Friday, February 16, 2007
Contact: Jessica Robinson, 573-751-0290
Blunt Announces Funding to Help Rebuild Pierce City Armory
PIERCE CITY–Gov. Matt Blunt today announced that Pierce City will receive $190,000 in Community Block Development grants to complete the renovation of the armory building which was badly damaged in a devastating May 2003 tornado.
“The people of Pierce City have persevered through some very difficult times in recent years and their strength and steadfast dedication to rebuilding their community is truly inspiring,” Blunt said. “It is a privilege for me to announce this assistance from their fellow Missourians who shared in their heartbreak and now celebrate their recovery.”
“This project is important to me and to the continued vitality of Pierce City. We have hit some bumps in terms of funding for this project in the past. I appreciate that Governor Blunt and the Department of Economic Development have been responsive, hardworking partners with us in getting this project completed,” said Sen. Jack Goodman.
The Missouri Department of Economic Development (DED) administers the Community Block Development Program which was designed to help small communities improve local facilities, address critical health and safety concerns, and develop a greater capacity for growth.
Blunt’s announcement today increases the DED’s assistance in the armory renovation to $421,000. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has also assisted the community in its recovery efforts. As a small community Pierce City did not have the resources to rebuild after the tornado swept through the town so the federal and state assistance are helping community leaders move forward.
The armory was built in 1941 and has been very important to the community. Once the renovations are complete the facility will be occupied by the Clark Community Mental Health Center and will house 50 jobs.
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