Grant Menke, USDA Rural Development State Director in Iowa, participated in a groundbreaking event in Albia to celebrate the start of a large expansion and renovation project at Monroe County Hospital and Clinics.
The estimated $19 million expansion and remodeling project is being funded primarily through a $16.5 million USDA Development’s Community Facilities direct loan program. Funding from the program helps rural areas purchase, construct or improve essential facilities such as schools, libraries, health care facilities, childcare centers and infrastructure.
“We are excited to be a partner in this project at Monroe County Hospital and Clinics,” said Grant Menke, USDA Rural Development State Director in Iowa. “Helping rural communities provide easy access to quality health care is an important emphasis at USDA Rural Development. Projects like these only come together through partnerships, dedication and the coordinated efforts of many people working toward the same goal.”
The project will include such things as a more accessible waiting room, new parking, covered entrance, an expanded space for consultations, wellness visits and specialty clinics, as well as an updated pharmacy and specialty services area. The hospital was originally formed in 1909 and moved to its current location in 1982. The facility has undergone many upgrades and expansions during the past 36 years. This expansion will be the largest in the hospital’s 109-year history.
Along with a USDA Community Facilities direct loan, the project is receiving funding through contributions from the hospital, tax exempt bonds and USDA’s Rural Economic Development loan and grant program.
“USDA Rural Development is focused on bringing economic development and prosperity to rural America through improved infrastructure, enhanced innovation and expanded partnerships,” Menke added. “We are proud to serve the needs of rural people and places to ensure that rural America continues to thrive and drive the economy.”
USDA Rural Development provides loans and grants to help expand economic opportunities and create jobs in rural areas. This assistance supports infrastructure improvements; business development; housing; community services such as schools, public safety and health care; and high-speed internet access in rural areas.
Contact USDA Rural Development
For more information about finance programs available through USDA Rural Development, please call the office located in Albia at (641) 932-3031 Ext. 4. This office serves communities, businesses and residents in Appanoose, Davis, Jasper, Lucas, Mahaska, Marion, Monroe, Poweshiek, Wapello and WayneCounties.
USDA Rural Development has 11 offices across the state to serve the 1.7 million Iowans living in rural communities and areas. Office locations include a State Office in Des Moines, along with Area Offices in Albia, Atlantic, Humboldt, Indianola, Iowa Falls, Le Mars, Mount Pleasant, Storm Lake, Tipton and Waverly.
Further information on programs available through USDA Rural Development is available by visiting the agency’s web site at www.rd.usda.gov/ia.