Gov. Doyle: Announces Planning Funds For Wisconsin Rapids

Contact:
Tony Hozeny, 608/267-9661

MADISON— Gov. Jim Doyle today announced that the City of Wisconsin Rapids, Wood County, will receive a $45,000 planning grant from the Department of Commerce (Commerce) for economic development planning.

“My Grow Wisconsin initiative calls for investing in our communities to improve prospects for future economic growth,” Gov. Doyle said. “The city and its partners, the Heart of Wisconsin Business Alliance and the Community Foundation of South Wood County, have developed a comprehensive plan for entrepreneurial development that can serve as a model for other communities. The project is expected to leverage $565,000 in additional investment.”

The Heart of Wisconsin Business Alliance and Community Foundation of South Wood County conducted strategic planning in 2003 as a result of the significant paper-industry job losses in the area. Commerce funding will be used for an incubator feasibility study and plan; a cluster network initiative, and planning components related to Entrepreneur Boot Camp.

Commerce has administered the federally funded CDBG-PF Program since 1982. These grants play an important role in helping communities finance a wide range of projects, including planning initiatives, infrastructure improvements, senior centers, community centers, fire stations, and handicapped-accessibility improvements. Funds are awarded to projects that will primarily benefit low- and moderate-income residents. For further information on the CDBG-PF Program contact James Frymark, Commerce, at 608/266-2742.