Press Release

U.S. Commerce Department Announces Investment to Bolster Infrastructure and Create High-Tech Jobs in Pennsylvania

March 29, 2010
Contact: John Atwood, (202) 482-4085

WASHINGTON - U.S. Commerce Secretary Gary Locke today announced $2 million in Economic Development Administration (EDA) to the Berwick Area Joint Sewer Authority and Berwick Industrial Development Association of Berwick to make sanitary and storm system improvements needed to support business expansion plans and future business needs.  The project is expected to create 117 jobs and generate $1.4 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," Commerce Secretary Gary Locke said. "We've seen recent signs that our economy is recovering but the Administration's top priority is creating jobs. With Congressman Kanjorski's leadership making it possible, projects like this one support that priority. It will create jobs and advance Pennsylvania's economic competitiveness."    

"This funding will greatly assist BIDA in taking needed action to separate its sewer lines and reduce the potential for overflows that could contaminate the area," said Congressman Kanjorski.  "Such action will better protect residents and employees in the area, reduce costs for companies currently at the BIDA, and spur job creation by encouraging more businesses to come to the complex.  As we work to recover from one the worst economic crises since the Great Depression, we must invest in programs that will help our local communities and stimulate job growth.  This initiative will do just that."

"This EDA funding will give BIDA additional capacity to create new jobs, and expand existing businesses in the area, benefiting five townships in the Berwick area," said Sam Ganshaw, Chairman, Berwick Area Joint Sewer Authority.

This year, the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) marks 45 years of public service, with a mission of 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.