Press Release

U.S. EDA Supports Economic Recovery Efforts in Florida

September 1, 2011
Contact: John Atwood, (202) 482-4085

WASHINGTON - The U.S. Commerce Department's Economic Development Administration (EDA) today announced an $890,391 grant to the Tampa Bay Regional Planning Council of Tampa Bay, Fla., to develop a statewide energy resiliency strategy that will include analyzing the impacts of the BP/Deepwater Horizon oil spill disaster and assessing the state's energy policies and usage by engaging stakeholders throughout the state.

"Economic recovery and growth are top priorities for the Obama Administration," said U.S. Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development John Fernandez. "This strategic plan will prepare the state of Florida in the event of future energy-related disasters to ensure a stronger and more resilient statewide economy."

"Being prepared for future energy-related disasters will help save the current job market and create jobs in the future," said Manny Pumariega, Executive Director of the Tampa Bay Regional Planning Council.

This EDA investment will help the state design an energy resiliency strategy by bringing together stakeholders to discuss solutions and develop and implement methods that will prepare Florida and support its economy for future energy-related disasters.

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.