The North Carolina Rural Infrastructure Authority (RIA) has approved four grant requests totaling $1,890,000, according to an announcement by Governor Josh Stein. Aimed at boosting local economies, these grants are expected to create 67 jobs and attract more than $15.5 million in private investments. The grants, which were awarded to local governments, support a range of activities including infrastructure development and building renovation. Governor Stein emphasized the importance of these initiatives in strengthening rural communities across North Carolina.
The RIA, supported by the North Carolina Department of Commerce, reviews and approves funding requests from local governments. It is led by Assistant Secretary for Rural Development Kenny Flowers. The grants are distributed through specialized programs managed by the department’s Rural Economic Development Division. Secretary of Commerce Lee Lilley highlighted the role of these grants in enabling economic prosperity within rural areas of the state.
Building Reuse Program
Three grants were approved under the Building Reuse Program’s Vacant Building Category:
- Madison County: A $100,000 grant will support Advanced BioGas Systems in Hot Springs, aiming to create 14 jobs and attract $2,889,384 in private investment.
- Randolph County: Gillespie Precast, LLC in Asheboro will benefit from a $230,000 grant, designed to create 29 jobs with a projected $5,144,500 in investment tied to the grant.
- Vance County: Syntec Precision Technology Corporation will use a $200,000 grant to establish its first U.S. location in Henderson, creating 24 jobs with a $7,556,193 investment tied to the grant.
Industrial Development Fund – Utility Account
One grant was approved under this program:
- Town of Swansboro (Onslow County): A $1,360,000 grant will aid in constructing roadways and water and sewer infrastructure for a 47-acre industrial park.
The RIA plays a vital role in setting policies and priorities for grant and loan programs managed by the state’s Rural Economic Development team. The authority consists of 17 voting members appointed by the Governor, Speaker of the House, and Senate President Pro Tem. The North Carolina Secretary of Commerce also serves on the authority, ex officio.
Read More About This
