WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Ben Cardin and Barbara A. Mikulski (both D-MD), today announced the County Council of Dorchester County won a $607,750 competitive grant from the U.S. Department of Commerce to create and retain jobs and spur private investment on Maryland’s Eastern Shore. Dorchester County will use the funds to renovate and repair an existing, county-owned industrial building for expanded use by a local packaging manufacturer, retaining 102 jobs and creating another 20 new jobs.
“This crucial funding will help ensure that the Eastern Shore continues to benefit from the economic recovery by bringing needed new jobs to the area,” said Senator Cardin. “It also will make it possible for Dorchester County to renovate a county-owned building and invest in an industry that will expand green manufacturing. It’s a win-win for Cambridge and for the environment.”
“This federal funding is an investment in jobs today and jobs tomorrow on Maryland’s Eastern Shore,” said Senator Mikulski, who as Chairwoman of the Commerce, Justice and Science Appropriations Subcommittee, oversees funding for the Department of Commerce. “This federal grant provides double value for the taxpayer dollar, creating jobs while helping our Eastern Shore communities grow. I’m so proud to support grants that attract new businesses and pursue economic development. I will keep fighting in the U.S. Senate for federal investment in Maryland communities.”
The grant, awarded by the U.S. Department of Commerce Economic Development Administration (EDA), will fund the renovation and repair of a county-owned building currently leased by Interstate Corrpack, LLC. With the repairs, the firm will be able to expand its current operations to include the manufacture of recyclable products, adding 20 jobs to their rosters and helping to retain 102. The project will attract other ‘green’ businesses to the area and increase the region’s number of higher-wage jobs. This $607,750 grant from EDA is the federal portion of a total $1,215,500 investment planned for this project.
EDA serves as a resource to meet the economic development needs of distressed communities throughout the United States. EDA promotes innovation and competitiveness, preparing American regions for growth and success in the global economy. For more information, visit http://www.eda.gov/AboutEDA/AbtEDA.xml.
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