Press Release

U.S. Department of Commerce Announces $1 Million Investment to Support Expansion of Fishing Operations in Akutan, Alaska

Contact: Public Affairs Department, (202) 482-4085
Thursday, July 19, 2012

WASHINGTON -Acting U.S. Commerce Secretary Rebecca Blank today announced a $1 million Economic Development Administration (EDA) grant to Aleutian East Borough, Alaska, to support the construction and installation of the first phase of floats in the Akutan Small Boat Harbor. The investment is expected to create 83 new jobs and generate more than $7 million in private investment, according to grantee estimates.

"This $1 million EDA investment in Alaska is an example of the Obama administration's commitment to supporting the economic strength of our nation's fishing communities," said Acting U.S. Commerce Secretary Blank. "The grant announced today will support the growth of Akutan's fishing fleet by creating new jobs, in addition to bringing opportunities to local businesses to expand into related and growing industries, such as aquaculture and greenhouse farming."

The project funded by EDA supports the growth of Akutan's fishing industry by providing new and improved moorage for fishing vessels. It includes the construction of an 800-foot heavy duty timber float with one gangway, anchored with an array of steel guide piles in a newly constructed and dredged basin. The new float will accommodate 6 to 14 vessels, ranging in length from 15 to 125 feet.

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.