USDA AWARD SUPPORTS EFFORT TO RECONSTRUCT RAFT ISLAND BRIDGE

September 12, 2011 -- The U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development approved a Direct Loan of $1,849,400 and a Guaranteed Loan for $2,893,000 for the reconstruction of the Raft Island Improvement Association’s (RIIA) aging timber bridge built in 1957.

Rural Development funds will be used to replace the existing bridge that serves as sole access to Raft Island. The island is in an unincorporated area of Pierce County and serves as residence for approximately 500 individuals. The project could begin in 2013 pending final approval of the bridge plans and the financing plan by the members of the Raft Island Improvement Association. The 788-foot timber bridge serves approximately 200 homes on nearly 200 acres. As a private island, the membership manages and maintains the roads, bridge and community parks

A formal awards ceremony will be held on Tuesday, September 20 at 1:30 pm at the community’s “South Beach” located next to the bridge. "The funding for this project further demonstrates USDA Rural Development’s commitment to improve the quality of life for rural residents by ensuring that rural communities benefit from safe and reliable infrastructure such as this bridge,” said Mario Villanueva, USDA Rural Development Washington State Director.

The Raft Island Improvement Association is currently working with a local bank to secure the loan guarantee funds for the project that could begin in 2013. The USDA-backed loan will be paid back over 30 years.

Senator Patty Murray, Congressman Norm DIcks and Senator Derek Kilmer provided support letters for the project back in 2010 when Raft Island applied for funds. Congressman Dicks stated, “This federal loan, awarded through the U.S. Dept. of Agriculture’s Rural Development program that supports essential public facilities, assures continued access to Raft Island for all of the residents and visitors.   It’s an example of a small program that can leverage substantial private investment as it helps sustain communities such as Raft Island.  I was proud to support the Raft Island Improvement Association’s successful proposal for this vital infrastructure project that keeps these homeowners safely connected to the rest of the Gig Harbor community. “

“Committed to the future of rural communities”, the USDA Rural Development administers and manages more than 40 housing, business, and community infrastructure and facilities programs. These programs are designed to improve the economic stability of rural communities, businesses, residents, farmers and ranchers and improve the quality of life in rural America.

For more information, contact the Raft Island Manager at juanita@hoacommunitysolutions.com or call (253) 265-1818.