President Biden names El Paso among winners getting funding for economic development
EL PASO, Texas (CBS4) — President Joe Biden announced winners of his $1 billion American Rescue plan for manufacturing, clean energy, farming and biotech.
El Paso was among 21 sectors that will receive the largest ever for local economic development provided by the Commerce Department.
"We want you to continue having good jobs in your communities so you don't have to leave so the people in your communities aren't displaced," Biden said Friday morning.
The West Texas Aerospace and Defense Manufacturing coalition, led by the University of Texas at El Paso, will receive approximately $40 million for America's aerospace and defense manufacturing capabilities by adding manufacturers in West Texas into the aerospace and defense supply chain.
RECOMMENDED: UTEP breaks ground on new Aerospace facility
"This funding is an exciting and transformative investment in El Paso’s future and a reshaping of our economic landscape going forward,” said Congresswoman Veronica Escobar.
RECOMMENDED: Advanced manufacturing coming to city of El Paso
The winners were chosen from hundreds of applicants vying for grants that were part of 2021's $1.9 trillion coronavirus relief package.
The $1 billion in grants is part of the Biden administration's longer-term effort to revitalize parts of the country that have needed an economic jolt for existing industries and capital for new ventures.
"Together these projects are going to uplift underserved communities and include them as key parts of America's economic recovery for the 21 century," Biden said"
The Biden administration has repeatedly laid out a vision for the economy that is more self-sufficient and driven by high-tech manufacturing and the development of renewable energy.
“We are the border city and we're known for Fort Bliss, we’re known for Juarez and now we’re gonna be known for something else. We’re gonna be known as the ground point for the Aerospace Space industry," said Brenda Caraveo a UTEP minor medical engineering student & Reach assistant.
Watch UTEP's BBBRC Finalist Showcase Presentation:
“I tell people we will be able to go to bed tonight and wake up tomorrow morning and know that our city’s in great hands because these students are making a difference in the future of our community," said Oscar Leeser the Mayor of El Paso.
Sign up to receive the top most interesting stories from in and around our community once a day to your inbox.
