Ten local safety agencies across Montana will share $500,000 in state grant funding to upgrade emergency equipment and vehicles, the Montana Department of Commerce announced Thursday.
The awards come through the Montana Emergency Tourism Assistance Grant Program, known as METAP, which is designed to help rural public safety agencies — including law enforcement, fire and emergency medical services — handle the demands that tourism places on communities with limited resources.
Each of the 10 recipients will receive $50,000. The grants will fund a range of equipment needs, from fire engines and patrol vehicles to breathing apparatus and water rescue craft:
Custer County Fire will purchase a self-contained breathing apparatus cascade system. Hebgen Basin Fire District will acquire an emergency medical service vehicle. The Libby Police Department will replace a patrol vehicle. Miles City Fire and Rescue will purchase a fire engine. Missoula Rural Fire District will add two emergency watercrafts. Ryegate Volunteer Fire Department will purchase fire turnout gear. The City of Shelby will fund a radio system upgrade for its fire department. Sun Prairie Rural Fire Department will acquire extrication tools. Three Mile Fire Department will purchase a fire vehicle. Virginia City Volunteer Fire Department will replace self-contained breathing apparatus.
“Emergency services are important to Montana communities, especially in our rural areas,” said Commerce Director Marta Bertoglio. “At Commerce, we’re proud to help support those who are there to help people who may be in dangerous situations.”
METAP was authorized by the 2023 Montana Legislature through Senate Bill 540. Eligible applicants include rural cities and towns, counties, consolidated governments, tribal governments and any entity providing emergency response services to a rural area.
Montana’s outdoor recreation economy draws millions of visitors annually, placing recurring strain on rural emergency services that are often volunteer-run and operating with aging equipment.
By: DNU staff