OSCEOLA -- The Delta Regional Authority will give the city of Osceola $400,000 for the construction of a floating barge at the city's river port.
The state's two U.S. senators, Blanche Lincoln and Mark Pryor, made the announcement Tuesday with U.S. Rep. Marion Berry.
They say the new barge will increase the amount of product that can be brought into the harbor and that the project should create nine new jobs and retain 19 others.
The total cost of the improvements at the Osceola port will be $2.39 million. The Economic Development Administration said in September it would invest $1.46 million in port improvements.
"This project will help facilitate long-term economic growth for the area and stimulate job creation," said Lincoln. "I remain committed to securing federal funds that will strengthen our local communities and put Arkansans back to work."
"Arkansas's waterways are vital to the strength of our local economies," added Pryor. "These funds will help Osceola and surrounding communities create jobs and attract economic development opportunities."
"The Osceola River Port continues to experience a significant increase in commerce over the past few years," said Berry. "I am pleased to see this funding be used for such an important project for our state that will support our many industries. In addition, this funding will help support long-term economic growth of the region by attracting new businesses which will spur job creation and ultimately boost growth for the region."
The Delta Regional Authority is a federal-state agency that works to channel federal dollars and resources to increase economic development opportunities, improve infrastructure and expand access to education and healthcare for citizens living in the Delta.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.