Congressman Zinke Delivers Over $5.9 Million in Federal Funding for Infrastructure, Law Enforcement, and First Responders in Ravalli, Mineral, and Lake Counties

HAMILTON, MT - Today, Western Montana Congressman Ryan Zinke traveled to Ronan, Superior, and Hamilton to deliver ceremonial checks celebrating more than $5.9 million in federal funding for critical infrastructure and public safety projects. The funding is part of the over $35 million he secured in fiscal year 2026 as a part of the appropriations process.

"Montana communities thrive when our infrastructure is strong and our first responders are ready for anything," said Rep. Zinke. "Upgrades to wastewater systems in Ravalli County will protect our rivers and keep towns healthy. Firefighters and law enforcement in Lake and Mineral County are receiving the equipment they need to keep families safe. My goal is to make sure the front lines have the recourses they need to do the job, and these investments accomplish that goal."

The day started in Ronan, where Zinke delivered $547,500 to the Ronan Volunteer Fire Department to purchase a new Type 1 fire truck and $200,000 for Lake County's Law Enforcement Resiliency Project, which will help purchase new police vehicles and equipment for Lake County law enforcement.

"Volunteer firefighters are often the first to respond when our community needs help, and having reliable equipment can make all the difference," said Ronan Mayor and Lieutenant Volunteer Firefighter Ryan Corum. "This new Type 1 fire truck will strengthen our ability to respond to fires and emergencies across the Ronan area. We appreciate Congressman Zinke's support for rural fire departments and his recognition of the important role volunteers play in keeping our communities safe."

Zinke then traveled to Superior to drop of a $725,000 check for law enforcement upgrades and patrol vehicles for Mineral County.

"Ryan Zinke's office has demonstrated exceptional professionalism and a clear commitment to supporting rural communities," said Mineral County Sherrif Ryan Funke. "Their dedication to ensuring small counties are not overlooked was evident through the appropriation grant awarded to the Mineral County Sheriff' Office. That support helped make possible a five-county MOU that will strengthen cooperation and public safety across the region. It's a strong example of how responsive leadership at the federal level can directly benefit local law enforcement and the citizens we serve in Mineral County."

Later in Hamilton, Zinke delivered $2,500,000 for the construction of a new Ravalli County Wastewater Treatment Plant, $1,000,000 to repair Old Corvallis Road, and $1,000,000 to replace the Groff Lane Bridge.

"Ravalli County is the fastest-growing county in Montana and keeping up with that growth means investing in reliable infrastructure," said Ravalli County Commissioner Jeff Burrows. "Projects like the new wastewater treatment plant, improvements to Old Corvallis Road, and the replacement of the Groff Lane Bridge will improve safety, protect our natural resources, and support the needs of our growing communities. We appreciate Congressman Zinke's work to secure this funding and deliver real results for Ravalli County."

Zinke was joined by local officials and first responders throughout the day, including Ronan Mayor Ryan Corum, Lake County Sheriff Don Bell, members of the Ronan Volunteer Fire Department, Mineral County Commissioners Roman Zylawy, Shawn Smalley, Duane Simmons, Mineral County Sheriff Ryan Funke, Ravalli County Commissioner Jeff Burrows, and members of the Ravalli County Road Department.

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