(Stevens Point, Wis., July 6, 2026) – U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development Wisconsin State Director Andrew C. Iverson announced today that the agency is awarding the city of Lancaster with a $1.125 million grant to renovate its existing fire and rescue station. The building is the headquarters for the Lancaster Fire Department and Emergency Medical Services. Nearly 4,000 rural Wisconsinites will benefit from the project.  

“Firefighters and rescue teams provide essential services and are critical to saving lives and keeping communities safe,” said Iverson. “President Donald Trump and Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins are leading the effort to ensure first responders have the resources needed to protect rural Wisconsinites.”

Renovations to the 30-year-old building will extend the life of the emergency services center for the next 25 years. Building updates will include heating and cooling, plumbing, power distribution and back-up power supply. The project also adds several new features, such as exhaust fans, monitors, dehumidifiers, an elevator, emergency lighting, Wi-Fi, enhanced security equipment, sleeping areas, gear storage area, decontamination laundry and showers, office area, commercial kitchen equipment, and a workout area.  

USDA Rural Development’s Community Facilities programs is providing the city with a grant for the project. The Community Facilities programs offer direct loans, loan guarantees and grants to develop or improve essential public services and facilities in communities across rural America. These investments strengthen critical community infrastructure, enhance quality of life, and help rural towns attract and retain businesses and services. To learn more about these programs, contact WI.RD.CP.SO@usda.gov.

For more information on USDA Rural Development investments in rural America, visit the Rural Data Gateway. The Rural Data Gateway is an online tool that strengthens USDA Rural Development partnerships with rural people, entrepreneurs, government officials and Congress by making investment data accessible to the public.

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