Press Release

U.S. Commerce Secretary Gary Locke Announces $1.5 Million Grant to Create Jobs, Strengthen Economy in the Town of Citronelle, Alabama

August 27, 2009
Contact: Bryan Borlik, (202) 482-4085

EDA Grant Expected to Create 111 Jobs and Generate $185 Million in Private Investment

WASHINGTON - U.S. Commerce Secretary Gary Locke today announced a $1.5 million Economic Development Administration (EDA) grant to The Utilities Board of the Town of Citronelle, doing business as South Alabama Utilities, Citronelle, Ala., to make water infrastructure improvements needed to serve the local business community. The project is expected to create 111 jobs and generate $185 million in private investment, according to grantee estimates.

"The Obama Administration is committed to creating jobs, encouraging innovation and improving our nation's economic competitiveness," Locke said. "This EDA grant will provide the critical water infrastructure needed to help establish the ThyssenKrupp steel production facility and to serve other current and future business and industrial needs in the region."

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 .