North Carolina’s Rural Infrastructure Boost: New Grants to Propel Economic Growth
In a move set to invigorate North Carolina’s rural economies, Governor Josh Stein announced that the Rural Infrastructure Authority (RIA) has sanctioned four grant requests amounting to a substantial $1,890,000. These grants are expected to generate a total of 67 jobs, 53 of which had been previously publicized, and attract over $15.5 million in private investment.
“When we strengthen rural communities, we strengthen North Carolina,” said Governor Stein, emphasizing how these infrastructure grants bolster the state’s standing as an ideal business environment by creating quality jobs across its expanse.
Supported by the North Carolina Department of Commerce’s rural economic development team, the RIA evaluates and approves funding applications from local governments. These funds derive from a suite of specialized grant and loan programs administered by N.C. Commerce’s Rural Economic Development Division, led by Assistant Secretary for Rural Development Kenny Flowers. The grants fund a variety of initiatives, including infrastructure enhancement, building renovation, expansion, demolition, and site improvements.
N.C. Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley highlighted the potential of these areas, stating, “From the mountains to the coast and parts in between, North Carolina’s rural areas provide excellent opportunities for businesses to succeed.” He added that the infrastructure grants enable partnerships with local officials to make crucial investments in the economic well-being of communities.
Building Reuse Program: Revitalizing Vacant Spaces
The RIA has approved three grants under the state’s Building Reuse Program, focusing on the Vacant Building Category:
- Madison County: A $100,000 grant will be used to repurpose a 95,000-square-foot building in Hot Springs. This site will house Advanced BioGas Systems, a renewable energy firm specializing in landfill gas capture technology, creating 14 jobs and investing $2,889,384.
- Randolph County: A $230,000 grant will aid in the reuse of a 14,700-square-foot facility in Asheboro. Gillespie Precast, LLC, a producer of custom precast concrete products, will occupy this building, generating 39 jobs and investing $10,047,500, with 29 jobs and $5,144,500 tied directly to the grant.
- Vance County: A $200,000 grant will support Syntec Precision Technology Corporation’s new U.S. location in an 83,000-square-foot Henderson building. The company, which manufactures precision machined parts, plans to create 34 jobs and invest $8 million, with 24 jobs and $7,556,193 associated with the grant.
The Building Reuse Program awards grants to local governments for renovating vacant structures, expanding existing businesses, and updating health care facilities to spur job creation in economically distressed areas.
Industrial Development Fund – Utility Account: Infrastructure Expansion
A single grant under the state’s Industrial Development Fund – Utility Account program was approved:
- Town of Swansboro (Onslow County): A $1,360,000 grant will support the completion of roads, water, and sewer systems for a 47-acre industrial park.
The Industrial Development Fund – Utility Account allocates resources to local governments in the state’s most economically challenged regions, supporting infrastructure projects expected to create new jobs.
The RIA not only reviews and approves funding applications but also sets policies and priorities for N.C. Commerce’s Rural Economic Development initiatives. The authority comprises 17 voting members appointed by the Governor, Speaker of the House, and Senate President Pro Tem, with the Secretary of Commerce serving ex officio.
For further details, visit the Rural Economic Development Division’s webpage.
