U.S. COMMERCE DEPT PROMOTES MORGAN CITY PORT IMPROVEMENTS

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                           Contact:        John Atwood (202) 482-4085
Friday, May 28, 2010
                                                                       
U.S. Commerce Department Promotes Morgan City Port Improvements to Expand Innovative Marine Businesses, Create Higher-Skill, Living-Wage Job Opportunities
EDA Grant Expected to Create or Save More than 500 Jobs

WASHINGTON - U.S. Commerce Secretary Gary Locke today announced a $1.75 million Economic Development Administration (EDA) grant to the Morgan City Harbor and Terminal District of Morgan City, La., to make vital bulkhead improvements needed to advance the expansion plans of a major, innovative marine-sector business and to attract new businesses and jobs to the region.  The project is expected to create or save more than 500 jobs, according to grantee estimates.
“President Obama believes that creating an environment where innovation can flourish and that investing in industries of the future is the key to building a stronger, more sustainable national economy,” Locke said.  “This EDA grant will create jobs by making the vital port improvements needed to expand existing businesses and to boost future growth in the region’s marine sector.”

About the U.S. Economic Development Administration (www.eda.gov):

This year, the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) marks 45 years of public service, with a mission of leading the federal economic development agenda by promoting competitiveness and preparing American regions for growth and success in the worldwide economy. EDA is an agency within the U.S. Department of Commerce that partners with distressed communities throughout the United States to foster job creation, collaboration and innovation.‪