Jump to main content.

THIS IS AN ARCHIVED SITE

This site contains information that has been considered archived and will no longer be updated. Please click here to go to the CURRENT eda.gov website.

A bureau within the U.S. Department of Commerce
Newsroom

Newsroom

Press Release

U.S. Commerce Secretary Locke Announces $1.5 Million Recovery Act Grant to Create Jobs, Boost Development in Pasco, Washington

June 23, 2009
Contact: Bryan Borlik, (202) 482-4085

WASHINGTON - U.S. Commerce Secretary Gary Locke today announced a $1.5 million Economic Development Administration (EDA) grant to the Port of Pasco in Pasco, Wash., to help improve nine large warehouse bays at the Big Pasco Industrial Center. The project, made possible because of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, is expected to create additional jobs and private investment in the region.

"The Obama Administration is committed to creating jobs, encouraging innovation and improving our nation's economic competitiveness," Locke said. "This grant will help make improvements to the Big Pasco Industrial Center so that it can accommodate manufacturing, warehouse, distribution, and business incubator needs - ultimately creating jobs."

The Recovery Act was signed into law by President Obama on February 17, 2009. It is providing immediate relief for American families and jump-starting billions of dollars in new projects that are creating jobs, improving infrastructure and strengthening local economies.

"This is another example of Recovery Act funding going to support the unique economic needs of the Tri-Cities," U.S. Sen. Patty Murray, chair of the Senate Transportation Appropriations Committee, said. "The Big Pasco Industrial Center is a gateway for local businesses to access rail, major highway systems, the Tri-Cities Airport and the Columbia River. By investing in the Big Pasco Industrial Center we are supporting local manufacturers, farmers efforts to get their products to market, and assembly and transportation jobs."

U.S. Sen. Maria Cantwell said, "This grant will help create jobs in both the near term and long term as these bays at the Big Pasco Industrial Center come online. The Tri Cities is a vibrant community with a strong economic base and skilled workers; this infrastructure development is exactly what we need to get the economy in Tri Cities, and across our state, back on track."

The Department of Commerce is a voice for Main Street businesses. It focuses on creating jobs by fostering innovation and opening markets to U.S. products.

EDA is an agency within the U.S. Commerce Department and supports the economic development needs of distressed communities throughout the United States. Its mission is to lead the federal economic development agenda by promoting innovation and competitiveness and preparing American regions for growth and success in the worldwide economy.

Additional information on how EDA investments are helping distressed communities create a positive and sustainable economic future can be accessed at: http://www.eda.gov.