Press Release

Commerce Department Partners with L.A. Community Redevelopment Agency to Enhance Disaster Response and Protect Industrial Base

June 25, 2010
Contact: John Atwood, (202) 482-4085

WASHINGTON - U.S. Commerce Secretary Gary Locke today announced a $3.16 million U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) grant to the Community Redevelopment Agency of the City of Los Angeles to help design and build road improvements that will help protect Sun Valley area businesses and residents from future wildfires. The project is expected to create 45 jobs and generate $10 million in private investment, according to grantee estimates.

"The Obama Administration is committed to protecting California businesses and jobs from the impact of future wildfires," Locke said. "This EDA grant will enhance key commercial transportation corridors to help mitigate the economic impact of future disasters."

The project will improve key corridors used for initial emergency response, and will generate economic development benefits, which include removing impediments to sustained economic activity, helping to preserve the region's industrial base and improving its competitiveness in attracting new investment and employment opportunities.

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.