Washington, D.C. -  U.S. Rep. Timothy V. Johnson today announced the award of a $51,628 planning grant for the Greater Wabash Regional Planning Commission.

     “This corner of Illinois has unique economic challenges that can’t be overlooked,” Rep. Johnson said. “The Greater Wabash Regional Planning Commission has made good use of this funding. I will continue to advocate for their needs and am hopeful of greater things to come.”

     The grant, approximately half of the total project cost, allows for the creation of an ongoing economic development planning framework that supports private capital investment and job creation in the region.

     The commission serves Crawford, Edwards, Lawrence, Richland, Wabash, Wayne and White counties. The Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy is designed to bring together the public and private sectors in an effort to diversify and strengthen the regional economy.

     For more information, reporters may also contact Sarah Mann, executive director of the Greater Wabash Regional Planning Commission, at (618) 445-3612.

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