USDA Rural Development Invests in Infrastructure Improvements in Cumberland County

Project is Anticipated to Create Five Jobs and Advance the Region's Long Term Environmental Goals

(Columbus, N.J., May 7, 2026) - U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development New Jersey State Director Rick Stern today announced an investment supporting innovative wastewater solutions that enhance efficiency and protect local resources in rural New Jersey.

Heartland-Cumberland Development LLC, in Millville, is receiving a Business and Industry Guaranteed Loan of $4,571,000 in partnership with lender, Pathward, to invest in onsite leachate treatment by retrofitting a reverse osmosis system for the Cumberland County Improvement Authority. Leachate, the liquid that forms when water filters through landfill waste and absorbs contaminants, must be carefully managed to protect groundwater, surface water, and the surrounding environment. By treating this material onsite, Cumberland County will eliminate the need for offsite disposal, reduce transportation costs, and strengthen environmental safeguards. This investment modernizes critical infrastructure, streamlines waste-management operations, and supports a more resilient local economy.

"This project is a strong example of the impact that dedicated local partners can make when we work together," said Stern. "USDA Rural Development is proud to support Heartland-Cumberland Development LLC and the Cumberland County Improvement Authority as they advance modern wastewater treatment solutions delivering both economic and environmental benefits for the region."

"We are pleased to be working with Heartland to continue our collective efforts to be great stewards of the environment," said Cumberland County Authority GEO Gerard Velazquez. "The public/private partnership allows the Authority to directly manage leachate collection and evaporation on site. USDA is an integral resource for rural municipalities in Cumberland County."

This investment is part of USDA's ongoing commitment to ensure rural communities have the tools and resources necessary to build resilient and sustainable local economies.

USDA Rural Development is committed to improving the economy and quality of life in rural America. Through loan, grant and loan guarantee programs, USDA assists communities with infrastructure improvements; business development; housing; community facilities such as schools, public safety and health care; and high-speed internet access. For more information, visit www.rd.usda.gov.

For more information on USDA Rural Development investments in rural America, visit the Rural Data Gateway. The Rural Data Gateway is an online tool that strengthens USDA Rural Development partnerships with rural people, entrepreneurs, government officials and Congress by making investment data accessible to the public.

Learn more online at www.rd.usda.gov, subscribe to GovDelivery updates, and follow us on X at @RD_NewJersey.

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