Brian Neben, Central Nebraska Today
KEARNEY — The City of Kearney is excited to announce the award of a $2.6 million grant from the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration (EDA).
This grant will fund critical infrastructure improvements to support business growth and development in northeast Kearney.
The grant will provide for essential water, sewer, and roadway improvements, facilitating the expansion of the business park. This investment, matched with $653,696 in local funds, is expected to create 46 jobs and generate $27 million in private investment.
“This investment in Kearney will build regional economic resilience by providing job opportunities, expanding the tax base, and spurring new private investments,” said Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo.
Acting Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development Cristina Killingsworth added, “We are proud to partner with Kearney as it pursues place-based economic development strategies to diversify its regional economy. This project will create new jobs in manufacturing, shipping, and warehousing, fostering long-term resilience in the region.”
This project is a testament to the collaborative efforts between the City of Kearney, the Development Council for Buffalo County, private landowners, and existing Buffalo County businesses. The regional planning efforts led by the South Central Economic Development District (SCEDD) were instrumental in securing this funding. SCEDD assisted with the application and will help administer the grant, ensuring the project’s success.
Joint Statement from Kearney City Manager Brenda Jensen and Development Council President Trevor Lee:
“We are thrilled to see this significant investment in our community, which underscores the importance of collaboration and a shared long-term vision. By leveraging the development tools available to us, from local initiatives to federal support, we are able to continue the robust economic growth of Kearney and our surrounding communities. The long-standing partnership between the City of Kearney and the Development Council for Buffalo County has been pivotal in driving these efforts forward, and lays the foundation for continued collaboration for the benefit of our residents and businesses. This project will not only enhance our infrastructure but also ensure that Kearney continues to thrive for generations to come.”
