U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo recently announced novel funding to be delivered to Madawaska, Maine, for the redevelopment of the downtown plaza. The U.S. Economic Development Administration is awarding a $2 million grant for expanding the farmers market, renovating a nearby vacant building and improving transportation infrastructure, according to an Aug. 22 news release.
“President Biden’s Investing in America agenda is providing communities with the resources they need to grow and diversify their economies,” Raimondo said in the release. “This EDA investment will support engineering, site redevelopment and infrastructure improvements to promote private sector investment and create new economic opportunity in Madawaska.”
This funds aims to boost business, create 32 jobs and generate $14.1 million in private investment with a $503,000 local fund match, the release reported.
“The Economic Development Administration is pleased to partner with the town of Madawaska in their place-based approach to supporting existing businesses and bringing new businesses and jobs to the region," Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development Alejandra Y. Castillo said in the release. "Revitalization of Madawaska’s town center will boost business and job growth in this important border town and commercial port of entry.”
“Madawaska is among our state’s most iconic and vibrant communities. For generations, the town’s historic downtown plaza has fueled cross-border business and supported the local economy," Sens. Susan Collins, R-Maine, and Angus King, D-Maine, and Congressman Jared Golden, D-Maine, said in a joint statement, according to the release. "This significant job-creating investment from the EDA will modernize the plaza, encourage private investment and help the town access 21st century opportunities. We look forward to seeing the impact of this federal funding and the improvements it will bring to our Northern Maine communities.”
“This significant federal investment will create jobs and attract new businesses to the heart of St. John Valley,” Gov. Janet Mills said in the release. “I thank the Biden-Harris administration for their continued, historic investments in Maine people and Maine communities.”
