From left, are Chris Glime, Indian Health Service Engineer; Blane Sanchez, Santo Domingo Utility Department Director; Felix Tenorio, Santo Domingo Pueblo Governor; Terry Brunner, USDA Rural Development State Director; and Raymond Aguilar, Santo Domingo Lt. Governor.

30-year-old dilapidated water system replaced
 
(February 15, 2013 Albuquerque, NM) USDA Rural Development State Director Terry Brunner joined Felix Tenorio, Jr. Governor of the Pueblo of Santo Domingo to dedicate the new water system that was installed at the Pueblo.
 
The $828,304 project was funded through USDA Rural Development’s Water and Environmental Program (WEP) which provides funds for infrastructure projects in rural communities. The grant money was made available by Congress through a Native American set-a-side fund specifically designed to help Native American Tribes to either build new or replace old and outdated water systems.
 
Just before opening a fire hydrant to symbolize the water system is in operation Brunner said, “When we broke ground 15 months ago, I saw firsthand how important this water project was for Pueblo of Santo Domingo. I told you then, projects such as this one are a priority to the Obama administration.” Brunner added, “And, now that commitment has been completed and will benefit the people of Santo Domingo Pueblo for years to come with a consistent flow of clean healthy water to their homes.”
 
The funding provided by USDA Rural Development’s Water and Environment Program (WEP) paid for the installation of new water meters and the laying of 13,000 feet of water lines throughout the northern portion of the Santo Domingo Pueblo village. Also, the community will benefit from the expanded water system by receiving better fire fighting protection with a better flow of water and pressure.  The design of the system includes the installation of new fire hydrants. The new water system replaces undersized distribution lines and will provide better water service coverage.
 
USDA Rural Development’s mission is to increase economic opportunity and improve the quality of life for rural residents. Rural Development fosters growth in homeownership, finances business development, and supports the creation of critical community and technology infrastructure. Further information on rural programs is available at any local USDA Rural Development office or by visiting USDA Rural Development’s web site at http://www.rurdev.usda.gov