The Texas Department of Agriculture’s (TDA) Texas Community Development Block Grant (TxCDBG) program, in partnership with the State Office of Rural Health, is supporting a new statewide effort to strengthen rural healthcare delivery. Through the Fire, Ambulance, and Service Truck (FAST), Rural Outreach and Wellness (ROW) Program, the City of Smithville is coordinating the purchase of 22 community healthcare vehicles on behalf of participating rural hospitals and health service providers across Texas.
Unlike traditional FAST awards for large emergency vehicles, this initiative funds smaller units designed to support non-emergency, community-based healthcare services. The vehicles will help hospitals move staff, equipment, and supplies; fill gaps in primary care; assist patients with chronic health needs; and expand preventative care and education. These services have proven effective in reducing hospital readmissions and improving long-term outcomes for rural, low- to moderate-income communities.
Smithville’s responsibilities include coordinating required documentation, executing subrecipient agreements, and procuring the vehicles. The project builds on a successful pilot and now includes the potential to serve up to 18 subrecipients statewide. Some hospitals will receive multiple vehicles based on their service area needs.
The FAST-ROW program represents a significant investment in rural healthcare infrastructure, increasing capacity, flexibility, and service reach for hospitals that often operate across large geographies with limited resources. As vehicles are deployed, communities across Texas will benefit from strengthened hospital operations and improved access to essential medical support.
Additional TxCDBG opportunities
TDA offers several funding opportunities to support local non-entitlement communities. While the Community Development Fund is currently closed, the Downtown Revitalization Program is open with applications due in April 2026.
The Downtown Revitalization Program offers a maximum award of $1 million for main street areas. The Community Development Fund is expected to open at the end of 2026 and will offer a maximum award of $750,000 for community infrastructure projects.
CAPCOG can assist interested communities by identifying eligible projects, reviewing application requirements, and providing technical support throughout the funding process. Please contact Kaileen McHugh, CAPCOG planning and economic development coordinator, for more information.
