Press Release

Naval Air Station Economic Recovery Efforts Supported by Commerce Department Investment

July 21, 2010

WASHINGTON - U.S. Commerce Secretary Gary Locke today announced a $1 million U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) grant to the Bee Development Authority in Beeville, Texas, to make aircraft hanger improvements to support business expansion plans and create jobs at the former Chase Naval Air Station site.

"The Obama Administration is committed to providing communities with the resources they need to encourage business development and job creation," Locke said. "This EDA grant will create high-skill, high-wage jobs by upgrading and modernizing several of the aircraft hangers on the former base to expand commercial aircraft maintenance operations."

The project will renovate two hangers and build a small adjacent warehouse at the former Chase Naval Air Station, allowing for the expansion of an existing Aeronautics operation. The project includes the remodeling of workshops and office spaces in these hangers including upgrading HVAC, electrical, plumbing and related building systems. It is estimated that these facility renovations will enable the creation of more than 100-200 additional high skilled jobs at the site, according to grantee estimates, as the existing operation expands into those areas.

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.