Press Release

U.S. Department of Commerce Invests $1.5 Million to Create and Retain More than 1,500 Jobs and Spur Nearly $57 Million in Private Investment in Baldwyn, Mississippi

WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross announced that the Department’s Economic Development Administration (EDA) is awarding a $1.5 million grant to the city of Baldwyn, Mississippi, to support the local business community by upgrading the critical natural gas transmission system of the city. According to grantee estimates, the project is expected to create 425 jobs, retain 1,439 jobs, and spur nearly $57 million in private investment.

“The Trump Administration is committed to providing companies and communities across the United States with the tools they need to succeed,” said Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross. “Baldwyn’s initiative to upgrade the local infrastructure ensures the region will remain economically competitive, allowing businesses to thrive.”

“This investment, combined with $1 million just approved by the legislature, will go a long way toward improving energy infrastructure in Baldwyn. These upgrades will have economic benefits for the community and its residents,” said U.S. Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.).

“It’s great to see Secretary Ross and EDA making strategic infrastructure investments that can make a positive difference in small, rural communities.”

This project includes the replacement of a six-inch gas line with an eight-inch steel line, capable of providing more dependable service to customers. The replacement of this natural gas line is vital to the continued economic life and growth of this region. This project was made possible by the regional planning efforts led by the Three Rivers Planning and Development District. EDA funds the Three Rivers Planning and 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.