USDA Rural Development State Director Colleen Landkamer today announced funding for the construction of a new fire hall in the city of Kenyon, Minn.
“Providing critical infrastructure for public safety facilities is vital for community,” said Landkamer. “USDA Rural Development invests in these types of projects to ensure the health and safety of our rural communities.”
The Kenyon Volunteer Fire Department consists of 30 volunteers who serve nearly 3,000 local community members over a 90-square mile radius across six townships, including: Kenyon, Richland, Holden, Cherry Grove, Warsaw, and Wheeling.
The Fire Department is currently housed in several locations to accommodate the fleet of fire equipment and vehicles necessary for the service area. Multiple locations and the gravel alleyway of the main facility that is shared with residential traffic slows down emergency response time and drives the need for construction of a new facility.
The new 12,560 square foot facility will be able to house all ten vehicles and provide a meeting space, accessible rest rooms, and office space – allowing for the entire Department to be housed under one roof and assure local residents faster emergency response times.
The new site will allow for the safe maneuvering of emergency response vehicles, minimize disruptions to neighboring property owners, and enhance the visual appearance of the area.
USDA funding comes in the form of a $2.9 million direct loan through Rural Development’s Community Facilities program. Since 2009, USDA Rural Development has invested over $431 million in loans and grants to build or improve over 350 essential community facilities throughout rural Minnesota.
Rural Development also invests in housing, water and wastewater treatment, businesses, renewable energy and high-speed Internet. To learn more about Rural Development programs, visit www.rd.usda.gov/mn, or call the area office in Faribault, Minn. at (507) 332-7418, ext. 4.