A $100,000 grant for the Eagles Manor III housing project in Helena is included in the Transportation, Housing, and Urban Development Appropriations bill, Rep. Denny Rehberg said in a press release Wednesday. A Rocky Mountain Development Council official said preliminary work has begun on the $6.3 million project.

Rehberg's appropriation could mean RMDC has to borrow less money for the project, lowering rent for future residents, Community Development Director Jeff Miller said.

"The Eagles Manor project is essential to providing affordable housing in the Helena area. These funds will help get this program on its feet," Rehberg said in a press release. The Republican congressman sits on the House Appropriations Committee.

The bill moved through the committee Wednesday and will go to the House floor in coming weeks, a Rehberg spokesman said.

The Eagles Manor III project will include 30 one-bedroom units designed to accommodate low and very-low income seniors ages 62 and older, and other adults with special needs able to live independently.

"We're very delighted that we got this much support, and it will go to a much-needed project," Miller said.

Golden Eagle Construction of Helena is the general contractor for the project.