Press Release
U.S. Department of Commerce Invests $800,000 to Expand Airport Infrastructure in Bemidji
Contact: EDA Public Affairs Department, (202) 482-4085
July 14, 2017
WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration (EDA) is awarding a $800,000 grant to the Bemidji Regional Airport Authority of Bemidji, Minnesota, to make infrastructure improvements at Bemidji Regional Airport that are needed to help grow the region's emerging aviation industry. According to grantee estimates, the project is expected to create 17 jobs and leverage $7.5 million dollars in private investment.
“We commend the city of Bemidji for working to spur economic opportunities through infrastructure improvements,” said Deputy Assistant Secretary for Regional Affairs Dennis Alvord. “This project will build two new T-hangars designed to accommodate 10 planes each, allowing for the area’s aviation industry to grow.”
The new hangar space and development area will serve aviation based businesses and expand business support to North America, including service to Canadian businesses. The increased aviation activity will improve the connectivity of the region and lead to sustainable economic growth.
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.