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U.S. Commerce Secretary Gary Locke Announces Nearly $13 Million More for Ike Recovery Efforts

June 29, 2009
Contact: Bryan Borlik, (202) 482-4085

WASHINGTON - U.S. Commerce Secretary Gary Locke today announced an additional $12.875 million in Economic Development Administration (EDA) grants to aid the ongoing economic recovery following the devastation caused last year by Hurricane Ike.

Last month, the Obama Administration delivered more than $40 million in grants as the Gulf Coast region continues recovering from hurricanes Ike and Gustav.

"Last year's hurricanes devastated the Gulf Coast; the Obama Administration is committed to assuring that the business community is rebuilt and critical jobs are restored," Locke said. "These grants will help retrain the workforce, develop infrastructure and attract new industry and jobs.

The investments announced today include:

  • $4 million for the Port of Beaumont (Tex.) Navigation District to help build critical rail infrastructure needed to expand the Port's intermodal capacity.

  • $4 million to Polk County, Tex., to help build a multi-use Commerce Center that will expand education and economic opportunities in the region. The project is expected to create 300 jobs, according to grantee estimates

  • $3 million to Seabrook, Tex., to help spur economic recovery by building a disaster resilient roadway and drainage infrastructure needed to redevelop the Seabrook "Point" district

  • $1.875 million Economic Development Administration (EDA) investment to the city of Nash, Texas to spur economic recovery by making infrastructure improvements to serve the Nash Business Park

  • 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. Locke is a key member of President Barack Obama's economic team.

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.