Today, U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina M. Raimondo announced that the Department’s Economic Development Administration (EDA) is awarding a $3 million grant to the city of Millen, Georgia, for water infrastructure upgrades in support of local businesses.
This EDA project will provide a new well and water tank that will ensure reliable water service to new and existing local businesses. This EDA grant will be matched with $1 million in local funds and is expected to create 91 jobs, retain 5 jobs, and generate $34 million in private investment, according to grantee estimates.
“President Biden is committed to ensuring that our communities have the resources they need to diversify and grow their economies,” said Secretary of Commerce Gina M. Raimondo. “This EDA investment will provide water services necessary for local businesses to expand while attracting others to the region, creating new jobs and promoting economic resiliency.”
“The Economic Development Administration is pleased to support Millen as they work to grow their region’s economy,” said Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development Alejandra Y. Castillo. “This project will ensure a bright future for the local business community for years to come.”
“From funding the first-ever public sewer system in Wilkinson County to removing lead pipes for public schools to this new well and water tank for Millen, I am always working to expand access to safe clean drinking water and sewer services in Georgia,” said Senator Jon Ossoff.
“I am laser-focused on creating jobs and strengthening the quality of life for all Georgians,” said Senator Raphael Warnock. “It’s great to see that the EDA will be investing $3 million into Millen’s water infrastructure, creating jobs and empowering small businesses across Eastern Georgia.”
This project was made possible by the regional planning efforts led by the Central Savannah River Area Regional Commission (CSRA RC). EDA funds CSRA RC 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.