The goal of the Public Works Program is to support long-term economic development in areas experiencing substantial economic distress through the creation, expansion, or retention of permanent jobs that help raise income levels. This is done through investments that support the construction or rehabilitation of essential public infrastructure and development facilities necessary to generate private investments that provide higher-skill, higher-wage jobs.

Background

The Central Puget Sound Economic Development District (EDD) participates in the Public Works Program on an annual basis, with local jurisdictions and eligible non-profit agencies submitting projects to the EDD for ranking. Projects are numerically ranked and sent to the Economic Development Administration (EDA) as recommendations for their consideration. Sponsors of these projects should then directly contact EDA to pursue funding. These projects will compete for federal public works grant monies. Staff is available to assist sponsors of top tier projects to work with EDA staff on their proposals. Please note that EDA funding is not guaranteed through this process. Jurisdictions can also approach the EDA directly, if desired.