South Central CT Receives Special Economic Designation

A new designation issued to the South Central CT development organization REX—whose members include North Haven, East Haven, and other nearby cities—could mean more jobs and business opportunities for the region.

In a release issued this week, REX announced that the state's Economic Development Administration (EDA) had awarded it Economic Development District (EDD) status, providing regional access to federal grant money, as well as governmental assistance in a variety of business matters. 

Representative Rose DeLauro commented on the news: "I am very pleased that the Economic Development Administration has designated the South Central Connecticut Regional Economic Development Corporation as an EDA Economic Development District. This designation will enable the region to utilize EDA funds to make smart, targeted investments in our local economy to create jobs now and in the long-term. I have worked to ensure that this designation was secured, and am glad to see it become reality."

DeLauro, advocating methods for bolstering CT's economic viability, has long supported the joining of governmental infrastructure and private capital to create new economic opportunities for the region. 

Ginny Kozlowski, Executive Director of REX Development, echoed the Representatives sentiment, saying in a release: "The designation will provide essential support for the region's economic development programs. To create jobs, we need the flexibility to utilize federal funding throughout the region, not just in the economically distressed cities. Implementation of the CEDS will have a significant impact on the economic vitality of our community." 

What steps can communities take to strengthen the economic life of CT? Do you think the EDD designation is a step in the right direction?