Press Release

U.S. Department of Commerce Invests $408,110 to Create Jobs, Strengthen Economy in Auburn, Alabama

September 11, 2009
Contact: Bryan Borlik, (202) 482-4085

WASHINGTON - The U.S. Commerce Department's Economic Development Administration (EDA) today announced a $408,110 grant to Auburn University of Auburn, Ala., to help establish a Geographical Information System that will track critical utility infrastructure to help Alabama coastal communities better prepare for natural disaster events.

"The Economic Development Administration is pleased to partner with Auburn University to boost business development and job growth," said Sandra R. Walters, EDA Chief Financial Officer/Chief Administrative Officer. "This EDA grant will help coastal Alabama communities recover faster in the aftermath of a natural disaster by providing a system to identify, locate, and replace damaged utility infrastructure."

EDA is an agency within the U.S. Commerce Department and supports the economic development needs of distressed communities throughout the United States. Its mission is to lead the federal economic development agenda by promoting innovation and competitiveness and preparing American regions for growth and success in the worldwide economy.

Additional information on how EDA investments are helping distressed communities create a positive and sustainable economic future can be accessed at: http://www.eda.gov.