Press Release
U.S. Department of Commerce Invests Nearly $2.4 Million to Support American Manufacturing in Granite City
Contact: Public Affairs Department, (202) 482-4085
Wednesday, September 30, 2015
WASHINGTON – U.S. Secretary of Commerce Penny Pritzker today announced the Department’s Economic Development Administration (EDA) is awarding a $2.4 million grant to America’s Central Port District in Granite City, Ill. to support American manufacturing. According to the grantee, the funds will help upgrade rail infrastructure with the potential of creating 235 jobs and generating $6.5 million in private investment.
“Manufacturing is a key component of the Commerce Department’s “Open for Business Agenda” and a driver of economic competitiveness,” said Secretary Pritzker. “We are committed to connecting manufacturers with the resource they need to grow, thrive and create jobs. This EDA investment will provide vital transportation access to manufacturers, and attract businesses to Granite.”
EDA’s investment will help enhance the link between area manufacturers and the nation's freight transportation network by increasing the capacity and accessibility of the rail lines serving the area. This project is part of a master plan for additional industrial development and efforts to improve marketability of existing vacant warehouse spaces. The grantee is in active negotiations with a company to lease the first building within the development to be served by the new rail line and is conducting preliminary discussions with other employers as a result of the project.
About the U.S. Economic Development Administration (www.eda.gov)
The Economic Development Administration marks 50 years of public service, leading 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.