WASHINGTON — U.S. Secretary of Commerce Penny Pritzker announced that the Department’s Economic Development Administration (EDA) is awarding a $1 million grant to Dillon County to make critical roadway infrastructure improvements to serve the Tri-County I-95 Gateway Industrial Park and the I-95 Mega Site Industrial Park.
“The Obama administration is committed to improving our nation’s infrastructure, which is crucial for both creating jobs and remaining competitive in today’s global economy,” said Secretary Pritzker.
“This EDA investment will help create new jobs in Dillon County by providing the core infrastructure that will both grow local businesses and attract new business to the region.”
“We welcome federal investment in our district, especially in Dillon County, which has been overlooked in past infrastructure improvements,” said Seventh District Congressman Tom Rice.  “I applaud this collaboration between the U.S. Economic Development Administration and Dillon County officials as it will generate millions in new economic activity, create jobs, and signal to the business community that Dillon County is Alive on 95!”
Dillon County Administrator Clay Young said he was pleased that the county has received the grant.
This will help complete Phase One Roadway and make needed improvements at the park, said Young.
The roadway improvements support the expansion of a major discount tool retailer’s distribution center in the I-95 Gateway Industrial Park and enhance the potential for future business growth in both parks.
The investment is expected to create 150 new full-time jobs and generate $60 million in private investment, according to grantee estimates.

About the U.S. Economic Development Administration
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.