Press Release

U.S. Department of Commerce Invests $512,680 for Critical Infrastructure to Support Business Expansion Plans in Southeast Illinois

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration (EDA) is awarding a $512,680 grant to the city of Carmi, Illinois, to make critical storm water infrastructure improvements needed to accommodate the expansion plans of local businesses. According to grantee estimates, the project is expected to create or retain 125 jobs and spur $800,000 in private investment.

“We commend the city of Carmi for their efforts to take action to provide the infrastructure the local business community needs to grow and thrive,” said Deputy Assistant Secretary for Regional Affairs Dennis Alvord. “The enhanced roadway infrastructure along Illinois State Route 1 will help protect businesses from flooding and create new jobs by supporting the expansion of local employers.”

This project will support the reconstruction and modernization of Industrial Avenue from Illinois State Route 1 to College Avenue in Carmi’s industrial area and add necessary storm water infrastructure to prevent flooding. The upgraded roadway infrastructure will allow several businesses and manufacturers in the region to expand and create new jobs for residents. This project was made possible by the regional planning efforts led by the Greater Egypt Regional Planning Commission. EDA funds the Greater Egypt Regional Planning Commission 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 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.