WASHINGTON – U.S. Sens. Roger Wicker and Thad Cochran today announced Coast Electric Power Association has received a $7,324,000 loan from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Rural Development program.  The funds will be used to build two miles of improved distribution line, meters, and transformers to restore its system that suffered $100 million in damages from Hurricane Katrina.  This project will help the residents of Hancock, Harrison, and Pearl River counties in their rebuilding efforts from Hurricane Katrina. 

“Mississippi’s Gulf Coast has come a long way since Katrina, but the job is not finished,” Senator Wicker said.  “The federal government still has work to do to help the Coast rebuild.  I am glad this loan was approved, as it represents an investment in infrastructure that will help Coast Electric’s members and enhance rebuilding efforts.” 

USDA Rural Development serves as the lead federal entity for rural development needs and aims to increase economic opportunity and improve the quality of life in rural America.