CUMBERLAND, Wis., May 17, 2020 – U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development representatives joined Cumberland Healthcare, Compeer Bank, Wendel Companies and Wisconsin Hospital Association at a groundbreaking today to celebrate the start of construction on a new healthcare campus.
“Helping rural communities gain easy access to quality healthcare is an important emphasis at USDA Rural Development,” Acting State Director Michelle Wallace said. “Congratulations on this wonderful project which will improve healthcare opportunities for rural residents in northwestern Wisconsin.”
In Barron County, Wis., Cumberland Healthcare will use a $35 million direct, low-interest loan and $5 million in loan guarantee funding to construct a hospital facility. The existing facility and equipment have become antiquated and does not adequately address the area's current medical needs. The new facility will enhance access to and delivery of healthcare for an expanded regional area, providing crucial local healthcare options for patients. Plans include increased support for outpatient services as well as new and improved spaces for orthopedists, podiatrists, oncologists, ear, nose and throat specialists, family practice, cardiologists and expansion of the outpatient and day surgery functionality.
The proposed campus will be completed in March 2023 and will replace the current facility which is 60 years old. The facility will include 100,000 square feet for both the hospital and ambulatory care facilities. The site was specifically selected to include planned space for future long-term care facilities as well as elderly residential development.
USDA is funding this project through the Community Facilities Direct Loan and Grant Program. More than 100 types of projects are eligible for Community Facilities funding such as building or upgrading schools, libraries, clinics and public safety facilities. Eligible applicants include municipalities, public bodies, nonprofit organizations and federally recognized Native American tribes. Projects must be in rural areas with a population of 20,000 or less.
USDA Rural Development provides loans and grants to help expand economic opportunities and create jobs in rural areas. This assistance supports infrastructure improvements; business development; housing; community facilities such as schools, public safety and health care; and high-speed internet access in rural areas. For more information, visit www.rd.usda.gov/wi, call us at 715-345-7600 or email wi-rd-stateoffice@usda.gov.
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