Press Release
U.S. Commerce Secretary Gary Locke Announces $1.26 Million Recovery Act Grant to Create Jobs, Boost Development in Ladysmith, Wisconsin
July 27, 2009
Contact: Bryan Borlik, (202) 482-4085
WASHINGTON - U.S. Commerce Secretary Gary Locke today announced a $1.26 million Economic Development Administration (EDA) grant to the city of Ladysmith, Wis., to help expand the Meadowbrook Industrial Center and the Fritz Avenue Manufacturing Plant industrial sites to meet an increased need for affordable leased operating space by the manufacturing sector. The project, made possible because of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA), 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 create new jobs and boost private investment in the Ladysmith region by increasing the availability of affordable industrial manufacturing space for new and existing businesses."
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.
"Last year this country experienced the greatest economic collapse since the 1930's," U.S. Rep. Dave Obey, a key architect of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, said. "That has created a tremendous need for local economic development that creates jobs. I hope this will contribute significantly to the effort, because I know firsthand how much Rusk County needs this kind of help."
"This grant, through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, will help create jobs and boost the local economy," U.S. Sen. Herb Kohl said. "Ladysmith is a beautiful community that will continue to grow through the expansions of the Meadowbrook Industrial Center and the Fritz Avenue Manufacturing Plant."
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.