Press Release

U.S. Commerce Secretary Gary Locke Announces $3.2 Million Grant to Create Jobs, Strengthen Economy in the Town of Worthington, West Virginia

December 28, 2009
Contact: Lindsey Pangretic, (202) 482-4085

EDA Grant Expected to Create 300 Jobs and Generate $10.5 Million in Private

WASHINGTON - U.S. Commerce Secretary Gary Locke today announced a $3.2 million Economic Development Administration (EDA) grant to the Town of Worthington, W.Va., to upgrade and repair waste water treatment plant facilities and lines damaged by recent storms. These upgrades will support new office, industrial, and business development. The project is expected to create 300 jobs and generate $10.5 million in private investment, according to grantee estimates.

"The Obama Administration is committed to creating jobs, encouraging innovation and improving our nation's economic competitiveness," Locke said. "The Worthington area has been hard hit by recent storm and this EDA grant will help in the ongoing recovery efforts. Good jobs will be created the region's competitiveness will be improved as improved infrastructure supports the development of facilities to house new private companies."

The Department of Commerce is a voice for Main Street businesses that works to grow local economies by fostering innovation and opening markets to U.S. products and services. Locke is a member of President Barack Obama's economic team.

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.