(Lincoln, Neb.) Gov. Dave Heineman has awarded a $276,600 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) to the community of Norfolk to help complete a street renovation that will allow for an expansion of Affiliated Foods Midwest Cooperative, Inc.

The grant will provide funding to build a street and rail crossing to link the current Affiliated Foods building with an adjacent parcel of land selected for a future expansion.

“The CDBG program has been a valuable tool by providing the funding that helps stimulate business and job growth,” Gov. Heineman said. “I’m very pleased this grant will help further the growth of a company that’s shown a tremendous commitment to the Norfolk community.”

The current building is located at the junction of U.S. Hwy. 81 and 275. The 35 acre parcel of land set aside for the expansion is located south of neighboring railroad tracks. Adding a new street will connect the two facilities and reduce traffic congestion, while providing improved highway access for trucks entering and leaving the Affiliated Foods complex.

Norfolk officials will provide matching funds to complete the project, which is expected to create eight additional jobs, bringing the Affiliated Foods workforce to more than 700 employees. Founded in 1931, Affiliated Foods is a cooperative owned by more than 800 independent grocery stores throughout the Midwest. The company has been located in Norfolk since 1936.

Martin Arter, president of Affiliated Foods, said, “We are excited and pleased that this project will allow us to provide improved safety for the people of Norfolk and our employees. We now have an opportunity to plan for future growth and expansion here in Norfolk, thanks to the funding being provided by the city and the state.”

The grant is part of the annual CDBG allocation made available to Nebraska from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.

FOR INFORMATION, CONTACT:
Jen Rae Hein, Gov’s Office, 402-471-1967
Ashley Cradduck, Gov’s Office, 402-471-1970
Sheryl Hiatt, DED, 402-589-0027

Individuals who are hearing and/or speech impaired and have a TDD, may contact the department through the Statewide Relay System by calling one of the following numbers:
711, (800) 833- 7352 (TDD), or (800) 833-0920 (voice).
The relay operator should be asked to call DED at (800) 426-6505, or (402) 471-3111.