The Village of Vicksburg received tremendous news today when the Economic Development Administration (EDA) announced the U.S. Department of Commerce is investing $3.7 million in American Rescue Funds to support business development in Vicksburg.
The project will help create and retain jobs by supporting the development of two commercial lots in Vicksburg’s Industrial Business Park and a 100-acre industrial-zoned lot, in addition to the redevelopment of a former paper mill facility. The EDA investment will be matched with $6.9 million in local funds and is expected to create 200 jobs, retain 150 jobs and generate $100 million in private investment, according to grantee estimates.
“President Biden’s American Rescue Plan offers direct relief to American communities as they work to build a better America for the future,” said Secretary of Commerce Gina M. Raimondo. “This EDA investment will provide critical infrastructure that will help attract private investment and create jobs in Vicksburg.”
“The Economic Development Administration is pleased to support locally-driven strategies to boost business recovery efforts in Michigan,” said Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development Alejandra Y. Castillo. “The upgrades to Vicksburg’s wastewater treatment system that will be supported by this EDA grant will create new and exciting opportunities for the village and the region.”
“This grant from the Economic Development Administration will help Vicksburg upgrade its water infrastructure, creating and retaining 350 jobs and generating $100 million in private investment,” said Governor Gretchen Whitmer. “Today’s investment will build on our efforts to grow our economy, create good-paying jobs, and invest in every region of Michigan.”
“This funding will not only allow Vicksburg to make critical upgrades to its wastewater treatment system, but also expand their capacity for business and commercial development and generate further investment in the community,” said Senator Gary Peters. “I was proud to help secure this funding through the American Rescue Plan and will continue working to support new and innovative opportunities for growth in communities throughout our state.”
Vicksburg Village Manager Jim Mallery, while being ecstatic about the news, focused his response on the support involved in this effort. Mallery said, “We are a small village with big dreams, but these types of announcements take coordination and support. We are extremely grateful for the help and support provided by Senators Stabenow and Peters, Congressman Upton, Michigan Senator Sean McCann and former State Representative Brant Iden, without whom these dollars could have gone elsewhere. Three important partners of our infrastructure project also sent supporting resolutions or letters, they are the Kalamazoo County Road Commission and the cities of Kalamazoo and Portage.”
Vicksburg Village President Tim Frisbie added, “I’m very proud of our staff and their relentless pursuit of opportunities to keep Vicksburg vibrant and progressive. They are doing a very good job of keeping our wonderful community in the news and growing.”