Press Release

Commerce Department Investment to Create Jobs by Improving Kendallville, Indiana Industrial Park

July 23, 2010
Contact: John Atwood, (202) 482-4085

WASHINGTON - The U.S. Commerce Department's Economic Development Administration (EDA) today announced a $663,375 grant to the city of Kendallville, Ind., to make roadway improvements to serve the Kendallville Eastside Industrial Park. The project is expected to create 370 jobs and generate $42 million in private investment, according to grantee estimates.

"An improved Eastside Industrial Park will serve as a catalyst for attracting new businesses and jobs to the region," said U.S. Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development John Fernandez. "This EDA investment will provide the vital infrastructure improvements needed to keep northeast Indiana competitive."

"This project is capitalizing on the strength of the region's existing industrial park infrastructure and manufacturing focused-labor force," said Suzanne Handshoe, Mayor of Kendallville.

This EDA investment will fund pavement restoration, drainage improvements, curbs, and utility work, encompassing a total of approximately 4,350 feet of roadways over six separate sections of roads within the Kendallville Eastside Industrial Park. These improvements will address deficiencies of the park that have existed for years.

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.