Press Release

U.S. Department of Commerce Invests $1.5 Million to Upgrade Infrastructure in Louisiana

Contact: Public Affairs Department, (202) 482-4085
Friday, June 19, 2015

WASHINGTON – U.S. Secretary of Commerce Penny Pritzker today announced that the Department’s Economic Development Administration (EDA) is awarding a $1.5 million grant to the city of Walker, Louisiana, to upgrade water services and road access to the Walker industrial park. According to grantee estimates, the project will create 200 jobs, save 859 jobs, and generate $25 million in private investment.

“The Obama Administration and the Commerce Department are committed to improving our nation’s infrastructure, which is crucial for job creation and economic growth,” said Secretary Pritzker. “The EDA grant announced today will fund projects in Walker, Louisiana, to help create and retain jobs in the area.”

EDA’s investment will help with the development of 82 acres of the Walker industrial park by funding the replacement of water lines, sewers upgrades, and new road construction. According to the grantee, the condition of the industrial park’s infrastructure and transportation system has hindered its expansion and improvements are essential to the industrial park's sustainability with current and future tenants. So far, according to the city, three companies have committed to investing in the park as a result of the project.

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.