WASHINGTON – U.S. Sens. Roger Wicker and Thad Cochran today announced the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) has approved a $412,500 grant to the City of New Albany to construct infrastructure improvements in the Martintown Industrial Park and support the creation of 96 new jobs and leverage $30 million in private investment.

“Updating infrastructure in Northeast Mississippi will allow the region to fully realize the positive economic impact of the Blue Springs Toyota plant,” Senator Wicker said.  “This funding will help provide a strong foundation for further economic development and growth in New Albany.”

The proposed project involves installation of water lines, sewer lines, gas lines, gate valves, fire hydrants, and road improvements.  The proposed infrastructure improvements will enable an automotive manufacturing supplier facility to locate to the industrial park.  The new company is a supplier for the Toyota assembly plant being constructed in Blue Springs.

In addition to ARC funds, state sources will provide $1,500,000 and local sources will provide $274,035, bringing the total project funding to $2,186,535.