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Minnesota Mining Sector Receives Boost from U.S. EDA

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

WASHINGTON - The U.S. Commerce Department's Economic Development Administration (EDA) today announced an $844,165 grant to the city of Virginia, Minn., to make infrastructure improvements needed to expand the Northern Heights Industrial Park. The project is expected to create 20 jobs and generate $8 million in private investment, according to grantee estimates.

"This funding will help to keep the Virginia mining sector competitive by providing the critical infrastructure improvements needed to serve the local business community," said U.S. Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development John Fernandez. "The expanded industrial park will provide shovel-ready sites to support the existing mining industry and the future expansion of mining opportunities on the east Iron Range."

"The EDA investment will add critical infrastructure to the new park, opening up the north 26 acres to immediate development, starting with the expansion of P&H MinePro, a major regional manufacturer and distributor," said Steve Peterson, Mayor of the City of Virginia, Minnesota. "P&HMinePro is strategically positioning the company to take advantage of its global market opportunities, helping to promote the future economic growth potential for the Iron Range region."

This Obama Administration investment will support new public infrastructure over approximately 26 acres, including the extension of municipal water, sewer, storm sewer and natural gas service from the southwest corner of the Northern Heights Industrial Park along the west side of the park to the north and east.

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.