Press Release

U.S. Department of Commerce Invests $830,000 to Make Critical Pier Improvements Needed to Support Business Growth in Rockland, Maine

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration (EDA) is awarding a $830,000 grant to the City of Rockland, Maine, to renovate the Rockland Commercial Fish Pier. The renovated structure will support current business needs and future economic growth. According to grantee estimates, the project is expected to retain 86 jobs.

“We commend the City of Rockland for their locally-led efforts to provide the infrastructure regional businesses require for growth,” said Deputy Assistant Secretary for Regional Affairs Dennis Alvord. “This project will ensure that the pier remains a key resource for the region, supporting the local commercial fishing sector.”

This investment will support repairs and upgrades to the pier, including resurfacing, stabilizing the storage areas, and upgrading the electrical system. The pier supports Rockland’s reputation as the “lobster center of Maine,” which is integral to the area’s tourism and hospitality businesses. This project was made possible by the regional planning efforts led by the Midcoast Economic Development District. EDA funds the Midcoast Economic Development District 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.