September 21, 2007
Shimkus Announces $1.8 Million EDA Grant to Olney
Washington, DC... Congressman John Shimkus (R, Illinois-19) is pleased to announce federal funding through the U.S. Department of Commerce to the City of Olney. Through the Economic Development Administration (EDA) Olney will receive a grant of $1,825,000

"This EDA grant will pay for half of the cost to expand the Eastside Industrial Park," Shimkus explained. "I am pleased that we have been able to assist in securing these funds that will allow for construction jobs and new jobs at businesses locating in the industrial park.

Olney Mayor Tom Fehrenbacher stated, "The combination of these federal funds and city funds will allow for the construction of an access road, water tower, sewer lines, and most importantly, a rail spur in the Eastside Industrial Park. I want to thank Congressman Shimkus and his staff for their efforts and support during the EDA application process.

Shimkus secured $440,000 in the last federal transportation projects bill for upgrading the intersection at Route 50 and Holly Road, which will improve access to the proposed Eastside Industrial Park.