The USDA has approved $1.3 million dollars in financing to be used to help the Maryville Fire Department purchase a brand-new aerial ladder truck.

The financing includes a $640,000 loan and another $660,000 grant for the Maryville Betterment Corporation through the USDA’s Community Facilities Direct Loan and Grant program. The new aerial ladder truck will replace an older model that was a safety concern.

The financing program is part of the USDA’s Rural Development Program.