Napolitano Fights For Pomona Fairplex Funds

(Washington D.C.)- On the floor of the House of Representatives today, Congresswoman Grace F. Napolitano (D-Norwalk), along with her colleague, Representative David Dreier (R-San Dimas), spoke in support of vital funds for the Pomona Fairplex Trade and Conference Center that has been included in this year’s Science-State-Justice-Commerce Appropriations Bill.  Efforts by Representative Jeff Flake (R-Arizona) to remove this $750,000 in funding for Pomona were defeated after the debate by a voice vote.

“This project perfectly fits the parameters of the Small Business Administration Account by supporting small businesses in an economically disadvantaged community,” remarked Congresswoman Napolitano.  “We must continue to provide resources that attract new businesses and expand the ability for local merchants to network, therefore bringing more opportunities to our area.”

Construction of the Fairplex Trade and Conference Center in the country's third largest non-port Foreign Trade Zone (FTZ) will generate 160 full-time jobs and over $36 million in economic impact.  The completed Center will generate a total of 1,694 full-time jobs.  Additionally, once up and running, the funds generated from the Center’s events will provide for its upkeep and maintenance, making it completely self sufficient.

The new 85,000 square foot, state of the art facility will attract and benefit Southern California small businesses via trade shows, conferences, and other events.  It will have both small and medium-sized meeting rooms outfitted with broadband connectivity, wireless integration and satellite two-way communications.  Additionally, the Center will provide the ability to display and demonstrate goods and services to international markets via established channels with the local economic council and the area’s universities.

The majority of the $25 million in funding for the project comes from private, city, county, and state funds.

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