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Thompson Announces $90,000 Federal Grant for Warren County Development Association

July 18, 2018

Funding will complete local project aimed at increasing adult educational opportunities, small business development

WASHINGTON – U.S. Representative Glenn ‘GT' Thompson today announced a federal grant that will help the Warren County Development Association complete a local project that will grow jobs and boost the economic environment in the City of Warren.

USDA Rural Development awarded the $90,000 grant to the Association for its 201 Liberty Redevelopment Project. Its goal is to increase educational opportunities, small-business development and growth, and enhanced business activities in the City of Warren.

A co-working environment will serve to stimulate, incubate and accelerate small business development within the community. This type of environment will be the first of its kind in the region.

"I am thrilled for Warren County and the City of Warren to begin this exciting new development, made possible thanks to funding from USDA Rural Development," Rep. Thompson said. "Increasing educational opportunities for adults in the region will lead to better-paying, family-sustaining jobs. I want to especially thank Ben Kafferlin and the Warren County Commissioners for their vision, and I wish all those associated with the 201 Liberty Redevelopment Project the best of luck moving forward."

"Collaborative workspace is growing fast and we aim to be a part of the movement. In an economic environment where young people are leaving rural communities for jobs, co-working is a chance to attract some of them back to Warren County," said Warren County Commissioner Ben Kafferlin. " Our new ‘Innovault' space, funded in large part by this grant, will, I believe, be the start of revolutionizing our local economy. We hope to be home to many startups, freelancers, small businesses and independent workers who spin up new, innovative businesses that strengthen the community.

"Warren County is already attractive to people who love outdoor recreation. If we can also provide a space for people to flourish occupationally, maybe we can reverse the population decline and kick-start the local economy with homegrown entrepreneurship. I'd like to thank Congressman Thompson and the USDA for their commitment to rural communities like ours and capturing the vision for our future economy."

ABOUT THE PROJECT

This Rural Development investment will be used to complete interior renovations and improvements to the co-working center to be located on the first floor of 201 Liberty Street.

Restroom facilities will be upgraded along with floor coverings, wall treatments, and installation of wireless high-speed broadband service.

ABOUT USDA RURAL DEVELOPMENT

USDA Rural Development provides loans and grants to help expand economic opportunities and create jobs in rural areas.

This assistance supports infrastructure improvements; business development; housing; community services such as schools, public safety and health care, and high-speed internet access in rural areas.