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A bureau within the U.S. Department of Commerce
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Press Release

U.S. Commerce Secretary Locke Announces $900,000 Recovery Act Grant to Create Jobs, Boost Development in Fayette County, Pennsylvania

September 18, 2009
Contact: Bryan Borlik, (202) 482-4085

WASHINGTON - U.S. Commerce Secretary Gary Locke today announced a $900,000 Economic Development Administration (EDA) grant to the Fayette Industrial Fund, Georges Township, and the Fairchance Georges Joint Municipal Sewage Authority in Smithfield, Pa., to make road and water infrastructure improvements to serve the Fayette Business Park. 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 by making the critical infrastructure improvements needed to help boost current and future business development at the Fayette Business Park."

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.

"I am pleased to see the stimulus funds at work in Fayette County," U.S. Sen. Arlen Specter said. "The infrastructure improvements to Fayette Business Park will spur growth and further the public-private effort to create quality employment opportunities in the region."

"These funds will help Fayette County grow by creating jobs and improving infrastructure," U.S. Sen. Bob Casey said. "This is another example of how the Recovery Act is helping to move our country and our local communities forward."

"With the future completion of the Mon/Fayette Expressway, our region, and in particular the Fayette Business Park, is ripe for further economic growth," U.S. Rep. John P. Murtha said. "This funding will put in place the infrastructure needed to attract new businesses and jobs, and is yet another example of federal stimulus funds working in Fayette County."

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.