Today, Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) announced $1,180,000 in federal funds he helped secure for the City of Seguin from the Economic Development Administration (EDA). The funds will support the construction of a one million gallon elevated water storage tank which will address expansion and growth at Continental Automotive Systems, which is expected to increase by 40 percent and will spur new industrial and commercial development in the region.

“I am constantly looking for ways to accomplish Congress’ most important task: creating jobs. These funds will help the City of Seguin attract business and economic opportunities with the expansion of local companies in the area,” Congressman Cuellar said. “In addition to creating 500 new jobs through industrial and commercial development, 600 jobs are projected to be retained and $18 million in private investments will be leveraged.”

The new system will replace an existing tank to a water site not yet determined. With the new tank capacity, the City of Seguin will meet increased water demand that has expanded due to new housing development sites.

“We are very pleased about receiving this grant for the water tower, it will enhance the water supply in that area which in turn will be of great benefit on an economic development project we are working with several factories,” said Betty Matthies, mayor of the City of Seguin. “It will also help to serve any type of new residential development, homes, apartments and more businesses in the area. There is a great need for it and we are very pleased to be the recipient of this grant.”

The existing tank, constructed in 1982, is no longer effective in meeting the demands of residents. Projected completion of the new water site project is August 2013 and will have a lifespan of at least 50 years.

"These EDA-funded projects will help bring jobs and economic growth to the City of Seguin by providing the critical infrastructure needed to advance the diversity and resiliency of the regional economy,” Congressman Cuellar said. “I stand ready to work with officials of the City of Seguin and Guadalupe County as we work together to bring more business opportunities to the region. I thank Mayor Betty Matthies, Terry Trevino, executive director of economic development for the City of Seguin, and Tim Neely, the assistant director of economic development for the City of Seguin, for their relentless efforts in securing these funds.”