Press Release

U.S. Department of Commerce Invests $500,000 to Create Jobs, Strengthen Economy in Donalds, South Carolina

March 9, 2010
Contact: John Atwood, (202) 482-4085

EDA Grant Expected to Create 91 Jobs and Generate $19.9 Million in Private Investment, According to Grantee Estimates

WASHINGTON - The U.S. Commerce Department's Economic Development Administration (EDA) today announced a $500,000 grant to Donalds-Due West Water and Sewer Authority of Donalds, S.C., to help build a new water line that will allow existing businesses to expand while helping to attract new businesses to the region. The project is expected to create 91 jobs and generate $19.9 million in private investment, according to grantee estimates.

"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 help to create jobs by providing the critical water infrastructure needed to satisfy the demand of business community."

"The project will be a great benefit for the community and for the Donalds-Due West Water Authority. It will not only improve our ability to provide better water service for the area, the project will ensure economic growth for the Town of Due West. It's a win-win situation," said Robert Gary, General Manager, Donalds-Due West Water and Sewer Authority.

The Economic Development Administration marks 45 years of public service, leading the federal economic development agenda by promoting competitiveness and preparing American regions for growth and success in the worldwide economy. EDA is an agency within the U.S. Department of Commerce that partners with distressed communities throughout the United States to foster job creation, collaboration and innovation.

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.