Commerce Awards Grant Funding for Tourism-Related Emergency Service Projects

HELENA, Mont. – The Montana Department of Commerce announced today that 10 local safety agencies will share $500,000 of grant funding to support tourism-related emergency service projects in rural areas. The funding is through Commerce’s Montana Emergency Tourism Assistance Grant Program.

“Emergency services are important to Montana communities, especially in our rural areas. At Commerce, we’re proud to help support those who are there to help people who may be in dangerous situations,” said Commerce Director Marta Bertoglio.

The METAP Program is designed to support services provided by public or private safety agencies including law enforcement, firefighting and ambulance or medical services.

The following will receive METAP grant funding:

• Custer County Fire will receive $50,000 to purchase a self-contained breathing apparatus cascade system.

• Hebgen Basin Fire District will receive $50,000 to purchase an emergency medical service vehicle.

• The Libby Police Department will receive $50,000 to purchase a new patrol vehicle.

• Miles City Fire and Rescue will receive $50,000 to purchase a fire engine.

• Missoula Rural Fire District will receive $50,000 to purchase two emergency watercrafts.

• Ryegate Volunteer Fire Department will receive $50,000 to purchase fire turnout gear.

• The City of Shelby/Shelby Fire Department will receive $50,000 for a Shelby Fire Department radio upgrade.

• Sun Prairie Rural Fire Department will receive $50,000 to purchase extrication tools.

• Three Mile Fire Department will receive $50,000 to purchase a fire vehicle.

• Virginia City Volunteer Fire Department will receive $50,000 to purchase self-contained breathing apparatus replacements.

Eligible applicants for METAP funding include rural incorporated cities or towns, counties, consolidated governments, tribal governments and any entity that provides emergency services or response units to a rural area. METAP is a state-funded opportunity authorized by the 2023 Montana Legislature’s enactment of Senate Bill 540.