Press Release

U.S. Department of Commerce Invests $2.1 Million to Accelerate Economic Recovery in Waynesboro, Tennessee

Contact: John Atwood, 202-482-4085
Tuesday, April 24, 2012

WASHINGTON - U.S. Commerce Secretary John Bryson today announced a $2.1 million Economic Development Administration (EDA) grant to the city of Waynesboro, Tennessee, to rebuild the city's water system, which was damaged by floods in 2010. The investment will result in the retention of 234 jobs, according to grantee estimates.

"This $2.1 million EDA investment in Waynesboro is an example of the Obama Administration's commitment to supporting communities impacted by natural disasters," Bryson said. "The grant announced today will not only help rebuild critical infrastructure following flood devastation, but will also provide resources to Tennessee that will enable businesses in the city of Waynesboro to save jobs and attract additional investment."

The EDA investment will help pay for repairs to the city's water treatment system, which was damaged by flooding in May 2010, assuring that it meets all state and federal regulations for service in emergency situations. The investment will also allow the city's water system to be connected with that of the nearby city of Clifton, to better serve the needs of a local employer, Brown-Forman Cooperage.

About the U.S. Economic Development Administration (www.eda.gov)
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.