Press Release

Commerce Department Grant Improves Ridgeway Industrial Park to Keep People Working

September 1, 2010
Contact: John Atwood, (202) 482-4085

WASHINGTON - U.S. Commerce Secretary Gary Locke today announced a $1.5 million U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) grant to the city of Robinson, Ill., and the Robinson Chamber of Commerce to help make roadway, sewer and water infrastructure improvements to the Ridgeway Industrial Park. The project is expected to create 700 jobs and generate $70 million in private investment, according to grantee estimates.

"Mitigating the effects of natural disasters and aiding in the prevention of future disasters is a top priority of the Obama Administration," Locke said. "This EDA grant will make the vital infrastructure improvements needed to keep businesses open and people working at the Ridgeway Industrial Park in the event of future flood events."

This EDA investment will provide roadway as well as storm and sanitary sewer improvements to the 72-acre Ridgeway Industrial Park owned by the Robinson Chamber of Commerce. These improvements will be crucial to mitigating future flood related impacts and will help create and retain jobs within the region.

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.