Whitefield, N.H. — Yesterday, Congresswoman Annie Kuster (NH-02) visited Whitefield, New Hampshire, to discuss her support for the Northern Border Regional Commission (NBRC)’s investments in New Hampshire’s rural communities as well as funding she helped secure through Congressionally Directed Spending (CDS). During the visit, Kuster toured the Affordable Housing Education and Development (AHEAD)’s 12 King Square housing project, the Whitefield Library, and met with representatives from the Ammonoosuc Community Health Services facility.

“It was wonderful meeting with local leaders in Whitefield today to see how the town is benefiting from federal resources to revitalize the downtown area and support investments in health care services and other community projects,” said Kuster. “From growing the town’s affordable housing stock to expanding health care services and renovating vital community spaces like the town library, these projects represent the positive impact empowering our local communities has on our state.”

"These funds are an impactful investment in our region, and the NBRC is excited to help improve access to affordable housing in the communities that need it most, and we appreciate Congresswoman Kuster’s tireless support for the NBRC’s important work,” said Chris Saunders, Federal Co-Chair of the Northern Border Regional Commission. “The Northern Border Regional Commission (NBRC) Catalyst grants enable these community partnerships to take root and grow, building stakeholder capacity and putting funds directly to work within our communities."

“AHEAD is excited to partner with members of the Whitefield community on the 12 King Square project, said Harrison Kanzler, Executive Director of Affordable Housing Education & Development (AHEAD). “This effort, spearheaded by local community members and leaders, serves the dual purpose of beautifying the town’s center while creating affordable housing for local hardworking families.”

“Thanks to our passionate and community-minded staff and volunteers, the Whitefield Public Library has evolved its offerings to support the needs of our community members,” said Courtney Vashaw, Librarian, Whitefield Public Library. “The planned renovations – a heating/cooling space, ADA-accessible entrance and restroom, creation of a central meeting space – all directly address the needs of our community members, and we are thankful for Congresswoman Kuster’s efforts to secure the funding to make these important renovations possible.”

Kuster is a fierce supporter of economic development projects and initiatives that invest in the well-being of rural communities. As part of her visit, Kuster highlighted her support for the NBRC and the critical role the partnership plays in providing economic assistance and expanding opportunities for rural communities in northern and western New Hampshire.

Kuster helped secure funding for three community development projects: 

• The AHEAD 12 King Square Project, which received $750,000 through the NBRC to rehabilitate the 12 King Square building and construct much-needed residential and commercial units;
• The Whitefield Public Library Renovation and Expansion Project, which Kuster secured $500,000 through CDS to renovate the library to serve as a heating and cooling space during extreme weather events, install an ADA-accessible entrance and restrooms, and a local meeting space for the community; and
• The Ammonoosuc Community Health Services Building, which Kuster requested $500,000 through CDS to build a new primary care facility, which will include a new pharmacy, teaching kitchen, community room, and clinical office spaces.

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