STATEHOUSE (Dec. 17, 2021) – Communities across all 17 regions in Indiana will receive $500 million as part of a new, innovative state grant aimed at increasing quality of life and attracting top talent, according to local lawmakers.
On Tuesday, Gov. Eric Holcomb announced $15 million will go to counties in Southern Indiana, including Harrison, Knox, Perry, Pike and Spencer. The communities, led by the Indiana First, submitted a regional development plan as part of a competitive grant process through the Indiana Regional Economic Acceleration and Development or READI initiative.
"These quality-of-life investments will provide an additional boost for our region's economic growth, including our many recreational and tourist attractions," said State Rep. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty). "READI grants will help us create new jobs and attract highly trained workers."
During the 2021 legislative session, the General Assembly passed legislation making a record investment in READI in order to encourage communities to partner and create a plan for the future.
"These grant dollars will help promote regional job growth and improve our overall quality of life," said State Rep. J. Michael Davisson. "I'm excited about the future of our communities, and believe our best days are yet to come."
Regional development plans across the state included housing, trails, broadband, childcare and wellness initiatives, workforce development programs, and telling Indiana’s story to the world. Davisson said the plans enumerated a nearly 10:1 capitalization leverage ratio from private and public sources as compared to the state investment.
"This partnership between the state and local communities will enhance the lives of Hoosiers and drive economic growth throughout southeast Indiana," said State Rep. Karen Engleman (R-Georgetown). "Business is booming in our state and innovative initiatives like the READI grant program will keep our momentum going. I look forward to seeing our region continue to thrive with new investments."
Click here for a full list of READI award recipients and visit iedc.in.gov to learn more about the READI initiative.
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State Rep. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) represents House District 74,
which includes portions of Spencer, Dubois, Perry, Crawford and Orange counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
State Rep. J. Michael Davisson (R-Salem) represents House District 73, which includes
Washington County, and portions of Orange, Lawrence, Jackson, Clark and Harrison counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
State Rep. Karen Engleman (R-Georgetown) represents House District 70,
which includes most of Harrison County, along with portions of Clark and Floyd counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
