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U.S. Commerce Secretary Locke Announces $3.88 Million Recovery Act Grant to Create Jobs, Boost Development in North Kingstown, Rhode Island

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

WASHINGTON - U.S. Commerce Secretary Gary Locke today announced a $3.88 million Economic Development Administration (EDA) grant to the Quonset Development Corporation in North Kingstown, R.I., to improve access to 145 acres of land in the Commerce Park District by building a connector road and bridge over a major rail and road right-of-way. 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 project will help create new jobs and boost private investment by building critical infrastructure that increases the available industrial land in the business park and better serves current and future business needs."

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.

"The recovery bill is about putting people to work and investing in our long term productivity," U.S. Sen. Jack Reed, who wrote a letter in support of QDC's application in July, said . "This EDA grant will make Quonset an even more attractive location for business along with the rail and other infrastructure improvements I've secured over the years. These are tough economic times, but Quonset Park has helped us weather the storm and provides a natural location for future job growth."

"This economic recovery funding will put Rhode Islanders to work and make a long-term investment in critical infrastructure for our Ocean State," U.S. Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse said .

"During a recent visit to Quonset I learned about the need for infrastructure improvements to connect both sides of the business park," U.S. Rep. Langevin said . "I voted for the recovery bill precisely so projects like this could create immediate construction jobs in Rhode Island, while making the area more attractive for businesses to set up shop and employ more people over the long term. I'm excited about the possibilities at Quonset, including its potential to become a hub for offshore wind development."

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.