NEW GLARUS — The Village of New Glarus will receive $2.3 million to increase water quality and capacity thanks to a new USDA Rural Development is loan.

The loan investment is through the USDA’s Rural Development’s Water and Waste Loan and Grant program. The money is intended to go towards building a new above-ground water storage tank, as well as upgrading pre-existing utility and data systems, a press release said.

The new water reservoir — the second in the village — will increase water capacity by 300,000 gallons. 

“That program is designed to really address water systems across the country, in rural America, and really help communities grow and thrive because it’s bringing clean water and also addressing wastewater disposal as well,” said Dr. Basil Gooden, the USDA under secretary for Rural Development. 

New Glarus officials said the money should mean additional capabilities to fight fires, improve infrastructure, beatification and cleanliness.  

Project expects to break ground later this year, according to the state director of the USDA Rural Development.