Congressman Travis Childers Presents ARC Grant to Monroe County

 October 21, 2008

 Washington, DC - Congressman Travis Childers (D-MS) presented an Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) grant in the amount of $200,000 to Monroe County this afternoon.  The grant will directly benefit RTI International by providing funding for an essential new water treatment plant.

"These funds are an important and necessary investment in North Mississippi's health, safety, and economic development," said Congressman Childers. "I am pleased to present Monroe County with this grant on behalf of ARC. This money will help ensure that its citizens have access to safe water, while creating jobs and promoting economic growth."

The ARC funds will be used to construct a 500 GPM water treatment plant in Hamilton, Mississippi.  The infrastructure improvements will enable the development of a premium grade titanium sponge facility, which requires a significant amount of water to operate.  The construction will support 170 new jobs, leverage $125 million in private investment, and enhance the region's economic growth, prosperity, and economic diversification. 

In addition to ARC funds, state sources will provide $1,800,000 and local sources will provide $555,000, bringing the total project funding to $2,555,000.

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