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Congressman Gonzalez Announces Federal Investment in Lower Rio Grande Valley Economic Development Initiative

December 22, 2017

WASHINGTON – Today, Congressman Vicente Gonzalez (TX-15), announced that the Economic Development Administration (EDA) has approved a $210,000 investment award for the Lower Rio Grande Valley Development Council (LRGVDC)'s Economic Development District Planning Project in Weslaco, Texas.

The $210,000 award will support the development and implementation of a comprehensive economic development strategy (CEDS) for Cameron, Hidalgo, and Willacy Counties. This CEDS looks to strengthen ties between public and private sectors and ultimately bring additional employment opportunities and economic growth to communities in Deep South Texas.

"I am pleased to see the Economic Development Administration invest in the Rio Grande Valley," Congressman Gonzalez said. "With this award, the Lower Rio Grande Valley Development Council can continue bringing together the bright, innovative minds that develop the very initiatives that allow our region to flourish."

"In 2017 LRGVDC celebrated 50 years as the region's Economic Development District administering, guiding and supporting the region's economic development growth," Executive Director, Ron Garza said. "This newly awarded ‘Partnership Planning' grant will allow us to administer a new CEDS which we've titled RGV2020. This ‘special-edition' CEDS plan will be developed in unison with many key regional leaders and stakeholders to identify, prioritize and implement innovative projects to continue guiding our region towards prosperity."

CEDS plans began in October 2017 and will continue to 2020. Since its inception in 1967, the LRGVDC has become a pillar of the community. Congressman Gonzalez supports the efforts of the Council and looks forward to seeing the results of the Economic Development District Planning Project.

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Issues:Economy