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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 $1.45 Million Recovery Act Grant to Create Jobs, Boost Development in Chemung County, New York

September 22, 2009
Contact: Bryan Borlik, (202) 482-4085

WASHINGTON - U.S. Commerce Secretary Gary Locke today announced a $1.45 million Economic Development Administration (EDA) grant to the Chemung County Industrial Development Agency and Chemung County, N.Y., to provide water, sewer, and road infrastructure to serve industrial-zoned land along the Interstate 86 corridor in Chemung County. 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 in the Chemung region by building the vital infrastructure needed to serve businesses wishing to locate along the I-86 corridor."

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.

"Access to water, sewers and roads is critical for any businesses development," U.S. Sen. Chuck Schumer said. "This funding is a wise investment that will assist in creating jobs, both from the resulting businesses and during construction."

"This is a great investment for the Southern Tier," U.S. Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand, a member of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee, said. "These federal dollars will upgrade critical infrastructure, create new jobs, help businesses grow and help rebuild our economy."

"I voted for the Recovery Act to improve our infrastructure and create jobs, and that's exactly what we are doing in Chemung County. This investment in our community is exactly what's needed to strengthen our local economy and I am proud to support this project," U.S. Rep. Eric Massa said.

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.