U.S. Department of Commerce Invests $4.2 Million to Advance Indigenous Forestry Resource Industrial Development in Port Angeles, Washington

WASHINGTON- Today, U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo announced the Department's Economic Development Administration (EDA) is awarding a $4.2 million grant to the Clallam County Economic Development Council in Port Angeles, Washington, to advance indigenous forestry resource industrial development in the region.

This grant will fund the implementation of a regional program to bolster economic capacity for the local indigenous business community. This EDA investment will be matched with $1 million in local funds.

"The Biden-Harris Administration's Investing in America agenda is focused on providing all communities with the opportunities and resources they need to thrive in today's economy, while readying them for success in the future," said Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo. "This EDA investment will support redevelopment of the Forks Industrial Park, implementation of a forestry workforce development program, completion of environmental studies, and more to advance the forestry products industry and make Clallam County more resilient and prosperous."

"EDA works closely with local communities to support place-based economic development," said Acting Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development Cristina Killingsworth. "This project will provide new opportunities for business development, producing a skilled workforce to obtain high-quality jobs and diversifying the regional economy."

"I'm thrilled to see this critical investment in indigenous forestry resources and workforce development," said Representative Emily Randall (WA-6). "Tribal communities have stewarded the lands and waters and forests of the Peninsula since time immemorial, and following their lead will build a stronger, more inclusive, more resilient economy for all of us. I look forward to seeing the positive impact these dollars will have for real people and the place we live."

About the U.S. Economic Development Administration (www.eda.gov)
The mission of the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) is to lead the federal economic development agenda by promoting competitiveness and preparing the nation's regions for growth and success in the worldwide economy. An agency within the U.S. Department of Commerce, EDA invests in communities and supports regional collaboration in order to create jobs for U.S. workers, promote American innovation, and accelerate long-term sustainable economic growth.