Press Release

U.S. EDA Collaborates to Expand Industrial Development and Create Jobs in Ira, Michigan Region

September 3, 2010
Contact: John Atwood, (202) 482-4085

WASHINGTON - The U.S. Commerce Department's Economic Development Administration (EDA) today announced an $816,322 grant to the Township of Ira and St. Clair County, Mich., to make water system improvements needed to serve an expanding industrial area. The project is expected to create 262 jobs and generate $7.5 million in private investment, according to grantee estimates.

"This grant will help create jobs and keep Ira companies competitive by providing the critical infrastructure improvements needed to serve the local community," said U.S. Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development John R. Fernandez. "This EDA grant will extend the water main along Marine City Highway necessary to attract new private investment and jobs to the region."

"The Township of Ira and St. Clair County must encourage development of industrial clusters in areas which are compatible with existing land uses and site-specific capacity characteristics and retain and promote expansion of existing businesses within the Marine City Highway Industrial Corridor," said Robert McCoy, Supervisor, Township of Ira.

This federal investment will provide a water main along Marine City Highway, eliminating the need for use of individual water wells by businesses, preparing local communities for long-term private sector investment.

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.