WASHINGTON – U.S. Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao today announced a $600,000 grant to the state of New Jersey for planning activities related to the Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) actions planned for Fort Monmouth. In September 2005, the BRAC Commission released its report recommending the closure of Fort Monmouth, whose facilities extend through the New Jersey municipalities of Tinton Falls, Eatontown and Oceanport.

“This $600,000 grant will enable the development of a strategic plan to help workers and local communities prepare for the closure of Fort Monmouth,” said Secretary Chao. “Civilian workers potentially affected by the base closure will be a special focus of this effort to plan early and wisely so that resources are in place to assist workers and local businesses.”

The grant, awarded to the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development, will help the state initiate early community planning to ensure an effective workforce investment system response is developed. Activities planned through the grant include the development of clear and measurable goals for assisting businesses impacted by BRAC actions, the establishment of layoff prevention strategies and the leveraging of existing resources to prepare for the move from planning to implementation.

The target group for assistance will include Department of Defense civilian employees and contract employees at risk of dislocation as a result of BRAC actions.

The funds are being provided as a National Emergency Grant. Such grants are part of the Secretary of Labor’s discretionary fund and are awarded based on a state's ability to meet specific guidelines. For more information on National Emergency Grants and other Department of Labor employment and training programs, please visit http://www.doleta.gov/NEG/.