WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Congressman Bart Stupak (D-Menominee) announced the city of Onaway and the Corsair Trail Council in Iosco County received grants totaling $56,000 for new equipment.  The funding was awarded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) through the Community Facility Economic Impact Initiative Grant program.

“This funding will provide new equipment that will allow city officials and the Corsair Trail Council to better serve both residents and visitors in Onaway and Iosco County,” Stupak said.  “Northern Michigan residents continue to benefit from the facility improvements and equipment upgrades provided through USDA Economic Impact Initiative grants.”

The Corsair Trail Council in Iosco County will receive $6,000 for the purchase of a new trail grooming machine to maintain hiking trails as well as the largest groomed cross-country ski trail system in the state of Michigan.  These hiking and ski trails play an essential role in promoting Northern Michigan tourism and the economic benefits that tourism provides.

The city of Onaway will receive $50,000 for the purchase of a new backhoe to replace the existing vehicle that is in need of major transmission and hydraulic repairs.  The new backhoe will be used for general operations and emergency water or sewer main leaks.

The USDA Community Facilities program provides grants to assist in the development of essential community facilities in rural areas.  Funds can be used to construct, enlarge, or improve community facilities for health care, public safety, and community and public services.

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