Press Releases

The U.S. Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration (EDA) has awarded $462,000 to the Cumberland Plateau Planning District Commission. One EDA investment of $210,000 supports the development and implementation of an economic development framework. A second EDA investment of $252,000 will fund the hiring of a disaster recovery coordinator to assist with disaster recovery related projects in the region. U.S. Congressman Morgan Griffith (R-VA) issued the following statement:

“The Cumberland Plateau Planning District Commission serves Buchanan, Dickenson, Russell and Tazewell Counties.

“These EDA investments for $462,000 help the Commission address natural disaster and economic development issues that affect the regional economies.” 

BACKGROUND

The $210,000 grant was administered through the Economic Development District Planning grant program.

The $252,000 grant was administered through the natural disaster supplemental package that Congress passed in the American Relief Act of 2024. Congressman Griffith supported the spending package as he continually advocated for it to include disaster relief.

A disaster recovery coordinator will help produce technical assistance, planning and management of disaster relief projects in the region.

Both grants are designed to strengthen regional economies and attract private investments.

In April 2025, Congressman Griffith met with the heads of planning district commissions based in Southwest Virginia.

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