WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Congressman Bart Stupak (D-Menominee) announced four grants totaling $149,000 for community facility projects in Houghton, Forsyth Township in Marquette County, Iron County and Menominee County.  The funding was awarded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development program.

“These grants will provide new equipment to keep these communities safer and running more efficiently,” Stupak said.  “I am pleased the USDA continues to provide funding to ensure rural facilities across Northern Michigan can continue to provide critical services in their communities.”

The following grants were awarded:

The city of Houghton received $48,000 to purchase a street sander and a trackless sidewalk plow.  With annual snowfall of 300 inches, reliable equipment is necessary to keep streets and sidewalks clear.

Forsyth Township in Marquette County received $39,000 to purchase a new ambulance for the Forsyth Township EMS.  The existing ambulance is aging and in need of replacement.

Iron County received $12,000 to purchase a new sheriff patrol vehicle.  The existing vehicle has excessive mileage and is past its useful emergency response life.

Menominee County received $50,000 to purchase an HVAC system at the Menominee County Correctional Facility.  The current HVAC system is outdated and inefficient.

The USDA Community Facilities program provides grants to assist in the development of essential community facilities in rural areas.  Funds can be used to construct, enlarge, or improve community facilities for health care, public safety, and community and public services.

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