Hoeven Congratulates Bismarck, On Commerce Centre Groundbreaking, Bobcat On Expansion

Hoeven Congratulates Bismarck, On Commerce Centre Groundbreaking, Bobcat On Expansion

Gov. John Hoeven today congratulated the city of Bismarck and Bobcat Company on the groundbreaking for the first building at the new Northern Plains Commerce Centre.

"The Commerce Centre that we break ground for today is a perfect home for the Bobcat expansion that was just an idea two years ago when we spoke to Herb Henkel about it at a Chicago manufacturing expo," Hoeven said. "In the months and weeks following, we met with Mayor Warford and others, bringing together the city of Bismarck, the Bismarck Mandan Development Association and Kadrmas Lee & Jackson to help that idea become a reality. The Centre will not only meet the needs of Bobcat, but also companies throughout the region."

The state through the Department of Transportation has committed nearly $1.7 million to the city of Bismarck, Burleigh County and the Dakota, Missouri Valley and Western Railroad. The state also helped the city apply for and push the Economic Development Administration (EDA) to approve a $1 million grant to help develop the facility, and is currently pursuing another million dollars through the EDA for next year.

"It has taken a tremendous amount of work from a lot of people to bring us to where we are today," Hoeven said. "This Centre is not just a transportation hub; it is a gateway to the world for North Dakota made products."

http://www.governor.state.nd.us/media/news-releases/2005/08/050811a.html