This EDA amendment supports the erwin utilities authority with upgrading an existing wastewater treatment facility to allow increased production for a manufacturing firm in unicoi county, tennessee, a…

The U.S. Department of Commerce Economic Development Administration (EDA) awarded a $1,000,000 Project Grant under the Economic Adjustment Assistance (CFDA 11.307) program to the Erwin Utilities Authority, doing business as Erwin Electric System, on August 31, 2023. This grant funding will support upgrades to the existing wastewater treatment facility in Erwin, Tennessee, a designated Opportunity Zone, to allow increased production capacity for a manufacturing firm. The project is expected to create and retain high-paying jobs, attract private investment, and increase economic resilience in an area impacted by the decline of the coal industry. The EAA program provides technical, planning, and infrastructure assistance to regions experiencing adverse economic changes, with the goal of supporting long-term economic growth and diversification in distressed communities.

This EDA amendment supports the erwin utilities authority with upgrading an existing wastewater treatment facility to allow increased production for a manufacturing firm in unicoi county, tennessee, a designated opportunity zone. The project will serve as a catalyst for additional economic development projects in the future and will support the northeast tennessee regional economic partnership's ability to market the region to existing and potential new manufacturers. Once completed, the project will create and retain high paying jobs, attract private investment, and increase economic resiliency to an area that has been impacted by the decline in the coal industry.