Press Release

U.S. Department of Commerce Invests $703,000 to Make Critical Infrastructure Improvements Needed to Support Business Growth in Watertown, New York

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration (EDA) is awarding a $703,000 grant to the Jefferson County Industrial Development Agency of Watertown, New York, to make water and fiber-optic cable infrastructure improvements needed to attract business development at the new complex located at the Watertown International Airport. According to grantee estimates, the project is expected to create 40 jobs, retain 90 jobs, and spur $3.5 million in private investment.

“We commend the Jefferson County Industrial Development Agency for working to generate economic opportunities by providing improvements to the local business complex,” said Deputy Assistant Secretary for Regional Affairs Dennis Alvord. “This project will deliver the necessary infrastructure needed to make Jefferson County a more competitive place and will provide further fuel for the expansion of the business park.”

Specifically, this investment will assist in the construction and installation of an on-site communications cable, sewer system, and connections to main service water lines. Nine shovel-ready parcels will be housed here, offering ample opportunity for space in the manufacturing, lighting, and office facilities sectors. The first company to locate in the park will be Hi-Lite Airfield Services, an industry leader in airport and taxiway markings, specializing in rubber and paint removal, surface preparation, pavement maintenance, and friction testing.

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.