Secretary Rollins Announces Major Investment in Tennessee’s Rural Communities
(Lebanon, TN, August 18, 2025) – U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins today announced nearly $89 million in Congressionally directed investments for 13 rural development projects in communities across the State of Tennessee. These projects, coordinated by USDA Rural Development (RD), will promote strong partnerships and invest in critical infrastructure as well as educational opportunities for rural Tennesseans.
“We are working every day at USDA to ensure our family farmers have the tools and markets to keep farming for generations to come. Rural Tennessee helps feed and fuel America and the world, and President Trump is committed to investing in these communities so they continue to be productive and fulfilling places to live for generations to come. If our farmers and ranchers do not have the resources to continue to farm, then we cannot feed ourselves. President Trump understands how important it is to have a safe, secure, and resilient farm economy,” said Secretary Brooke Rollins.
“What happens in rural Tennessee matters to all Tennesseans, and this significant investment in our rural communities will strengthen farmland preservation, enhance infrastructure, and expand educational opportunities for the next generation of farmers. I’m grateful for Secretary Rollins’ partnership to create greater opportunity for families across Tennessee,” said Tennessee Governor Bill Lee.
“Tennessee farmland should be used to grow the crops that feed our state and country, not to house solar panels made by foreign countries like Communist China. Secretary Rollins and President Trump are right to put an end to these Green New Deal subsidies that waste taxpayer dollars while threatening America’s food security. I applaud this administration for investing in rural communities across Tennessee and empowering them to prosper for years to come,” said Tennessee Senator Marsha Blackburn.
"Agriculture is the leading industry in Tennessee. That's in large part due to the hard work that goes on every day in our rural communities to provide the food and fiber we all depend on. I applaud President Trump and Secretary Rollins for making these investments in our growers and producers. These investments will result in economic opportunities for families across Tennessee and support our state's next generation of farmers,” said Representative John Rose (TN-06).
Rural Development Investment in Tennessee:
By the Numbers:
- Total Investment: $89 million
- Projects Funded: 13
- Sectors Impacted/Counties Impacted: 28
For investment specifics, please email press@usda.gov or visit www.rd.usda.gov.
About USDA Rural Development
USDA Rural Development invests in rural America with loan, grant, and loan guarantee programs to promote rural prosperity. The commitment and resources we bring to rural communities help drive economic security and prosperity. Our programs expand access to high-speed internet, electric, and transportation infrastructure, and support business growth, healthcare, education, housing, and other community essentials. Learn more online at www.rd.usda.gov.
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