Today, U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina M. Raimondo announced that the Department’s Economic Development Administration (EDA) is awarding a $1.5 million grant to the city of Crossett, Arkansas, to complete the East Crossett Sewer Improvement Project to support business growth at the Crossett Industrial Park. This EDA project, to be matched with $365,180 in local funds, is expected to create 220 jobs, retain 40 jobs, and generate $603 million in private investment.
“President Biden is committed to supporting infrastructure development as the foundation of new economic growth across the country,” said Secretary of Commerce Gina M. Raimondo. “This EDA investment in the city of Crossett will provide the sewer infrastructure needed to expand the Crossett Industrial Park, providing new opportunities for businesses to create a stronger, more resilient regional economy.”
“The Economic Development Administration is pleased to support the city of Crossett as they seek to diversify and grow the region’s economy,” said Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development Alejandra Y. Castillo. “This project will support the construction of a centralized sewage pump station and the installation of related sewer services, allowing the industrial park to expand and attract good-paying jobs to the area.”
“Water infrastructure is essential to economic development and growth,” said Governor Asa Hutchinson. “The completion of the East Crossett sewer system is vital to the growth of the Crossett Industrial Park. This is a well-timed boost that demonstrates the power of partnership between the public and private sectors.”
“This funding is critical to attracting future investment and enhancing job opportunities in the region,” said Senator John Boozman. “Upgrading Crossett’s sewer system will help advance economic growth and development and ensure businesses in the community remain competitive.”
“This Economic Development Administration grant will strengthen Crossett’s economy by providing reliable jobs and modernizing the area’s sewer infrastructure,” said Congressman Bruce Westerman (AR-04). “Crossett residents understand firsthand the need for such vital investment in the East Crossett Sewer Improvement Project, and I am proud that the Federal Government can partner with the city to bring real infrastructure improvements to fruition.”
This project was made possible by the regional planning efforts led by the Southeast Arkansas Economic Development District (SEAEDD). EDA funds SEAEDD 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.