U.S. Rep. Jim McGovern (D-MA), U.S. Sen. Edward M. Kennedy (D-MA) and U.S. Sen. John Kerry (D-MA) today applauded the Economic Development Administration (EDA) for awarding a $2,000,000 grant to the Worcester Business Development Corporation and the Town of Shrewsbury.

The grant funds construction of infrastructure for CenTech Park East, an industrial park. The site will accommodate industrial and biotechnology industries, creating jobs and attracting substantial private investment. When fully developed, CenTech Park East can support 650,000 square feet of building and create 600 jobs. Currently, only 3% of the developable land in Shrewsbury is zoned for industrial use, and this site is one of the few that is served by utilities.

"This is great news for the Central Massachusetts economy," Rep. McGovern said. "I am very excited about the CenTech Park East project, and I'm pleased that the EDA has recognized the potential there. I also want to commend the WBDC and Shrewsbury officials for their collaboration and foresight."

"CenTech Park East should provide an economic boost to Shrewsbury and other Central Massachusetts communities," Sen. Kerry said. "This new development will draw corporations from around the world and create jobs for people at every level of the work force."

Melissa Wagoner, Senator Kennedy's spokeswoman said, "Senator Kennedy is thrilled that this EDA grant will provide a boost to economic growth in the region. The Worcester area is wisely making its mark as a major center of biotechnology research and development."

EDA is part of the U.S. Department of Commerce. EDA describes itself as serving "as a venture capital resource to meet the economic development needs of distressed communities throughout the United States. EDA's mission is to lead the federal economic development agenda by promoting innovation and competitiveness, preparing American regions for growth and success in the worldwide economy."

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