant in the amount of $150,000 from the Texas Department of Agriculture," Sen. Craig Estes said. "Economic growth and local infrastructure improvements are greatly beneficial to this area. It is important to preserve the Farmersville community and its potential, and this grant should help benefit these community advancements."

"This could not have come at a better time for the city of Farmersville," Rep. Jodie Laubenberg said. "In addition to making some needed downtown improvements, this grant will help Farmersville to continue to preserve their status as a Texas Main Street community."

The Texas Capital Fund provides funding for projects under four different programs: Infrastructure Development, Real Estate Development, Main Street Improvements and Downtown Revitalization.

For more information about the Texas Capital Fund, contact the TDA Rural Economic Development division at mailto:%20finance@TexasAgriculture.gov or call the toll-free Rural Assistance line at (877) 428-7848.

All TDA press releases are also available via the Internet at www.TexasAgriculture.gov