The City of Audubon has been selected to receive a $2.8 million low-interest loan from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development to construct a new station for the Audubon Fire Department. The project includes an 11,700 sq. ft. pre-engineered metal building with four bays, workspace for firefighters, and equipment and supply storage areas. For the past several years, the City of Audubon has attempted to build a new station due to space constraints caused by the size of new firefighting vehicles, including two failed bond referendums for the project. Federal officials approved the city’s loan application, indicating the new fire station will improve the Audubon Fire Department’s ability to respond to emergencies and promote community safety. USDA Rural Development State Director Theresa Greenfield says, “From hospitals to fire stations to supporting small businesses, USDA is investing in rural Iowa. Under the leadership of President Biden, Vice President Harris, and Secretary Vilsack, USDA is working with local leaders to build and grow their communities.” The City of Audubon loan was part of a recent investment by the USDA of $29 million in loans and grants into rural Iowa projects.
