USDA Awards $450,000 for New Fire Engine in Genoa

(Stevens Point, Wis., October 28, 2026) - U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development Wisconsin State Director Andrew C. Iverson announced a $450,000 grant to help the town of Genoa buy a new fire engine for its volunteer fire department.

"Volunteer firefighters play a vital role in protecting rural communities," Iverson said. "This new engine will help ensure the Town of Genoa Volunteer Fire Department has the tools and resources needed to keep residents safe."

"Just because we choose to live in rural communities doesn't mean we deserve any less," said Representative Bryan Steil (WI-01). "Our families deserve world-class emergency services and public safety, no matter where they call home. I'm proud to bring this funding home to our community and support our brave first responders who work diligently to ensure our communities are safe. The people of Western Wisconsin deserve to know that their voices matter, their needs are heard, and their tax dollars are coming back to make a difference in the communities we're proud to call home."

The town of Genoa is using USDA's Community Facilities Program funding to replace its 30-year-old fire engine, ensuring the volunteer fire department can continue providing reliable emergency services. The program offers affordable financing for essential rural facilities that support community safety and development. For more information about the Community Facilities Direct Loan and Grant Program, contact a USDA Rural Development community program specialist in Wisconsin at [email protected].

USDA Rural Development invests in rural America with loan, grant, and loan guarantee programs to promote rural prosperity. Our programs expand access to high-speed internet, electric, and transportation infrastructure, and support business 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/wi.

###

USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer and lender.