WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senators John Boozman and Mark Pryor along with U.S. Congressman Mike Ross (AR-04) today announced a $1 million grant to construct an industrial rail spur in the Clark County Industrial Park that will support expansion in seven existing industries and allow for growth of new industries in Clark, Dallas, Montgomery, Nevada, and Pike counties. 

This project is a regional collaboration of the Southwest Regional Intermodal Authority, Clark County Industrial Park Council, and the Economic Development Corporation of Clark County.  The grant is provided by the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration (EDA).  The total cost of the project is estimated to be $ 2,315,075. 

“This infrastructure investment is an important resource to spur economic development and growth throughout Arkansas,” Boozman said. “The improvements made with these funds will help attract businesses to the region and provide jobs for hardworking Arkansans.” 

“In order to create jobs in southwest Arkansas, we need to invest in infrastructure. These federal funds provide new momentum, boosting opportunities for current businesses and helping the area attract new industry,” Pryor said. 

“The Clark County Industrial Park is and will continue to be an important part of southwestern Arkansas’s long-term economic growth,” said Ross.  “This investment will help the region better serve employers in the area and will help attract new businesses, adding even more jobs.  There are so many good things happening in southwestern Arkansas as result of a strong, regional collaboration and committed leaders and this investment builds on those efforts.” 

EDA grants are awarded through a competitive process based upon the application’s merit, the applicant’s eligibility, and the availability of funds. More information on EDA’s grant process and investment priorities can be found at www.eda.gov.