USDA Rural Development Participates in Fire Truck Delivery Ceremony in Williamston

(Williamston, N.C., October 1, 2026) - Members of the U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development North Carolina team are participating in a fire truck delivery ceremony with Williamston Fire Department today.

The town of Williamston utilized a $1 million USDA Rural Development Community Facilities Grant to purchase a new E-ONE HR 100-foot aerial ladder truck. This new fire truck will significantly expand the operational safety, versatility, and tactical reach of the Williamston Fire Department.

Rural departments often face unique challenges, such as tight unpaved driveways, limited personnel, lack of municipal fire hydrants, and a growing number of multi-story structures like modern commercial centers or large agricultural complexes. Having the most up-to-date technology and equipment helps to face and defeat these challenges head on.

"In an emergency, every second matters, and this new aerial ladder truck will significantly boost the Williamston Fire Department's tactical reach and response capabilities," said USDA Rural Development Director of State Operations Robert Hosford. "This $1 million investment aligns perfectly with President Trump's commitment to supporting first responders and ensuring that our rural communities have the cutting-edge equipment they need to face unique challenges head-on. Under the President's leadership and Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins' dedication to rural America, USDA is proud to help protect local citizens, support our brave firefighting crews, and build safer, stronger communities in North Carolina."

USDA's Community Facilities Loan and Grant Program provides affordable funding to develop essential community facilities in rural areas. An essential community facility is defined as a facility that provides an essential service to the local community for the orderly development of the community in a primarily rural area, and does not include private, commercial or business undertakings.

To learn more about USDA Rural Development programs, visit https://www.rd.usda.gov/nc.

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