Rumford and Bridgton hospitals are expected to get a combined $11.4 million to renovate, expand and equip their emergency departments.

The money is part of nearly a $71 million federal spending package for Maine Hospitals and Health Centers, according to a news release from U.S. Sen. Susan Collins, chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee. The bill has been signed into law.

“We are incredibly excited and grateful to have this opportunity,” Stephany Jacques, president of Rumford and Bridgton hospitals, said Thursday.

She said that as a result of passage and enactment of the bill, Rumford Hospital will be getting $6.4 million and Bridgton Hospital will receive $5 million for their emergency departments.

“This critical funding will allow Bridgton and Rumford hospitals to enhance the overall health and wellness of the Lakes Region and River Valley communities,” Jacques said. “More specifically, it will allow us to upgrade technology, increase space at the emergency department and streamline patient care.”

Rumford Town Manager George O’Keefe said Thursday that this is “one of the most significant and historic investments in the hospital that’s been made in its entire history, and will go a very long way in our view towards helping to preserve its presence in our community. We are pleased to be working and cooperating with the senior leadership at Rumford Hospital and with the leadership team at Prime Healthcare Foundation to continue to ensure the viability of Rumford Hospital in our community for generations to come.”

The federal spending package also includes $10.8 million to Western Maine Health (MaineHealth) in Norway for MaineHealth Stephens Hospital renovations, and $2.6 million to St. Mary’s Regional Medical Center in Lewiston for its behavioral health emergency department expansion.

“Mainers in every part of our state should be able to receive the vital medical services they need,” Collins said. “This funding will support much-needed equipment and facility upgrades at hospitals and health centers, helping to expand and improve the quality of an array of health care services throughout the state.

“As the Chair of the Appropriations Committee, I worked hard to secure this important funding.”