THIS IS AN MBO REWRITE
Cass County, Indiana's agribusiness sector is set to receive a significant boost, thanks to a $1.75 million grant from the U.S. Department of Commerce. The grant, provided by the department's Economic Development Administration (EDA), will be used to improve the road system at the Cass County Agribusiness Park.
According to U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo, this investment will not only enhance commercial activity but also support ongoing industrial development in a region that has been impacted by changes in the energy sector. The local government will contribute $1.4 million to match the EDA investment.
The improvements to the road system are expected to produce or preserve over 200 jobs and attract $68.5 million in private investment, according to estimates by the grantee. This initiative aligns with President Biden's Investing in America agenda, which aims to provide communities with the necessary tools to support working families.
Secretary Raimondo highlighted the importance of this grant in assisting communities affected by changes in the energy sector to expand and diversify their economies. The Cass County Agribusiness Park, already a regional economic engine, will be further strengthened for years to come with this investment in vital road infrastructure.
Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development, Alejandra Y. Castillo, expressed enthusiasm for the project, stating, "The Economic Development Administration is happy to engage with Cass County through this strategic, place-based award as it looks to bring new possibilities to the region. We are excited to contribute to the Cass County Agribusiness Park's capacity expansion and give the local economy a much-needed boost."
The grant was provided through the Assistance to Coal towns (ACC) initiative, which offers competitive funding to towns negatively impacted by the decline in the use of coal. Projects funded by the ACC aim to promote workforce development, capital investment, economic diversification, job creation, and reemployment prospects.
With this substantial investment, Cass County's agribusiness sector is poised for growth and increased economic opportunities.
