NEWS RELEASE

IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                                                                                            From Congressman Bill Jenkins

September 30, 2004                                                                                                                                    Contact: Paul Mays (423) 247-8161  

WASHINGTON, D.C.—Congressman Bill Jenkins has announced the approval of a $500,000 federal grant to construct a million-gallon water storage tank in Cocke County. 

            The congressman said the storage tank project will help in the development of  commercial and industrial development that will lead to the creation of an estimated 150 new jobs over the next five years in the area. 

            “This is good news for the people of Cocke County. This is a needed project that will reap great benefits in the years to come,”  Jenkins commented. 

            Jenkins said the existing supply tanks are of inadequate size and elevation and in poor structural condition. 

            The grant is provided by the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) .  The Newport Utility District is also providing an additional $126,665 in funding

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