$30K Grant Will Benefit Atmore Economic Growth Planning; Public Workshop Planned

February 12, 2019

Atmore will benefit from a $30,000 federal grant to help plan the city’s long term economic growth.

The USDA Rural Community Development Initiative Grant was awarded to Smart Growth America in Washington D.C.   The grant was announced Monday at Atmore City Hall by Jerry Gehman, volunteer city advocate.

The success of Atmore and the Poarch Band of Creek Indians is intertwined, according to Smart Growth America. It will offer an opportunity for the leadership of both entities to work together to achieve a shared vision and prosperity.

Atmore is currently making critical decisions about relocating and expanding community facilities as well as identifying locations  for future development. And, the historic downtown remains a “potent economic asset that it is looking to have listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Smart Growth said.

“Receiving this workshop is a testament to Atmore’s forward thinking and visionary leadership,” said John Robert Smith, senior policy advisor at Smart Growth America . “Atmore should be very proud to be included as one of just six communities across the country participating in the program. We’re excited to help them examine their economic and  fiscal choices to make sound decisions for the future.”

Later this month, Smart Growth will spend two days with local leaders surveying the city. They will take a walking and driving tour to see firsthand what Atmore has to offer. They will see the airport, take a downtown walking tour, see local industry, visit the hospital, Rivercane and more.

The public is invited to offer their input at a public workshop at 6 p.m. on February 19 at the Escambia County High School Auditorium.

“They get to see us just like we are now,” said Gehman.

“This is a first for Atmore, and I am excited about the long term benefits. I encourage our citizens to participate in the community meeting,” said Atmore Mayor Jim Staff. “Learn how this effort will help us grow in both short term and long term projects.”

Smart Growth also received grants for projects for small governments in Louisiana, Mississippi, Tennessee, Maine and West Virginia

Pictured top: Jerry Gehman announces a $30,000 federal grant for economic development planning in Atmore Monday at the city hall.  Pictured inset: A “Discover Atmore” mural in downtown Atmore. NorthEscambia.com photos, click to enlarge.

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Written by William Reynolds · Filed Under News