ALBUQUERQUE, NM, July 30, 2015- USDA Rural Development State Director Terry Brunner was in Jal, New Mexico to help celebrate the completion of one project and the start another infrastructure project. Together, both projects represent $12.4 million in federal funding for the community of Jal.

The double ceremony saw Brunner present two certificates, one to celebrate the completion of Jal's waste water project and another to celebrate the beginning of construction of a major water system replacement project.

During the event, Brunner said, "The community of Jal was in need of major infrastructure improvements. Teaming up with USDA the community of Jal will improve its water delivery to residents and its treatment of wastewater." He added, "In growing areas like Southeast New Mexico these infrastructure e improvements help set the stage for further economic development and a better quality of lif."

USDA Rural Development provided a $1.1 million loan/grant funding package in 2012 to upgrade the wastewater system. This refurbishment of the sewer system was critical because the completion of the new delivery system now brings the city of Jal into compliance with the New Mexico Environment Department reuse policy.

The construction of the new water system is badly needed because the current water distribution system is over 70 years old, with undersized lines and many leaks which accounts for 46% in unaccounted water loss. The new system, funded with a $11.3 loan and grant from USDA Rural Development, will all but eliminate the water loss and provide better fire protection and a reliable and safe water supply to the residents of Jal.