Press Release

Commerce Department Grant will Support Botanical Research in Tulsa

June 21, 2010
Contact: John Atwood, (202) 482-4085

WASHINGTON - U.S. Commerce Secretary Gary Locke today announced a $1 million U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) grant to the Oklahoma Centennial Botanical Garden and the city of Tulsa, Okla., to build the Oklahoma Centennial Botanical Garden and Research and Education Center. The project is expected to create 291 jobs, according to grantee estimates.

"The Obama Administration is committed to supporting job creation and local economic development," Locke said. "This EDA grant will help the Tulsa region diversify its economy and create new jobs in the wake of the severe weather that impacted the region in 2008 by building a facility that will attract researchers from all over the world."

The region suffered severe damage as a result of flooding and tornados in 2008.

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.