$400,000 in Grants Awarded to Montana Coal-Impacted Communities

HELENA, Mont. – In a significant boost to local infrastructure, the Montana Department of Commerce has announced the allocation of over $400,000 in grants to three communities affected by coal industry shifts. The Montana Coal Board facilitated the dispersal of these funds to aid projects that maintain and enhance public utilities and safety in areas impacted by the coal sector.

Acting Director Mandy Rambo noted the Coal Board has distributed over $15 million in the last five years, supporting varied projects across counties, cities, schools, and tribal lands to cope with the environmental and economic impacts of coal operations. The grant recipients for this cycle include:

– Big Horn County, granted $155,620.87 for essential replacements of boilers and fire systems at the Big Horn County Library.
– The City of Forsyth, receiving $200,000 to construct a new water tank and install a relevant booster pump, enhancing water supply infrastructure.
– The Town of Winnett, awarded $50,000 for a new dump truck, vital for local municipality operations.

These grants underscore the ongoing commitment to facilitating government services and infrastructure in coal-impacted communities. The assistance extends to ensuring adequate educational environments, roadway safety, and essential utility services, primarily fueled by the changing dynamics of coal consumption and mining.

The Montana Coal Board, established in 1975 and attached administratively to the Department of Commerce, continues to play a pivotal role in supporting communities directly affected by coal development fluctuations. For further information on the projects and the impact of these grants, visit the Department of Commerce website.