WASHINGTON – U.S. Sens. Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine (both D-VA) today announced $1,600,000 in federal funds for planning district commissions in Virginia to support redevelopment and revitalization in order to diversify and strengthen regional economies. The funding was authorized by the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act supported by Sens. Warner and Kaine.

"We're pleased to announce this critical funding which will support Virginia's planning district commissions in addressing the COVID-19 outbreak that has devastated our communities. We must ensure they are equipped with the tools necessary to continue to provide essential services while keeping workers safe," said the Senators. 

The funding will be distributed as follows: 

• The Crater Planning District Commission will receive $400,000; 
• The Cumberland Plateau Planning District Commission will receive $400,000; 
• The West Piedmont Planning District Commission will receive $400,000; 
• The Central Shenandoah Planning District Commission will receive $400,000.

Through the CARES Act, Congress provided $1.5 billion for economic development assistance programs to help communities prevent, prepare for, and respond to COVID-19. The funding was awarded through the EDA’s CARES Act Recovery Assistance, which provides financial assistance to communities and regions as they respond to and recover from the pandemic's fallout.

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