Press Release

U.S. Department of Commerce Invests $1.9 Million to Boost Industrial Growth in Itasca County, Minnesota

WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina M. Raimondo announced that the Department’s Economic Development Administration (EDA) is awarding a $1.9 million grant to the city of Grand Rapids, Minnesota, to extend water and sewer infrastructure to attract new industry and support the expansion of existing businesses. This EDA project, to be matched with $1.9 million in local funds, is expected to create or retain nearly 200 jobs and generate $36.4 million in private investment.

“President Biden is committed to helping communities grow and diversify their industries to build strong and resilient regional economies,” said Secretary of Commerce Gina M. Raimondo. “This EDA investment in Grand Rapids will spur business growth in all of Itasca County by creating shovel-ready industrial sites for new employers and space for existing employers to expand.”

“The Economic Development Administration is pleased to support Grand Rapids as they seek to diversify the region’s economy,” said Susan Brehm, Director of EDA’s Chicago Regional Office. “This project will support expansion of the local industrial infrastructure to accommodate new and existing businesses and create jobs for Minnesotans.”

“We’re grateful to President Biden and our federal partners for their commitment to delivering jobs and infrastructure improvements to Grand Rapids and communities across the State of Minnesota,” said Governor Tim Walz. “Investments like these provide the foundation for our communities to thrive.”

“As we round the corner of this pandemic, it’s critical that we support our communities’ infrastructure and economic development needs,” said Senator Amy Klobuchar. “This investment in the Grand Rapids area does just that by expanding the water and sewer infrastructure to create jobs, attract new businesses, and generate opportunity for Minnesotans.”

“Water and sewer management systems are essential infrastructure,” said Senator Tina Smith. “If they’re not up-to-date, then communities can’t grow. It can even put our health and public safety at risk. This federal funding will help Grand Rapids update its water and sewer infrastructure to attract new businesses and create economic opportunity. I’ll keep pressing for real federal dollars to support Minnesota priorities.”

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 invests in communities and supports regional collaboration in order to create jobs for U.S. workers, promote American innovation, and accelerate long-term sustainable economic growth.