HYDE-SMITH:  USDA RURAL DEVELOPMENT GRANTS TO SARDIS & HERNANDO GEARED TOWARD FUTURE ECONOMIC GROWTH

Rural Business Development Studies Will Look at Economic Opportunities Related to Sardis Lake, Hernando Recreational Facilities

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.) today announced the award of two grants worth $263,202 to provide technical assistance for feasibility studies on expanding economic development in two Northwest Mississippi communities.

U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development has approved a $164,202 grant to the City of Sardis and a $99,000 grant to the City of Hernando, both to support feasibility studies on projects that could bring new job opportunities and revenue for their communities.

“The technical assistance financed by these Rural Business Development Grants will allow Sardis and Hernando to discover how best to use their assets to create jobs, tourism, and economic growth,” said Hyde-Smith, who serves on the Senate Agriculture Appropriations Subcommittee.  

“I’m pleased with the USDA investments in Northwest Mississippi, which can help this region make the most of its continued growth,” she said.

The grant to the City of Sardis will support an economic impact and feasibility study for proposed future development of the Sardis Lake Recreation and Tourism Complex in Panola County.  

The Hernando grant will support a feasibility study and business plan related to maximizing the economic impact of the city’s recreational facilities and sports tournaments.

In addition to the grants to Sardis and Hernando, USDA Rural Development also approved a $75,000 grant to the Southaven-based Communities Unlimited, Inc. to support a project that provides technical assistance and business training to small businesses operating in 52 counties across Mississippi.

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