The U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development provides several loan and grant programs open to townships throughout the year. 

The Community Facilities Direct Loan & Grant Program is open to rural townships with no more than 20,000 residents according to the latest U.S. Census to develop essential community facilities. Funds can be used to purchase, construct, and/or improve facilities, purchase equipment, and pay related project expenses. Eligible community facilities include public facilities (municipal buildings, courthouses, street improvements); community support services (community centers, fairgrounds); and public safety services (fire departments, police stations, public works vehicles or equipment).  

The Water & Waste Disposal Loan & Grant Program provides funding for clean and reliable drinking water systems, sanitary sewage and solid waste disposal, and stormwater drainage in eligible rural areas with populations of 10,000 or less. Funds may be used to finance the acquisition, construction, or improvement of: Drinking water sourcing, treatment, storage, and distribution; Sewer collection, transmission, treatment, and disposal; Solid waste collection, disposal, and closure; and stormwater collection, transmission, and disposal. 

For more information, visit the program pages or call the USDA PA Rural Development office at (717) 237-2299.