KEDC RECEIVES 2024 CEDA AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE IN COMMUNITY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

Kilgore Economic Development Corporation (KEDC) received the prestigious 2024 Community Economic Development Award (CEDA) at the Texas Economic Development Council’s (TEDC) annual conference in Dallas last week.

This award honors KEDC’s role in securing a $55 million expansion project with Keeprite Refrigeration that is expected to retain 150 jobs, generate 60 new jobs, and significantly strengthen Kilgore’s diverse economic landscape. Notably, the Keeprite Refrigeration project aims to eventually enclose 1 million square feet on 70 acres in Synergy Park.

“Our Community Economic Development Award is one of the ways in which our organization honors the excellent work done by our communities, their leaders, and their economic development professionals,” noted Carlton Schwab, President & CEO, TEDC. “Each community nominated achieved excellence in economic development and substantially improved the economic base of their respective regions. The recipient communities in each population category were recognized for extraordinary accomplishments in meeting the criteria set forth in the nomination process.”

"KEDC’s work with Keeprite Refrigeration and collaboration with Longview Economic Development Corporation reflects a commitment to regional cooperation for the benefit of all East Texas," said KEDC Executive Director Lisa Denton. "This award from TEDC is a celebration of the teamwork, dedication, and vision that make Kilgore an attractive location for businesses to thrive. We are grateful to TEDC for this recognition and to all our partners who share our goal of sustainable economic growth in Texas."

This year, the CEDA committee received 39 applications. Nominees were judged on five criteria: innovativeness, transferability, community commitment and leverage, measured objectives, and secondary benefits. Kilgore received top honors in the Population between 10,001 and 20,000 category, which included 15 nominations.