Press Release
U.S. Department of Commerce Invests $1.3 Million to Help Bring Major Paper Manufacturer to Clark County
Contact: EDA Public Affairs Department, (202) 482-4085
October 5, 2017
WASHINGTON – U.S. Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross today announced that the Department’s Economic Development Administration (EDA) is awarding a $1.3 million grant to the Southwest Arkansas Regional Intermodal Authority of Arkadelphia, Arkansas, to help build a public transload facility needed to accommodate the location of a major, foreign-owned paper manufacturing company at the Clark County Industrial Park in Gum Springs. According to grantee estimates, the project is expected to create 250 jobs and generate $1.3 billion in private investment.
“The Trump Administration encourages companies around the world to find local partners that can help them invest, expand operations, and achieve growth in the dynamic U.S. market,” said Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross. “The paper manufacturing company that will locate in Clark County’s Gum Springs will bring substantial foreign direct investment and quality manufacturing employment to the community.”
The Southwest Arkansas Regional Intermodal Authority was established in May 2010 to pursue a regional approach of developing intermodal facilities to attract and retain industries that ultimately increase and retain jobs. Construction of the public transload facility, which will include a crossdock, will help establish the Chinese firms $1.3 billion pulp mill.
About the U.S. Economic Development Administration (www.eda.gov)
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.