Senator Collins Visits Franklin and Oxford County Public Safety, Youth Development, and Rural Health Care Projects

FARMINGTON, ME – Today, U.S. Senator Susan Collins visited Franklin and Oxford Counties to highlight investments in public safety, youth development, and rural health care. During her visits, Senator Collins celebrated the grand opening of Franklin County’s new Emergency Operations Center, toured the Center for Entrepreneurial Studies in Farmington, and visited Rumford Hospital as it celebrates its 100th anniversary this month. “From strengthening emergency response capabilities to creating opportunities for young people and improving access to quality health care, these projects will make a meaningful difference for families throughout Franklin and Oxford Counties,” said Senator Collins. “ I was pleased to secure federal funding to support these important investments that will help make our communities safer, healthier, and stronger.” Click HERE for a full-resolution photo Senator Collins delivered remarks and helped cut the ribbon at the grand opening of Franklin County’s new Emergency Operations Center. Senator Collins secured $2,035,000 in Congressionally Directed Spending (CDS) to support the construction of the facility, which will consolidate countywide emergency response services under one roof. Click HERE , HERE , and HERE for individual photos Senator Collins then visited the Center for Entrepreneurial Studies (CES), a nonprofit organization founded by Bonita Tompkins that helps young Mainers develop entrepreneurial and leadership skills. Senator Collins secured $250,000 in CDS to support the development of a youth center at CES offering internship and entrepreneurial opportunities for Mainers ages 14 to 24. Click HERE , HERE , and HERE for individual photos Senator Collins concluded her day at Rumford Hospital, which is celebrating its 100th anniversary this month. Senator Collins secured $6.4 million in CDS through Fiscal Year 2026 appropriations legislation to renovate, expand, and equip the hospital’s emergency department, helping strengthen access to emergency medical care in the region. ###