Town of Murphy Awarded $2.1 Million EDA Grant for Critical Infrastructure

Press Release

The Town of Murphy has been awarded a $2.1 million grant from the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) to construct a new sewer lift station that will move critical infrastructure out of the floodplain, improve reliability, and support future economic growth. The award was announced by U.S. Deputy Secretary of Commerce Paul Dabbar during an event in Asheville on Monday highlighting federal investments that will strengthen Western North Carolina’s economy and continue the region’s recovery from Hurricane Helene.

The funding was awarded through EDA’s FY 2025 Disaster Supplemental Grant Program, which supports long-term economic recovery in communities impacted by natural disasters. Murphy’s new lift station will replace aging infrastructure, provide reliable service to homes, businesses, schools, healthcare facilities, and the Riverwalk area, and create the capacity needed to support existing businesses and future economic development.

“This investment is about protecting Murphy’s future,” said Mayor Tim Radford. “Reliable infrastructure is the foundation of a strong community. It protects the services we depend on every day, supports our local economy, and ensures we’re ready for new opportunities as Murphy continues to grow.”

Town Manager Chad Simons led the Town’s grant application process, devoting significant time and effort to developing the successful proposal that secured the highly competitive federal funding. The Town also recognizes Hillary Sherman, North Carolina and South Carolina Economic Development Representative for the EDA, whose guidance and support were instrumental throughout the application process. Dogwood Health Trust provided the required local matching funds, helping make the project possible.

The Town of Murphy extends its sincere appreciation to the U.S. Economic Development Administration, U.S. Deputy Secretary of Commerce Paul Dabbar, Governor Josh Stein and the North Carolina Department of Commerce, Dogwood Health Trust, Russ Harris, Becca Scott and Anne Wade with Southwestern Commission, Cherokee County, and everyone who helped move this project forward. The Town also appreciates Congressman Chuck Edwards, whose work on the House Appropriations Committee helped provide the supplemental funding that made these EDA recovery investments possible, and for joining federal, state, and local leaders in announcing this important investment in Murphy’s future.