The U.S. Department of Commerce on Tuesday announced a $1.3 million investment in El Dorado's rail infrastructure.
According to a press release, the $1.3 million grant from the Dept. of Commerce's Economic Development Administration (EDA) will be matched with $370,000 in local funds for railroad and other infrastructure improvements at the El Dorado Industrial Park, including the construction of railroad spurs and a cross-docking facility.
The EDA cited planning efforts by the Southwest Arkansas Planning and Development District (SWAPDD) as making the grant possible.
The News-Times reached out to the SWAPPD about the grant and matching funds but did not hear back by press time.
The El Dorado Industrial Park is an area off Highway 63/East Main Street which contains a number of manufacturing facilities. Union County Judge Mike Loftin said the rail work will take place off Industrial Road.
"It's going to amount to a spur into what used to be the Cooper Plant out there that's now part of Polyethylene (Containers)," he explained.
Polyethylene Containers is a plastic container manufacturing company based in El Dorado. The company celebrated its 40th anniversary in 2021, when they also announced their move to the Cooper Tire building, as well as the acquisition of the Rehrig Pacific pail product line.
"President Biden is committed to supporting communities as they build a better America," said Secretary of Commerce Gina M. Raimondo. "This EDA investment in the El Dorado Industrial Park will provide new opportunities for industrial businesses to expand and grow, strengthening the regional economy."
The investment in the Industrial Park's infrastructure is expected to create 125 jobs, help retain 25 jobs and generate nearly $15 million in private investments, according to estimates provided to the EDA by SWAPDD, the release states.
"This grant signals El Dorado's continued and growing value as a link in Arkansas's economy and its importance to the nation's infrastructure," said Governor Asa Hutchinson. "El Dorado's story is one of success, but its leaders have never rested and continue to chase economic success."
According to the agency's website, the EDA funds economic development efforts that can build a foundation for sustainable job growth in regional economies. The SWAPDD, which covers 12 counties, 65 cities and more than 250,000 residents, works to help communities in southwest Arkansas leverage resources toward economic, community, environmental and workforce development, according to its website.
"I think it'll be really good for the community. I know it will be good for the expansion that Polyethylene is doing out there," Loftin said.
"Investment in our local infrastructure is pivotal for the continued economic growth of El Dorado and the surrounding areas," said Rep. Bruce Westerman, AR-04. "I am glad to see the Economic Development Administration work with Arkansas communities to support businesses and families, and I look forward to a continued partnership between Union County and the EDA resulting in new opportunities for investment."