Press Release

U.S. Department of Commerce Invests $400,000 to Create Jobs, Strengthen Economy in Weslaco, Texas Region

July 22, 2009
Contact: Bryan Borlik, (202) 482-4085

WASHINGTON - The U.S. Commerce Department's Economic Development Administration (EDA) today announced a $400,000 grant to the Texas A&M University Kingsville Citrus Center in Weslaco, Texas, to help spur the region's economic recovery following Hurricane Dolly by strengthening the citrus industry.

"The Economic Development Administration is pleased to partner with the Texas A&M University Kingsville Citrus Center to boost business development and job growth," said Sandra R. Walters, EDA Chief Financial Officer/Chief Administrative Officer. "This EDA grant will ensure that the region's citrus industry remains economically viable and grows, protecting present jobs and creating new ones by helping to control citrus disease and insects in nursery-bound 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.