Funding is often one of the biggest hurdles agencies face when purchasing specialized emergency response equipment. The Williamsport Bureau of Police recently demonstrated that with the right funding opportunity, acquiring a purpose-built armored rescue vehicle can become a reality.

The department has announced the purchase of a new Lenco BearCat G3, made possible through a 100% funded grant from the Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED), sponsored by State Sen. Gene Yaw and State Rep. Jamie Flick. The grant covers the full $353,529 purchase price, bringing this critical public safety resource to the community at no cost to local taxpayers.

Investing in Public Safety

The BearCat G3 will provide the Williamsport Bureau of Police with a purpose-built platform for responding to high-risk incidents, rescue operations, natural disasters, and mutual aid throughout the region.

Department leaders emphasized that the vehicle is designed to enhance officer safety and improve emergency response capabilities while serving the community during its most critical incidents.

Williamsport’s success also highlights an important reality for agencies nationwide: funding opportunities are available, and many departments may qualify for grants that can significantly reduce—or even eliminate—the cost of purchasing an armored rescue vehicle.

Lenco’s Complimentary Grant Assistance Program

At Lenco Armored Vehicles, we know that identifying and securing funding can feel overwhelming. That’s why we offer complimentary grant assistance to help agencies explore grant opportunities that may support the purchase of a BearCat or other Lenco armored rescue vehicle.

Our team works with agencies to:

• Identify applicable federal, state, and local grant opportunities
• Stay informed about upcoming funding programs and deadlines
• Navigate available funding resources
• Connect agencies with experienced grant-writing partners when additional assistance is needed

While grant awards cannot be guaranteed, our goal is to help agencies better understand the funding opportunities that may be available and make the application process more approachable.

Helping More Agencies Access the Equipment They Need

Lenco Armored Vehicles is proud to support agencies like the Williamsport Bureau of Police as they continue investing in the safety of their officers, fellow first responders, and the communities they serve.

If funding has delayed your agency’s plans to purchase an armored rescue vehicle, don’t assume a BearCat is out of reach. Our team is here to help you explore available funding opportunities and determine what resources may be available for your department.

Learn more about Lenco’s Grant Assistance Program: https://www.lencoarmor.com/grant-help/

Read the Original News Publishing for this BearCat Purchase here: https://www.sungazette.com/news/top-news/2026/04/city-of-williamsport-to-purchase-353k-armored-vehicle-with-state-grant/