Simpson Secures Funds for Shoshone Emergency Response Infrastructure Project in FY23 Omnibus

Washington, D.C. – Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson today highlighted the inclusion of the Family Health Services Helipad and Ambulance Bay infrastructure project in the FY23 Omnibus package that was signed into law on December 29, 2022.

The project was included in the Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations bill at Congressman Simpson’s request through Community Project Funding (CPF).

“Through CPFs, members of Congress can request funds directly for eligible projects in their own congressional districts and avoid some of the problematic delays and funding decisions made by Biden-appointed bureaucrats in government agencies.  While Congress undoubtedly needs to get federal spending under control, CPFs represent an important, and limited—no more than one percent of discretionary spending—way to use tax dollars responsibly and fund worthy and meaningful projects in Members’ own districts,” said Simpson.

The $1,550,000 in funding will be used for an emergency services infrastructure project that includes a helipad and a 4-unit ambulance bay attached to the new Family Health Services (FHS) Community Health Center being constructed in rural Shoshone, Idaho – home to over 5,300 residents.  This comprehensive emergency services infrastructure project will provide access to crucial emergency medical transport into and out of the rural community to generate favorable health outcomes.

“The helipad and ambulance bay will greatly expedite access to emergency care for this very rural part of Idaho that serves as a conduit to the popular Sun Valley Area.  This project will create a robust health services network capable of yielding positive outcomes and reducing health disparities often inherent in rural communities where distance limits response and transport time in medical emergencies,” said Simpson.

“Lincoln County is thrilled for the award of approximately $1.5 million for the addition of a helipad and ambulance bay that will work in conjunction with the new family health services facility.  This opportunity will allow our citizens to have access to high quality medical services and faster response time to improve public safety for all citizens of Lincoln County.  We would like to thank Congressman Simpson for all his hard work to help make this happen!” -Lincoln County Commissioners

“Family Health Services is honored and thrilled to be receiving funding for a new ambulance bay and helipad in Shoshone, Idaho from Congressional funding made possible by Congressman Simpson.  The ambulance bay will be co-located with a new Family Health Services medical, dental and behavioral health facility.  This project is in collaboration with the Lincoln County Commissioners, City of Shoshone, Lincoln County EMS, Dr. Keith Davis and Family Health Services.  The ambulance bay will be able to house up to 6 vehicles, provide sleeping quarters, shower, kitchen, meeting rooms, offices and a break room for the EMS staff.  There is currently not a helicopter landing pad in Lincoln County and building a new helipad with lighting and safety measures will be a significant improvement for the residents of Lincoln County.  The new facility, ambulance bay and helipad are projected to be completed in early 2024.  We greatly appreciate Congressman Simpson’s sponsorship for and securing funding of this project.” -Aaron Houston, Chief Executive Officer, Family Health Services

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