DENVER, Colo., August 25, 2022 – Today, U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)
State Director for Colorado Armando Valdez announced the investment of a $16,172,000
Community Facilities Loan for the Southeast Colorado Hospital District (SECHD) in
Springfield, Colorado. The funding will be used for renovation and the addition of
medical facilities at the current hospital.

“Having sustainable and accessible health care infrastructure in rural areas is critical to
the health and well-being of people living in small towns across Colorado. The current
hospital in Springfield is spread across two buildings dating back to the 1950s. This
renovation will allow SECHD to alleviate health disparities in the community and adapt
and modify their services to meet the community’s needs. For rural communities to thrive
and grow, these essential services need to be available. I am excited that USDA-Rural
Development is a partner on this project that will benefit Baca County and the Southeast
Colorado Hospital District,” said Valdez.

The renovation will include a rehabilitation department, addition of an emergency entry
waiting area and ambulance canopy vestibule, and a central nurses’ station. The patient
care unit will be renovated to allow for single-occupancy rooms with accessible
bathrooms. An emergency department will increase patient capacity and increase the size
of each patient treatment area, and add a separate, controlled public waiting area. The
laboratory department will be renovated with modern equipment.

Through the Community Facilities program, USDA is ensuring that rural areas enjoy the
same basic quality of life and services enjoyed by those in urban areas. This program
offers direct loans, loan guarantees and grants to develop or improve essential public
services and facilities in communities across rural America. These amenities help
increase the competitiveness of rural communities in attracting and retaining businesses
that provide employment and services for their residents.

Under the Biden-Harris Administration, USDA Rural Development provides loans and
grants to help expand economic opportunities, create jobs, and improve the quality of life
for millions of Americans 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, tribal, and high-
poverty areas. For more information in Colorado, visit www.rd.usda.gov/co.