WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Congressman Bart Stupak (D-Menominee) announced the city of Ironwood has received a $50,000 grant and a loan for $1,550,000 to renovate and expand the historical Ironwood Carnegie Library.  The U.S. Department of Agriculture is providing the funding through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA).  This stimulus funding is designated for community facility projects.

“The Carnegie Library is a landmark in Ironwood and this funding will provide upgrades to make the facility safer and more accessible to better serve the community,” Stupak said.  “I applaud this significant investment of stimulus funds in Ironwood.  Support from the USDA is critical to maintaining and improving essential community facilities in rural areas across Northern Michigan.”

The stimulus funding will be used to expand access to the library for handicapped and disabled customers; create program, activity, meeting and office spaces; upgrade heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems; and install new windows to improve productivity and efficiency.  At present, none of the local public schools have libraries in their buildings, so maintaining and upgrading this public facility is especially important for the community of Ironwood and the surrounding areas.

To date, Gogebic County has received $38,247,739 in ARRA funds, the second highest total in the First Congressional District.

The USDA Rural Development Community Facilities program helps finance essential community facilities for public use in rural areas.  These facilities include hospitals, health care and assisted-living facilities, child care center, fire and rescue stations, police stations, community centers, public buildings and transportation.  Funds are available to public bodies, non-profit organizations and federally recognized Indian tribes.

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