Press Release

U.S. Department of Commerce Invests $2 Million to Replace Critical Water Infrastructure to Support Businesses in West Monroe, Louisiana

WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina M. Raimondo announced that the Department’s Economic Development Administration (EDA) is awarding a $2 million grant to the city of West Monroe, Louisiana, to replace aging sewer infrastructure.

This project will provide the modern infrastructure needed to support local businesses and residents’ needs. This EDA grant will be matched with $512,750 in local funds and is expected to create 82 jobs, retain 239 jobs, and generate $15.1 million in private investment, according to grantee estimates.

“President Biden is dedicated to providing communities with the resources needed to grow and diversify their economies,” said Secretary of Commerce Gina M. Raimondo. “This EDA grant will provide critical infrastructure to support economic resiliency and attract new businesses to West Monroe.”

“Economic Development Administration investments play an important role in advancing locally-led economic development strategies,” said Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development Alejandra Y. Castillo. “This EDA investment will enhance local sewer infrastructure to support current and future business needs.”

“This substantial EDA grant will not only bring needed infrastructure improvements to West Monroe, it will also help create jobs in the community and encourage business growth,” said Congresswoman Julia Letlow (LA-05).

This project was made possible by the regional planning efforts led by the North Delta Regional Planning and Development District (North Delta RP&DD). EDA funds North Delta RP&DD to bring together the public and private sectors to create an economic development roadmap to strengthen the regional economy, support private capital investment and create jobs.

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.