"Unfortunately the Bath area has recently experienced a series of layoffs and plant closings," said Senators Snowe and Collins in a joint statement. "In order to recover, they will need to develop an economic plan that will allow the area to offer increased economic opportunities. Funding from the Economic Development Administration will support the community in doing this and help it to get back on its feet."
The Economic Development Administration (EDA) aims to generate jobs, help retain existing jobs, and stimulate industrial and commercial growth in economically distressed areas of the United States. EDA assistance is available to rural and urban areas of the nation experiencing high unemployment, low income, or other severe economic distress.