Press Release

Alabama Businesses to Benefit from Department of Commerce Investment to Connect Cities to Regional Water System

June 18, 2010
Contact: John Atwood, (202) 482-4085

WASHINGTON - U.S. Commerce Secretary Gary Locke today announced a $1.5 million Economic Development Administration (EDA) grant to the Coosa Valley Water Supply District of Pell City, Ala., to make infrastructure improvements that will connect Pell City, Odenville and Springville to a regional water system. The project is expected to create 83 jobs and generate $5.7 million in private investment, according to grantee estimates.

"The Obama Administration is committed to helping communities stay competitive," Locke said. "This EDA grant will help make the vital infrastructure improvements these towns need to establish a regional water system that will support the business community and attract new jobs to the region."

The project will build a critical water intake structure at the Coosa River and make other water system improvements needed to provide sufficient capacity to support development and business expansion in the region.

About the U.S. Economic Development Administration (www.eda.gov):

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.