EDA - Economic Development Administration

09/24/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 09/24/2024 10:53

U.S. Department of Commerce Invests $5 Million for Infrastructure Improvements to Support Business Growth and Job Creation in Page, Arizona

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo announced the Department's Economic Development Administration (EDA) is awarding a $5 million grant to the city of Page, Arizona, for infrastructure improvements to support business growth and job creation in the region.

This grant will support redevelopment of the Downtown Business District, to increase its commercial viability and promote tourism. This EDA investment will be matched with $5.9 million in local funds and is expected to create 36 jobs, retain 89 jobs, and generate $1.6 million in private investment, according to grantee estimates.

"The Biden-Harris Administration recognizes that infrastructure is key to building an economy that works for all Americans, and that America's workers are the source of our country's innovation and competitiveness," said Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo. "This EDA investment will support a revitalization project that will create jobs, promote tourism, and help build regional economic resilience in the Page, Arizona community."

"The Economic Development Administration works closely with communities to support locally driven disaster recovery and resiliency efforts," said Deputy Assistant Secretary for Policy and External Affairs, performing the non-exclusive functions and duties of the Assistant Secretary for Economic Development Cristina Killingsworth. "This project will provide critical infrastructure improvements to help diversify the regional economy and create jobs."

"Rural communities like Page are a critical component of our diverse and vibrant economy," said Governor Katie Hobbs. "Every corner of Arizona has something to offer, and these funds will help the mom and pop shops that are the heart and soul of this community expand their reach and attract new opportunities for growth. I know that with these resources, Page will be able to enter a new chapter of prosperity that will create new jobs, grow their economy, and lay the groundwork for a brighter future for us all."

"As Arizona's economy continues to grow, we need to make sure our rural communities thrive," said Senator Mark Kelly. "These investments will help the City of Page build the infrastructure it needs to attract new businesses and good-paying jobs-ensuring long-term economic growth for the community."

"We're proud to announce this $5 million grant to make infrastructure improvements for the City of Page - supporting local businesses, creating jobs, and expanding opportunities for Arizonans so they may continue building better lives for their families," said Senator Kyrsten Sinema.

This project is funded under the Disaster Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2023, which provided EDA with $483 million in additional Economic Adjustment Assistance (EAA) Program funds for disaster relief and recovery for areas that received a major disaster declaration under the Robert T. Stafford Actas a result of Hurricanes Ian and Fiona, wildfires, flooding, and other natural disasters occurring in calendar years 2021 and 2022. Please visit EDA's Disaster Supplemental webpagefor more information.

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 invests in communities and supports regional collaboration in order to create jobs for U.S. workers, promote American innovation, and accelerate long-term sustainable economic growth.