Summit County Executive Russell M. Pry Vies for Federal Economic Stimulus Package Funding


Summit County Executive Russell M. Pry is pleased to announce that his Department of Community and Economic Development has submitted a list of shovel-ready infrastructure projects to the United States Economic Development Administration (EDA), a government agency that was established to lead the federal economic development agenda by promoting innovation, competitiveness and preparing American regions for growth and success in the worldwide economy.

In December 2008, the EDA encouraged public officials to submit a list of infrastructure projects that could begin immediately, should President-Elect Barack Obama’s Economic Stimulus Package be approved by U.S. Congress.

A total of 98 construction projects were forwarded to the Economic Development Administration. Among the plans listed are county-wide infrastructure improvements to local bridges, dams, roads and sewer systems; as well as projects that encourage investments, build government funded facilities and promote public safety.

“Communities from around the country will be competing for these federal dollars,” said Summit County Executive Russell M. Pry. “This is our attempt at getting out in front of the pack and communicating our needs to our federal leaders.”

According Pry, the list of infrastructure improvements were also forwarded to U.S. Congressional Representatives Betty Sutton (District 13), Steven LaTourette (District 14) and Timothy Ryan (District 17).

“It is still unclear what projects will qualify and how the funding will be delivered,” added Pry. “We just want to take a pro-active stance at attracting these dollars to our community.”