For Release: Thursday, October 3, 2002
Contact: David Gillies: 202-225-5661

COSTELLO AND PHELPS ANNOUNCE EDA AWARD FOR SOUTHERN FIVE REGIONAL PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION

Washington -- U.S. Congressmen Jerry Costello (D-IL) and David Phelps announced today that the Southern Five Regional Planning and Development Commission, located in Ullin and serving the counties of Alexander, Johnson, Massac, Pulaski and Union, has received a $710,000 grant from the Economic Development Administration of the U.S. Department of Commerce. The funds will be used for a business incubator project located in Mounds that will house six businesses.

"Having an adequate infrastructure is necessary for any business to be successful and create jobs," said Costello. "This project will lead to economic development in Southern Illinois."

"I am pleased to announce this grant which will be critical to bringing new business and good jobs to the area," said Phelps. "Such funds are an important seed to future economic growth in the region."

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