U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina M. Raimondo announced that the Department’s Economic Development Administration is awarding a $1.8 million grant to the city of Dunlap, to provide upgrades and new equipment to the wastewater treatment plant, supporting economic growth and job creation. This EDA project, to be matched with $440,000 in local funds, is expected to create 160 jobs, retain 315 jobs and generate $28.2 million in private investment.
“President Biden is committed to supporting communities in developing safe and resilient infrastructure to serve businesses and create jobs,” said Secretary of Commerce Gina M. Raimondo. “This EDA investment will provide critical infrastructure improvements necessary to support diversified economic growth and job creation in the region.”
“EDA plays an important role in helping communities implement their plans to provide the vital infrastructure that businesses need to be successful,” said Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development Alejandra Y. Castillo. “This EDA investment to improve Dunlap’s wastewater treatment plant will provide for commercial, industrial, and residential development while promoting economic growth and job creation for the region.”
“This investment will create jobs and spur economic growth in Sequatchie County and across the region,” said Governor Bill Lee. “I look forward to the positive impact it will have on Tennesseans and thank the EDA for prioritizing rural communities like Dunlap.”
“The new EDA grant awarded to the City of Dunlap is well deserved,” said Senator Marsha Blackburn. “Tennesseans are grateful for the increased investment opportunities to create and maintain almost 500 jobs. I look forward to seeing the local private investment this grant brings!”
“This grant will continue to encourage growth in the economy by supporting necessary infrastructure improvements, and laying a strong foundation for job creation for the hardworking citizens of Dunlap, Tennessee,” said Senator Bill Hagerty. “I am pleased to see the Economic Development Administration continuing to invest in our great state.”
This project was made possible by the regional planning efforts led by the Southeast Tennessee Development District. EDA funds SETD to bring together the public and private sectors to create an economic development roadmap to strengthen the regional economy, support private capital investment and create jobs.