Lenoir Community College lands $2 million grant to renovate health sciences building

KINSTON, Lenoir County — The Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration is awarding a $2 million grant to Lenoir Community College in Kinston to support the renovation of the Business Technology Building to become the Floyd Health Sciences Building.

The EDA grant, to be matched with more than $5 million in state funding and $115,439 in local investment, is expected to create over 500 jobs.

“The healthcare industry is advancing rapidly under the Trump Administration, and we are committed to providing American jobs that support its growth,” said Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross. “Lenoir Community College’s new facility will boost the local economy by creating jobs and arming the region with better medical services.”

Acting Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development Dana Gartzke says the investment will enhance the growth of the healthcare industry in eastern North Carolina.

“The new Floyd Health Sciences Building will feature labs, classrooms, conference rooms and office space, providing students with the tools they need to prepare for careers in the field,” Gratzke explained.

The announcement came as restrictions meant to minimize the spread of the coronavirus increase across the state.

“Health services have never been more critical to our state,” said Governor Roy Cooper. “These funds will help Lenoir Community College continue to prepare our workforce for North Carolina's needs.”

Lenoir Community College President Dr. Rusty Hunt says the grant will allow them to expand and enhance the health sciences and nursing programs to meet the ever-growing need of health care professionals in the region.

Hunt added, “We greatly appreciate the EDA and the support from our national, state, and local leaders, as well as our partners in the health care industry. This is a great day for Lenoir Community College and for the students we serve.”

Congressman Greg Murphy wrote to Commerce Secretary Ross, requesting the funding.

“Lenoir Community College’s health sciences facility is a deserving recipient, especially at a time when many North Carolinians deserve economic expansion," he said, "With constituents considering alternative employment opportunities, this grant will support the growth of a regional workforce development program to health care professionals and support personnel.”

Officials say the project was made possible by the regional planning efforts led by the Eastern Carolina Council, which EDA funds to bring together the public and private sectors to create an economic development roadmap to strengthen the regional economy, support private capital investment and create jobs.