April 6, 2005

For Immediate Release

Contact: Charles Yates, VCEDA, 276-889-0381
Jonathan Belcher, VCEDA, 276-889-0381

Virginia Coalfield Economic Development Authority awards grant to Dickenson County Industrial Development Authority

CLINTWOOD, Va.—(April 6, 2005)—The Virginia Coalfield Economic Development Authority (VCEDA) today awarded a $50,000 grant to the Dickenson County Industrial Development Authority (IDA). The grant will be used toward tower construction and the purchase and installation of machinery and equipment for the Dickenson County Wireless Integrated Network (DCWIN).

DCWIN is a county-wide high-speed wireless network. It was created to provide high-speed voice and data services to regional residents, businesses, government agencies, and most importantly, to serve the needs of the public safety system.

“The ability for companies to send and receive data quickly and efficiently has become an increasingly important economic development criterion,” said Donald Baker, VCEDA chairman. “DCWIN offers valuable opportunities to improve the county’s economic climate in that regard.”

VCEDA’s grant will be matched by a grant from the Virginia Tobacco Commission. Funds will also be provided by Dickenson County, the Appalachian Regional Commission and the Center for Innovative Technology.

“Access to cutting-edge technology is important to the region’s future economic viability,” said Charles Yates, VCEDA executive director. “Innovative projects like these help Dickenson County remain competitive with today’s rapidly changing technologies.”