USDA Rural Development Highlights $164M Invested in Utah’s Rural Economy, Infrastructure, Affordable Housing

(Salt Lake City, Oct. 19, 2026) - U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development Utah State Director Stan Summers today highlighted the ways the Trump Administration is investing in strong rural infrastructure, growing industries, affordable housing and utilities, and jobs throughout rural Utah.

"USDA Rural Development is proud to support the people, businesses, farmers, ranchers, and communities that make rural Utah strong," said Summers. "By investing in rural communities, we are helping create new opportunities, strengthen local economies, and build a stronger future for Utah. I would like to thank the Trump administration and Secretary Rollins for putting rural America, farmers and ranchers first in their policies and tasking us to fulfill those policies. Their commitment has empowered us to make a tangible difference in the lives of rural Utah, and I am proud to contribute to these efforts."

During fiscal year 2026, USDA Rural Development took action to inject capital into Utah's rural economy and communities, supporting the high quality of life Utah families expect. Key areas of investment include infrastructure, industry growth, and affordable housing.

Safeguarding and Modernizing Infrastructure

Through its Community Facilities and Water and Wastewater Programs , USDA invested $10 million through 12 loans and grants to address emergency water-access conditions caused by prolonged drought, make critical infrastructure upgrades, and ensure that small, remote communities receive the training and assistance they need to safely manage local systems.

Advancing Industry Growth

Through the Business Programs guaranteed loans, Value-Added Producer Grants, and Rural Business Development Grants, USDA awarded $28 million to 7 rural Utah businesses. These investments supported processing operations, stimulated economic activity, created new employment opportunities, assisted with business acquisitions, expanded services, and helped retain jobs. The agency also awarded grants to encourage entrepreneurship, promote tourism, and support the growth of small businesses.

Affordable Housing Options for Rural Living

USDA Rural Development's Single Family Housing Programs give qualifying families and individuals opportunities to buy, build, or repair homes in rural Utah. As housing affordability remains a priority, USDA is pleased to provide options that help people secure housing in their rural communities and continue to call them home.

During fiscal year 2026, 89 rural Utah families benefited from USDA's direct financing programs, including the Mutual Self-Help Housing program. USDA Rural Development partners with nonprofit organizations to help families build their own homes through sweat equity and works with housing organizations to make necessary repairs to homes families already own. Through these programs, USDA Rural Development invested $36 million in direct loans and grants.

An additional $90 million was invested through USDA's home loan guarantee and multifamily housing programs, encouraging more families to settle in rural Utah and contribute to the strength of these communities.

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 RD's investment data accessible to the public. Learn more online at rd.usda.gov and follow us on X at @RD_Utah .

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