U.S. Department of Commerce Invests $13.5 Million for Water Infrastructure Improvements to Support Businesses Growth in Lake City, South Carolina

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo announced the Department’s Economic Development Administration (EDA) is awarding a $13.5 million grant to the city of Lake City, South Carolina, for water infrastructure improvements needed to support local businesses.

This grant will alleviate flooding in the downtown area, helping to reduce structural and economic damage to businesses, homes, and infrastructure. This EDA investment will be matched with $1.3 million in local funds.

“Building an economy that works for all Americans requires key, targeted investments in infrastructure, and the Biden-Harris Administration is committed to doing just that in communities across the country,” said Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo. “This EDA investment will allow Lake City to enhance its resiliency against storms and other natural disasters, which will strengthen the region by helping to better protect local businesses and residential areas from the impact of severe weather on its economy.”

“The Economic Development Administration works closely with local communities to support their disaster resiliency and recovery strategies,” said Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development Alejandra Y. Castillo. “This project will update critical water infrastructure that will support economic resiliency and allow for current and future business growth.”

“South Carolina is all too familiar with the devastating impacts of climate change on local homes and businesses. This $13.5 million grant is a crucial investment in Lake City’s weather resilience and economic stability,” said Representative James E. Clyburn (SC-06). “I applaud the Biden-Harris administration for their continued efforts to not only protect our local businesses, but also ensure a safer and more sustainable future for all.”

This project is funded under the Disaster Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2023, which provided EDA with $483 million in additional Economic Adjustment Assistance (EAA) Program funds for disaster relief and recovery for areas that received a major disaster declaration under the Robert T. Stafford Act as a result of Hurricanes Ian and Fiona, wildfires, flooding, and other natural disasters occurring in calendar years 2021 and 2022. Please visit EDA’s Disaster Supplemental webpage for more information.

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.