Press Release

U.S. Commerce Secretary Gary Locke Announces $1.9 Million Grant to Create Jobs, Strengthen Economy in Little Rock, Arkansas

August 12, 2009
Contact: Bryan Borlik, (202) 482-4085

WASHINGTON - U.S. Commerce Secretary Gary Locke today announced a $1.9 million Economic Development Administration (EDA) grant to the Little Rock Port Authority of Little Rock, Ark., to help build an unloading facility and overhead bridge crane at the Little Rock Port.

"The Obama Administration is committed to creating jobs, encouraging innovation and improving our nation's economic competitiveness," Locke said. "This EDA grant will boost the material handling capacity of the Little Rock Port and will help moderate the future disruption of business and shipping due to floods and other severe weather events."

The Department of Commerce is a voice for Main Street businesses that works to grow local economies by fostering innovation and opening markets to U.S. products and services. Locke is a 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.