Press Release

Commerce Department's EDA Invests in South Carolina Businesses

July 12, 2010
Contact: John Atwood, (202) 482-4085

Mayor of Fairfax supports water improvement project

WASHINGTON - The U.S. Commerce Department's Economic Development Administration (EDA) today announced a $328,000 grant to the Town of Fairfax, S.C., to make water system improvements to support the business community. The project is expected to create or save 225 jobs and generate $3 million in private investment, according to grantee estimates.

"Economic growth and development at the local level is essential to our nation's competitiveness," said U.S. Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development John R. Fernandez. "This EDA grant will provide the critical infrastructure needed to serve existing businesses and will help attract new businesses and jobs to the region."

"In upgrading infrastructure to allow for the expansion of existing industry, the project will strengthen the regional economy by supporting and attracting the manufacturing industry and providing for a more prosperous future in the rural areas," said Moses Cohen, Mayor of Fairfax.

This project will fund the installation of a 250,000 gallon ground storage to provide an adequate water supply. The project will also help to install a booster pump station to improve water pressure.

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.