Press Release

Business Owners and Workers to Benefit from Commerce Department

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

Investment to Protect Madawaska from Future Flooding

WASHINGTON - U.S. Commerce Secretary Gary Locke today announced a $2 million Economic Development Administration (EDA) grant to the Town of Madawaska, Maine, to improve its wastewater treatment system. The project is expected to save 625 jobs, according to grantee estimates.

"The Obama Administration is committed to protecting jobs and helping disaster-impacted communities rebuild to mitigate the economic impact of future natural disasters," Locke said. "The wastewater treatment system improvements made possible by this EDA grant will help local employers avoid the impacts of system shutdowns in the event of future flooding of the Saint John River."

The project includes construction of a new pump station and emergency generator building, upgrade to an existing pump station, piping and other station components.

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.