(Stevens Point, Wis., June 1, 2026) – U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development Wisconsin State Director Andrew C. Iverson announced today that the agency is awarding the city of Prairie du Chien with a nearly $5 million grant for the construction of a new joint facility for the police and fire departments. Once completed, this project will enhance the coordination between the departments and improve public safety for more than 5,500 people.

“Firefighters and police officers are vital to keeping communities safe,” said Iverson. “President Donald Trump and Secretary Rollins have made it a priority to ensure first responders have the resources and infrastructure necessary to protect rural Wisconsinites.”

The new facility will feature a modern, shared training and fitness center designed to support the readiness of both departments. The police department’s dedicated space will include vehicle storage and office space, while the fire departments will benefit from apparatus bays, decontamination space, living quarters and office spaces. Bringing both departments under one roof will strengthen collaboration between the two departments, streamline operations, and reduce overall operating costs, ultimately enhancing public safety for the community.

USDA Rural Development’s Community Facilities Programs provided the city with a $4,950,000 grant. 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.

Learn more online at www.rd.usda.gov/wi, subscribe to GovDelivery updates, and follow us on X at @RD_Wisconsin.