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Three Greater Minnesota Cities Awarded Infrastructure Grants

Funding will support infrastructure improvements in Arlington, Becker and Hendricks

ST. PAUL – Grants totaling more than $2 million were approved by the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) for infrastructure projects in three Greater Minnesota communities.

DEED awarded the funding from its Greater Minnesota Business Development Public Infrastructure Grant Program for projects in Arlington, Becker and Hendricks. The grants were approved during the fourth quarter of 2018.

“Investments in public infrastructure are critical to the economic success of Greater Minnesota communities,” said Governor Tim Walz. “These grants will help spur that economic development and will create nearly 120 new jobs in Arlington, Becker and Hendricks.”

The BDPI grant program supports counties outside the Twin Cities metropolitan area. Under the program, DEED awards 50 percent of eligible capital costs for the qualifying public infrastructure projects. These projects include wastewater collection and treatment, drinking water, storm sewers, and more.

The DEED website has more details about the Greater Minnesota Business Development Public Infrastructure Grant Program.

The following is a breakdown of the latest funding:

Arlington, $94,625

Arlington was awarded $94,625 to assist with the water and sewer extensions necessary for a new Ninkasi Hops, Inc. growing and processing facility that will create 12 new full-time jobs.

Becker, $1,789,150

Becker was awarded $1,789,150 to assist Northern Metals Recycling in relocating to Becker. The funds will assist with streets, sanitary sewer, storm sewer, and water extensions to the site. Northern Metals will retain 45 full-time jobs and create 85 new full-time jobs. The infrastructure will also provide access to an additional 348 acres of industrial development. This project will also help attract additional investment and growth within the community and state.

Hendricks, $153,500

Hendricks was awarded $153,500 for assistance with sanitary sewer and water extensions necessary for Geronimo Energy to locate in the community. Geronimo Energy will create 22 full-time jobs and support the Blazing Star Wind Farm that will produce 400 megawatts and have 200 operational wind turbines. The infrastructure extension will also provide access for two additional businesses. This project will also help attract additional investment and growth within the community and state.

DEED is the state’s main economic development agency, promoting business recruitment, expansion and retention, workforce development, international trade and community development for more details about the agency and its services, visit the DEED website or follow DEED on Twitter.

 

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