Press Release

Commerce Department Investment Supports STEM Education on the St. Lucie West Campus of Indian River State College

August 9, 2011
Contact: John Atwood, (202) 482-4085

WASHINGTON - Acting U.S. Commerce Secretary Dr. Rebecca Blank today announced a $1.13 million Economic Development Administration (EDA) grant to the District Board of Trustees of Indian River State College (ISRC) in Fort Pierce, Fla., for infrastructure improvements needed to support a new science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) building under construction on the college's St. Lucie West Campus. The project is expected to create 1,245 jobs and generate $285 million in private investment, according to grantee estimates.

"President Obama is committed to enhancing and expanding STEM educational opportunities to keep America competitive in the global economy," Blank said. "This project will prepare students for high-skill, high-wage jobs in 21st century industries by funding vital infrastructure needed to meet the economic and educational development needs of the region."

This investment will allow IRSC to develop a Thermal Energy Storage plant to support the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) silver certification of the STEM building. The cost savings realized will allow IRSC to boost workforce development programs in high-growth industries that will provide sustainable, green, high-wage job opportunities in the region.

About the U.S. Economic Development Administration:

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 makes investments in economically distressed communities in order to create jobs for U.S. workers, promote American innovation and accelerate long-term sustainable economic growth.