Press Release

U.S. Department of Commerce Invests $32,000 to Create Jobs, Strengthen Economy in Morganfield, Kentucky

December 22, 2009

WASHINGTON - The U.S. Commerce Department's Economic Development Administration (EDA) today announced a $32,000 grant to the Union County Fiscal Court of Morganfield, Ky., to develop a strategic plan that will provide local officials and economic development leaders in Union, McLean, and Webster counties with a blueprint for advancing the regional economy through enhanced business development and reduce the economic impact of future natural disasters.

"Economic recovery and growth are top priorities for the Obama Administration," said U.S. Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development John R. Fernandez. "This EDA grant will boost the region's competitiveness by providing a plan that will outline the area's business assets and resources and focus on reducing the economic impact of future natural disasters."

"The project will allow economic development professionals to conduct a thorough inventory of existing programs, industries, and avenues for future growth and will have a positive, long-ranging effect upon the marketplace of the entire region," said Jody Jenkins, Judge Executive of Union County.

EDA is an agency within the U.S. Department of Commerce that partners with distressed communities throughout the United States to foster economic growth and job creation. 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 global 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.