(The Center Square) – Four million dollars in taxpayer funding will be used for a “workforce development” building in Tucson hopes to build 135 jobs for the Pascua Yaqui tribe, according to a news release.
The grant from the United States Economic Development Administration was provided to the Pascua Yaqui Development Corporation in order to promote jobs for members of the Pascua Yaqui tribe. The release added that there will be a focus on the construction sector as part of the workforce development efforts.
“Arizona’s economy has unique needs, especially in rural and tribal communities, and it’s important that we continue to support these areas through targeted investments,” Sen. Mark Kelly said in a statement on Tuesday.
“This funding for the Pascua Yaqui community is a prime example of how we can create good-paying jobs and bolster our workforce. By constructing a new training facility and providing essential resources, we are helping to build a stronger, more resilient economy for Southern Arizona,” he continued.
According to its website, the goal of the development corporation is to bolster economic success for the tribe, which has a population of roughly 4,000. The corporation notably operates a commercial real estate management firm and a contracting businesses.
The Arizona Office of Economic Opportunity reported that in-state tribes have an average unemployment rate of of 13.2%, with the Pascua Yaqui sitting at 10.2%, based on estimates from January.
“Today’s $4 million investment will boost business opportunities for the Pascua Yaqui Reservation – supporting strong career paths for Pascua Yaqui Tribe members and fueling economic growth in Southern Arizona,” Sinema said in a statement.
Arizona’s tribes will often receive federal grants and support for a variety of purposes ranging from water to economic development, The Center Square reported.