Press Release

Northeast Indiana Businesses to Benefit from Commerce Department Grant

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

WASHINGTON - U.S. Commerce Secretary Gary Locke today announced a $1.2 million U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) grant to Topeka, Ind., to make roadway infrastructure improvements to serve business and industry in the region. The project is expected to create 82 jobs and generate $8.25 million in private investment, according to grantee estimates.

"The Obama Administration is committed to helping communities build the vital infrastructure needed to support business development and job growth," Locke said. "This EDA grant will improve West Lake Street to make it easier to access Topeka's industrial site and to support other commercial development in the region."

The street's widening will allow for an additional travel lane that will accommodate non-motorized vehicles, such as bicycles and horse-drawn buggies, which are common in the community. The construction will improve the traffic flow for commercial vehicles, specifically semi-trailer trucks and other large vehicles that frequent the industrial sites on the west side of town.

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.