The Terre Haute Chamber of Commerce held its third annual meeting on Wednesday. Leaders discussed Regional Economic Accelerated Development Initiative grants or READI grants.
VIGO COUNTY, Ind. (WHI) – The Terre Haute Chamber of Commerce held its third annual meeting Wednesday.
Leaders discussed Regional Economic Accelerated Development Initiative grants or READI grants.
Governor Eric Holcomb created the READI grant program in 2021. This helps pay for projects that help Indiana's population grow.
At the meeting, Vigo County Commissioners asserted that Vigo County plays an important role in the economic health of the region.
“Obviously, READI is a regional effort, so other counties need to look at it as well. But for the city of Terre Haute and Vigo County, we are the regional capital and we need to understand what we should do. I think it's important to recognize that it affects other counties in the area as well,'' Vigo County Commissioner Chris Switzer said.
Vigo County is part of the Wabash Valley River Development Association. It is one of five counties that make up the READI grant area.
The region could seek up to $75 million for the project.
The Wabash Valley RDA has identified four areas for project funding. These include recreational tourism, housing, early childhood education, educational attainment, and workforce training.
Switzer said the county's three commissioners supported multiple projects.
“The commissioners personally signed about 14 to 15 individual letters of support in Vigo County alone,” Switzer said.
A total of 37 applications were submitted in the Wabash Valley area.
“We look forward to seeing what the RDA comes up with and are ready to take further action,” Switzer said.
Grant winners will be announced this summer.
