WASHINGTON – U.S. Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross announced Monday that the Department’s Economic Development Administration (EDA) ha awarded a $1.5 million grant to Johnston County, North Carolina, to make critical water infrastructure improvements needed to serve Ashley Furniture, a major regional distribution center being built next to I-95 in Four Oaks. The EDA grant, to be matched with $1.5 million in local investment, is expected to help create 161 jobs and spur $2 million in private investment.
“President Trump understands that reliable and modern infrastructure is fundamental to business development and success,” said Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross. “This project will extend vital infrastructure to businesses along the I-95/Town of Four Oaks corridor to accelerate business growth and make the area more resilient in the face of severe weather events.”
“EDA is pleased to support Johnston County’s strategy to enhance water infrastructure access to businesses along the interstate I-95 corridor,” said Dana Gartzke, Performing the Delegated Duties of the Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development. “The extended water and sewer lines will serve a major distribution center as well as protect local businesses from future weather events.”
“In communities of all sizes across our state, aging infrastructure is an overwhelming challenge,” said Governor Roy Cooper. “These critical dollars will help with maintenance, rehabilitation and replacement costs in Johnston County.”
“I want to thank Secretary Ross and President Trump for this $1.5 million grant that will make important infrastructure improvements and support much-needed jobs in Johnston County,” said Senator Thom Tillis. “This project will go a long way to provide service to a critical distribution center and job provider in the area.”
