U.S. Department of Commerce Investing in Jasper

Local Sources- U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo announced the Department’s Economic Development Administration (EDA) is awarding a $1.2 million grant to the city of Jasper, Indiana, for water infrastructure improvements to support local business growth along with job creation and retention efforts.

This grant will support construction of a new backup water supply connection necessary for local businesses, including those associated with the region’s vital wood products manufacturing cluster, to expand operations. This EDA investment will be matched with $1.2 million in local funds and is expected to create 225 jobs, retain 560 jobs, and generate $34 million in private investment, according to grantee estimates.

“President Biden is making sure our communities have the resources they need to grow their local economies,” said Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo. “This EDA investment in Jasper’s infrastructure will support local business growth, create jobs, and improve economic resilience in Jasper, all while building on the city’s long-established history as a wood manufacturing city.”

“The Economic Development Administration is pleased to support local efforts to create new economic opportunities and jobs,” said Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development Alejandra Y. Castillo. “This project will provide businesses in Jasper with the reliable water service they need to grow and thrive.”

We have reached out to Jasper Mayor Dean Vonderheide for comment.