Press Release

U.S. Commerce Secretary Locke Announces $880,000 Recovery Act Grant to Create Jobs, Boost Development in Pittsfield, Maine

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

WASHINGTON - U.S. Commerce Secretary Gary Locke today announced an $880,000 Economic Development Administration (EDA) grant to the town of Pittsfield, Maine, to make road and utility infrastructure improvements to support the 28-acre expansion of the Pittsfield Industrial 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 helping to increase the available industrial land to serve the area's 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 Pittsfield Industrial Park has been a pillar of our local economy, helping to spur economic development and create and preserve jobs throughout the Pittsfield community," U.S. Sen. Olympia J. Snowe said. "With $880,000 in federal grant money dedicated to critical infrastructure improvements and expansions, the Pittsfield Industrial Park will be able to further build upon its successes, enhance opportunities, and help put Maine back on the road to economic recovery."

"I am very pleased that the EDA is investing in this exciting project," U.S. Sen. Susan Collins said. "This funding will help build on the record of success at the Pittsfield Industrial Park by creating new jobs in a region of our state particularly hard-hit during the economic downturn. I look forward to the continued success of this project."

"This funding comes at an important time and will help Pittsfield attract new businesses and create local job opportunities," U.S. Rep. Mike Michaud said. "Although the region has been hit hard during the past few years, it has great potential with its close proximity to the interstate, diversified workforce, and location in the heart of central Maine. Thanks to the vision of local leaders and the support of this EDA funding, Pittsfield will now be able to expand its industrial park and increase the community's ability to attract investment to the area."

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.