Press Release
U.S. Department of Commerce Invests $1 Million to Rebuild Municipal Water Infrastructure in Minnewaukan, North Dakota
Contact: Public Affairs Department, (202) 482-4085
Wednesday, July 11, 2012
WASHINGTON - U.S. Acting Commerce Secretary Rebecca Blank today announced a $1.2 million Economic Development Administration (EDA) grant to the city of Minnewaukan, North Dakota, to support the rebuilding of the city's water lines outside of a flood zone. The project is expected to save 146 jobs, according to grantee estimates.
"This $1 million EDA investment in North Dakota is an example of the Obama administration's commitment to helping rebuild rural communities impacted by natural disasters," said Blank. "The grant announced today will not only help rebuild critical infrastructure, but it will also save jobs and support local businesses in Minnewaukan and throughout Benson County."
"The people of Minnewaukan have battled the waters of Devils Lake for more than a decade," Senator Conrad said. "This funding is another important piece in the community's efforts to relocate away from the rising flood waters and will ensure the new community site has the infrastructure necessary to support the school and local businesses."
The city of Minnewaukan, situated on the western shore of Devils Lake in north central North Dakota, is the economic and tourism hub of its region and for the neighboring Spirit Lake Nation. The rising level of the lake has inundated the town and forced it to relocate vulnerable structures. The EDA grant helps fund the construction of a new water line, distribution system, and access roads for displaced businesses and a school.
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 makes investments in economically distressed communities in order to create jobs for U.S. workers, promote American innovation, and accelerate long-term sustainable economic growth.