Press Release

U.S. Department of Commerce Invests $800,000 to Create Jobs, Strengthen Economy in Baker, Montana

February 23, 2010
Contact: John Atwood, (202) 482-4085

EDA Grant Expected to Create 88 Jobs, Save 310 Jobs, and Generate $5.7 Million in Private Investment, According to Grantee Estimates

WASHINGTON - The U.S. Commerce Department's Economic Development Administration (EDA) today announced an $800,000 grant to the Fallon County North Baker Water and Sewer District of Baker, Mont., to build water lines to accommodate existing and future business needs. The project is expected to create 88 jobs, save 310 jobs, and generate $5.7 million in private investment, according to grantee estimates."Economic recovery and growth are top priorities for the Obama Administration," said U.S. Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development John R. Fernandez. "This EDA grant will create and save jobs in the Baker region by providing the critical water infrastructure needed to serve existing businesses and spur new private investment." "The project will provide essential infrastructure to a primarily industrial area of Fallon County and results in an opportunity for additional development, business expansion, and entrepreneurship. The project will also support the burgeoning regional energy industry by providing critical infrastructure to suppliers," said Kenneth Griffith, Board Member of Fallon County North Baker Water and/or Sewer District.EDA is an agency within the U.S. Department of Commerce that partners with distressed communities throughout the United States to foster economic growth and job creation. 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 global 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.

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