Wicker: ARC Level-Funded In 2008 Budget Plan

Press Release

WICKER: ARC LEVEL-FUNDED IN 2008 BUDGET PLAN

The Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) would get $65 million in 2008 under the budget plan recommended by President Bush this week. U. S. Rep. Roger Wicker said the request represents level-funding for the agency and would enable ARC to continue its important economic development activities in Mississippi.

The Congressman said the strong funding level would give ARC the ability to serve 23 counties in the state. In addition to business development, ARC provides funds for community infrastructure projects, education and health activities, telecommunications, and transportation initiatives.

"ARC programs have sparked economic activity and improved the quality of life throughout our region," Rep. Wicker said. "It is good to note that the Bush Administration also has confidence in the worth of this key federal-state partnership. I look forward to working with Sens. Cochran and Lott and my House colleagues to support this funding level as we move through the appropriations process this year."

The counties covered by ARC in Mississippi include, Benton, Calhoun, Chickasaw, Choctaw, Clay, Itawamba, Kemper, Lee, Lowndes, Marshall, Monroe, Montgomery, Noxubee, Oktibbeha, Panola, Pontotoc, Prentiss, Tippah, Tishomingo, Union, Webster, Winston, and Yalobusha.

ARC officials estimate that every $1 in ARC funding leverages $4 in private investment. They have a goal of creating or retaining 20,000 jobs in 2008. The agency's strategic plan also includes improving the region's ability to compete in the global marketplace and strengthening its infrastructure.

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