Press Release

U.S. Commerce Secretary Gary Locke Announces $3.9 Million Grant to Create Jobs, Strengthen Economy in Fort Pierce, Florida Region

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

EDA Grant Expected to Create 1,050 Jobs and Generate $101 Million in Private Investment

WASHINGTON - U.S. Commerce Secretary Gary Locke today announced a $3.9 million Economic Development Administration (EDA) grant to the District Board of Trustees of Indian River State College in Fort Pierce, Fla., to help build the Center for Competitive Economics and Entrepreneurship. The workforce training center will be built according to environmentally-sustainable construction standards developed by the U.S. Green Building Council. The project is expected to create 1,050 jobs and generate $101 million in private investment, according to grantee estimates.

"The Obama Administration is committed to creating jobs, encouraging innovation and improving our nation's competitiveness," said Locke. "This new training center will help diversify and strengthen the region's economy by offering job training is a variety of fields including alternative energy, green construction, nanotechnology, and robotics."

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.