Friday, Jun 14 2013 3:31PM

DOI funding for rural communities may help areas improve public works projects.

The U.S. Department of the Interior (DOI) announced it will extend approximately $399.8 million to rural communities nationwide under the 2013 Payments in Lieu of Taxes (PILT) program. The funds will be allocated to more than 1,900 local governments to be used for public works, housing and safety initiatives.

According to the agency, the program is designed to compensate local governments for non-taxable federal land in their jurisdictions. The counties are then free to use the funds for several types of services and purposes, including affordable housing assistance, firefighting and police services, improving public schools, stocking medical centers and bolstering social programs.

"Rural communities are a pillar of a strong America, contributing significantly to the nation's security, prosperity and economic strength," said Secretary Sally Jewell. "President Obama has made job creation and opportunity in rural areas a top priority for his Administration and has fought for continuing the PILT program to compensate and support local governments."

The funds are expected to help rural locations improve several areas that are inhibiting community development. Many rural locations are facing cuts in key programs related to eradicating poverty, improving public infrastructure and helping small businesses develop as a result of federal budget cuts, known more broadly as the sequester.

For example, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development recently stated that housing assistance for the elderly and veterans would likely be affected as a result of spending limitations. 

For more information, check out this resource: The U.S. Department of the Interior