Rural Infrastructure Program (RIP)
The Rural Infrastructure Program funds science-driven water, wastewater, and solid waste projects in rural New Mexico, supporting critical infrastructure upgrades through the New Mexico Environment Department.
Funder: New Mexico Environment Department
Due Dates: Rolling (Applications accepted year-round)
Funding Amounts: Up to $2 million per year per entity; low-interest loans (1% interest, up to 20 years); principal forgiveness up to 90% for qualifying projects.
Summary: Provides low-interest loans to rural New Mexico communities for water, wastewater, and solid waste infrastructure projects.
Key Information: Program is open continuously; loan funds available within 8 weeks of complete application, subject to capacity.
Description
The Rural Infrastructure Program (RIP), administered by the New Mexico Environment Department (NMED), offers low-interest loans to rural communities across New Mexico. The program targets essential infrastructure projects related to water, wastewater, and solid waste, supporting planning, design, construction, and related activities. RIP aims to empower small municipalities, counties, and water associations by financing critical improvements such as pipelines, treatment plant upgrades, system rehabilitation, pollution control, and solid waste facilities, ensuring compliance with state and local environmental standards.
