(Washington, D.C.)–Congressman Jim Langevin today announced that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has approved a $3 million loan to the Town of Charlestown for the construction of a new police station.  The funds were made available under USDA’s Community Facility Direct Loan Program.

 “I am pleased that USDA has approved this substantial loan to improve public safety and services for the residents of Charlestown,” said Congressman Langevin.  “Certainly, 3,500 square feet is hardly adequate for Charlestown law enforcement to effectively carry out their public safety duties.  The Community Facility Direct Loan program has enabled many communities throughout the nation to make critical improvements to their structures, thereby improving public and private services.”

 The Town of Charlestown will use the $3 million loan to build a new 14,700-square-foot police station.  The current 3,500-square-foot station is located in the Town Hall.  In addition to increasing space for personnel, prisoner security and public services, a larger, centrally-located police station will also improve response time.

 According to the USDA, the Community Facility Direct Loan program provides financing to improve or develop essential community facilities in rural areas.  An essential community facility is defined as a public improvement needed for the beneficial and orderly development of a rural community.  Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations and public bodies such as municipalities, cities, towns, villages, counties and special purpose districts, such as hospital or fire districts, and federally-recognized Indian tribes.

 The $3 million dollars must be paid back over the period of 40 years at an interest rate of 4.625 percent.

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