Press Release

U.S. Commerce Department Supports Job Creation and Business Development in California's Visalia Industrial District

April 19, 2011
Contact: John Atwood, (202) 482-4085

WASHINGTON - U.S. Commerce Secretary Gary Locke today announced a $2 million Economic Development Administration (EDA) grant to the city of Visalia, Calif., to help expand a key section of Plaza Drive that will provide better access to the Visalia Industrial District and attract new businesses to the region. The project is expected to create 250 jobs and generate $10 million in private investments, according to grantee estimates.

"The Obama Administration is committed to job growth and business development, and this grant will fund vital infrastructure needed in the Visalia community," Locke said. "Providing local communities with the resources they need is critical to our ability to create jobs and help main street businesses stay competitive."

This EDA project promotes regional collaboration, and by improving access to a major employment hub, it is expected to generate a variety of job opportunities for Tulare County residents. The city of Visalia has identified nine new and existing businesses within the Industrial District that plan to hire additional employees as a result of the infrastructure improvements to Plaza Drive.

About the U.S. Economic Development Administration:

The mission of the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) is to lead the federal economic development agenda by promoting competitiveness and preparing the nation's regions for growth and success in the worldwide economy. An agency within the U.S. Department of Commerce, EDA makes investments in economically distressed communities in order to create jobs for U.S. workers, promote American innovation and accelerate long-term sustainable economic growth.