MERIDIAN, Miss.–More workers could be trained in the state, thanks to a federal grant that will help Meridian Community College complete work on its Workforce Development Center. The money is coming from the federal Economic Development Administration.
The $1.5 million will be used to finish expanding and renovating the building on Hwy. 19 in Meridian, which was a Wal-Mart at one time.The college said the building will have computer training, industrial maintenance, and welding classes.
“This is more than a grant,” said Sen. Thad Cochran, who announced the grant Tuesday. “It’s an investment. It’s an investment in the Mississippi economy and our state’s workforce. I commend Meridian Community College for putting forth a solid proposal and the EDA for recognizing the opportunity for businesses and employees in Mississippi.”
The overall project, which will cost $5.2 million, will also include training in electrical technology, truck driving, and construction trade technology.
The EDA estimates the MCC project could result in more than new 2,000 jobs and $44.5 million in private investment leveraged.
The EDA is funded through the annual Commerce, Justice and Science appropriations bill written by Senate and House appropriations committees. The EDA is an agency under the U.S. Department of Commerce that provides grants and technical assistance to support economic growth and new employment in certain communities.
