United States Department of Agriculture Acting State Director for Rural Development Kansas Dan Fischer Wednesday announced that USDA is investing $3.51 million to equip, rebuild, and modernize essential services in rural areas of Kansas. The investments will directly benefit more than 13,000 Kansans.

In the area, a $76,000 grant will be used to repair and upgrade several areas of the existing Sterling Medical Center in Sterling. Upgrades will include mechanical, plumbing, electrical, foundation and structural systems. Once complete, this facility will provide the community with access to new and improved health care services.

Other recipients included:

• Spearville – A $1,392,000 loan will cover the increased cost of construction materials on a senior living campus consisting of 14 units of skilled nursing and 12 apartments for assisted living.

• Alma – A $303,300 grant and a $1,173,700 loan will be used to replace portions of the existing gas supply line that runs along Kansas Highway 99 between the city of Wamego and Interstate 70.

• Altamont – A $260,000 loan will be used to purchase a commercial fire truck for use by the city of Altamont and Mount Pleasant Township. 

• Humboldt – A $50,000 grant and a $255,000 loan will be used to purchase a custom fire apparatus pumper.