MONTGOMERY – Gov. Robert Bentley has awarded a $120,000 grant to create jobs and spur economic development in the city of Cullman.
The Community Development Block Grant will fund infrastructure necessary for the construction of a La Quinta Inn and Suites near the intersection of Interstate 65 and Alabama Highway 157. The new facility, which will create 13 jobs, is expected to enhance economic development occurring in an area of the city that is rapidly catching the attention of commercial development.
“Development of new hotels and restaurants are an indicator of an area’s vitality,” Bentley said. “Cullman County and city continue to grow and develop because residents know that it is a good place to live, work, play and obtain a quality education.”
Funding will be used to extend St. Joseph Drive, a dead-end street where the hotel will be built, with Hayes Drive. The road connection will enable better vehicle access and help the city avoid traffic congestion.
The city will provide $100,000 in matching funds for the project and will design and monitor construction of the road.
Bentley notified Mayor Max Townson that the grant had been approved.
The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs is administering the grant from funds made available to the state by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. ADECA administers a wide range of programs that support law enforcement, economic development, infrastructure upgrades, recreation, energy, water resources, job training and career development.
