Press Release

Manufacturing Jobs in Stone County, Mississippi Get Boost from U.S. EDA Investment

July 21, 2010
Contact: John Atwood, (202) 482-4085

WASHINGTON - The U.S. Commerce Department's Economic Development Administration (EDA) today announced a $357,350 grant to Stone County, Miss., to make access road improvements to serve the Piney Woods Pellets manufacturing plant.

"Advancing the alternate-energy sector to create new jobs is a priority of the Obama administration," said U.S. Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development John R. Fernandez. "This EDA grant will help create alternative energy-related jobs in Stone County by making vital infrastructure improvements needed to expand the wood pellet plant."

"The proposed investment will provide much needed jobs for the area and will benefit four of the county's largest employers," said Dale Bond, President, Stone County Board of Supervisors.

This investment will construct a new asphalt surfaced roadway to serve the Piney Woods Pellets manufacturing plant. It supports economic diversification and utilization of regional timber resources for production of alternative energy products. The project is expected to result in 50 new renewable energy jobs and $7.9 million in private investment, according to grantee estimates.

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.