Congressman Ryan Zinke today announced a slate of 15 infrastructure, law enforcement, and rural development projects across Western Montana, requesting federal funding totaling $64,619,833. The funding requests, submitted to the House Appropriations Committee on which Zinke serves, target community improvements spanning 13 counties, including Beaverhead, Flathead, Gallatin, Granite, Lake, Lincoln, Missoula, Mineral, Powell, Ravalli, and Sanders.
“These investments address years of neglect in rural America’s infrastructure,” Zinke said. “Working closely with local leaders—county commissioners, mayors, and sheriffs—we identified shovel-ready projects that directly meet community needs and offer high returns for Montana taxpayers. From law enforcement enhancements and clean water access to repairing failing infrastructure and supporting economic growth, these projects will build a stronger Montana and provide safer, healthier communities for generations.”
Among the counties benefiting, Lake, Lincoln, Missoula, Mineral, Ravalli, and Sanders counties each have multiple projects nominated, reflecting diverse priorities ranging from public safety upgrades to water system improvements and economic development initiatives.
The funding nominations were submitted under the U.S. House Community Project Funding program, a mechanism that directs appropriations to specific local projects. Each proposal must meet strict grant criteria and clear multiple legislative approvals, including the House Appropriations Committee, the full House, and Senate, before receiving presidential sign-off.
In Fiscal Year 2024, Zinke successfully secured $35 million for Western Montana projects, doubling down on his commitment to address rural infrastructure needs across the region.
By: DNU staff