Press Release
U.S. EDA Supports Global Competitiveness of Erie Inland Ports
September 21, 2010
Contact: John Atwood, (202) 482-4085
WASHINGTON - The U.S. Commerce Department's Economic Development Administration (EDA) today announced a $494,439 grant to the Greater Erie Industrial Development Corporation of Erie and Northwest Regional Planning & Development Commission of Oil City, Pa., to help develop the Erie Inland Port Plan.
"Increasing the export of American products and services to global markets can boost the competitiveness of U.S. companies, spur future economic growth and create new jobs," said U.S. Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development John Fernandez. "The Erie Inland Port Plan will provide a blueprint for boosting the region's global competitiveness."
"The Saint Lawrence Seaway System is a vital maritime gateway that moves cargo between North America and the international markets. The Greater Erie Industrial Development Corporation and Northwest Regional Planning & Development Commission will help enhance the network of regional access routes of rail, interstate, and water," said John Elliot, President and CEO of Greater Erie Industrial Development Corporation.
The study will help facilitate the regional development of the Erie Inland Port sites located in Pennsylvania, Ohio and New York. The investment will generate preliminary site investigations, impact analyses, design engineering and market analyses and plan development activities related to the Erie Inland Ports.
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.