RIVER FALLS – The City of River Falls received $1,401,000 in the federal appropriations legislation signed into law by President Biden on March 9, 2024. This funding, which was secured by Sen. Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) and Rep. Derrick Van Orden (R-WI, 3), will support vital renovations at the River Falls Fire Station. 

In 2017, the City of River Falls commissioned feasibility studies to analyze the capacity needs and overall condition of the fire station, which was initially constructed in the 1950s. The studies concluded that significant portions of the structure were beyond their useful life and in need of replacement. 

The project is expected to include a partial demolition of the existing facility, construction of a new apparatus bay, and minor modifications to the remaining existing structure. The upgrades and added capacity will be essential to supporting the work of the nearly 50 members of the department. Design work is expected to begin this year. 

“We want to extend a heartfelt thank-you to Sen. Baldwin and Sen. Van Orden for prioritizing not just the safety of our community, but improving the working conditions of our dedicated department members,” Mayor Dan Toland said. 

Federal funding for this project was secured by Sen. Baldwin and Rep. Van Orden in the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2024. Funding was explicitly directed to the City of River Falls through the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Community Facilities Program. 

Submitted by City of River Falls