Rep. Jamie Kiel announced this week a $200,000 grant to the City of Red Bay that will improve infrastructure in the West Franklin Regional Industrial Park.
The Community Development Block (CDBG) grant comes from the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs. The funds will be used for the construction of sewer and road improvements to accommodate the 45,000-square feet expansion of Southeast Sales, Inc., in Red Bay.
Southeast Sales, currently located in downtown Red Bay, is a wholesale and retail business that sells outdoor equipment, hardware, tools and other industrial equipment. The expansion is expected to create 25 new jobs.
Kiel said expansion of small business has been, and will remain, a priority of his.
“Over the last three years, I have made it a priority to stand up for the small businesses in our area and assist with job creation whenever possible. Southeast Sales is a growing company with solid leadership and I was happy to assist with the grant,” Kiel said.
The City of Red Bay has committed $42,850 in matching funds to the project.
“The City of Red Bay appreciates the efforts of many individuals who joined in the efforts of preparing and presenting the application of need for infrastructure funds to accommodate the second new industry to the West Franklin Industrial Park in Red Bay,” said Red Bay Mayor Charlene Fancher.
“I especially thank Rep. Kiel, Sen. (Larry) Stutts, NACOLG and City Engineer, Rod Hawkins, for their support on this endeavor,” she added.
Kiel also said the project, with 25 new jobs, highlights the importance of job creation within House District 18.
“Job creation continues to be a focus for me as we continue to navigate the post-COVID era. Business is different now, but the bottom line is that we must press forward and keep Alabama's economy strong. Red Bay is a wonderful town and I'm glad to see it continue to prosper,” Kiel said.
