U.S. Department of Commerce Invests $2.3 Million to Build Critical Infrastructure in Support of a new Healthcare Facility in Woodruff, South Carolina

WASHINGTON - Today, U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina M. Raimondo announced that the Department's Economic Development Administration (EDA) is awarding a $2.3 million grant to the city of Woodruff, South Carolina, to construct sewer infrastructure in support of a new regional healthcare facility. This EDA project, to be matched with $570,980 in local funds, is expected to create 18 jobs and generate $3.5 million in private investment.

'President Biden is committed to supporting communities in developing safe and resilient infrastructure to serve businesses and create American jobs,' said Secretary of Commerce Gina M. Raimondo. 'This EDA investment will facilitate the expansion of the region's commercial, healthcare, and industrial sectors to create new economic opportunities and good-paying jobs.'

'EDA is pleased to support the city of Woodruff as it seeks to diversify the region's economy,' said Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development Alejandra Y. Castillo. 'This project will provide for the construction of a new pump station and related infrastructure improvements to support the new healthcare facility, creating new jobs in the region.'

'This is big news for the region and the state,' said Senator Lindsey Graham. 'This funding will allow the City of Woodruff to make necessary infrastructure improvements to support a new health care facility. I appreciate the EDA's work to help turn this into reality. The Palmetto State is a great place to live and work, and this grant will help to ensure high-quality health care is available in the Upstate region.'

This project was made possible by the regional planning efforts led by the South Carolina Appalachian Council of Governments (SCACOG). EDA funds SCACOG 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.

About the U.S. Economic Development Administration (www.eda.gov)
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 invests in communities and supports regional collaboration in order to create jobs for U.S. workers, promote American innovation, and accelerate long-term sustainable economic growth.