Montana Department of Commerce Awards $1.4 Million to Boost Rural Emergency Services

The Montana Department of Commerce announced today that 26 rural safety agencies will receive more than $1.4 million in grant funding to enhance emergency service capabilities in areas experiencing increased tourism. The funding, allocated through the Montana Emergency Tourism Assistance Grant Program (METAP), aims to strengthen public safety across rural communities.

“Emergency services are critical in rural areas of the state that may have experienced an increase in visitation recently,” said Paul Green, Director of the Montana Department of Commerce. “At Commerce, we’re proud to support first responders and others who help save lives and improve public safety in our rural communities.”

The METAP program assists public and private safety agencies, including law enforcement, fire departments, and emergency medical services. Grants will fund critical equipment upgrades, vehicle acquisitions, and tools to improve response times and safety outcomes.

• Beaverhead Rural Fire District #2: $69,344 for a Type 5 wildland fire engine.
• Big Horn County Search and Rescue: $65,948 for a drone, Polaris Rangers, and a Medlite transport bed.
• Cooke City Silver Gate Emergency Services: $75,000 for a wildland fire truck.
• Libby Volunteer Fire Department: $75,000 for a self-contained breathing apparatus compressor system.
• Paradise Valley Fire and Emergency Services: $57,395 for rescue and extrication tools.
• Polson Fire Department: $66,000 for advanced life support equipment, including cardiac monitors and auto-pulse devices.

The grants also include funding for search and rescue vehicles, police patrol cars, and specialized equipment for firefighting and medical response.

Eligible recipients include rural municipalities, counties, tribal governments, and emergency service providers. The program was made possible through Senate Bill 540, enacted by the 2023 Legislature, and highlights the state’s commitment to supporting rural areas as they accommodate increased visitor numbers.

“The METAP program is a lifeline for small communities,” said Green. “It ensures that emergency responders have the resources they need to protect both residents and visitors.”

By: Big Sky Headlines staff