Iowa is set to receive $152 million in federal funding aimed at enhancing rural development through 19 projects statewide. This significant investment, described by U.S. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins as “unprecedented,” is designed to stimulate economic growth, generate private investment, and improve rural infrastructure.
Rollins announced the funding during a visit to the Iowa State Fair on August 9, where she also participated in the Governor’s Charity Steer Show. She emphasized the importance of supporting rural America, stating, “where the real American spirit lives and thrives and was born and must continue.”
The initiative focuses on various sectors, including healthcare and infrastructure. A notable allocation within the funding is a $37 million loan to Guthrie County Hospital for the expansion and renovation of its facilities. The project will add a 16,000-square-foot wing that includes essential upgrades such as a behavioral health room, MRI room, exam rooms, and new lab space.
In addition to healthcare resources, the funding will also support improvements in transportation, water, and wastewater systems. For instance, Bondurant has received a $2.5 million grant to construct a new elevated water tower to enhance water supply stability for its residents.
Another aspect of the announcement included the USDA’s recent organizational changes, with plans to transition its Washington-area offices to more centralized locations around the country. Rollins noted that while the USDA maintains important facilities in D.C., the shift aims to “move the power out of Washington,” allowing for closer service to constituents.
On a positive note for Iowa’s future, Rollins highlighted President Donald Trump’s nomination of Glen Smith from Atlantic as the USDA under secretary for rural development. Smith’s prior experience includes serving on the Farm Credit Administration Board of Directors, and he is a graduate of Iowa State University. Both Rollins and Governor Kim Reynolds expressed confidence in his capabilities to advocate for Iowa farmers in this new leadership position.
These developments reflect a significant commitment to enhancing rural life and addressing the specific needs of these communities, potentially opening up new opportunities for growth and sustainability in Iowa.