USDA Celebrates Opening of New Critical Access Hospital in Harlowton

(Harlowton, Mont., February 23, 2026) - Today, U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development Montana State Director Bill Warden celebrates the opening of a new medical facility for Wheatland Memorial Healthcare, doing business as Vista Plains Health, in Harlowton.

"Exceptional attention and care has gone into the planning and construction of this hospital and its completion is a testament to the leadership of Wheatland Memorial Healthcare and their devotion to rural Montana," said Warden. "This project demonstrates USDA's commitment to rural healthcare and ensuring America's small communities have the very best services available to them."

USDA Rural Development invested a total of $17,764,000 in loans and grants to help build the new 38,000 square feet critical access hospital. This funding works in partnership with Farmers State Bank in Victor, Montana, which provided a $3,700,000 loan guarantee with USDA for the project. The local community also played a large role in the fruition of this facility by donating more than $1,000,000 through local campaign drives. Modern, responsive care is central to the design of the new facility, which serves Wheatland County and the surrounding communities.

USDA's Community Facilities Programs offer direct loans, loan guarantees, and grants for public service buildings to improve the quality of life, develop and sustain rural America. USDA's financial support enhances the competitiveness of our rural communities to attract and retain businesses that provide employment and services for residents.

USDA Rural Development invests in rural America with programs to promote rural prosperity. These programs expand access to high-speed internet, electricity and transportation infrastructure, and support economic growth, healthcare, education, housing and other community essentials. Discover more investment details and historical data in the Rural Data Gateway and learn more about the agency at www.rd.usda.gov .

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