The CER is a state economic development infrastructure program that offers direct financial resources, in the form of public infrastructure to foster economic development in disadvantaged areas of the state and stimulate private capital investment and job creation opportunities for the general welfare of the state.

CER provides low-interest loans, or in unique circumstances, grants to local governments to help finance the construction of public facility projects required by private sector expansions and job creations.

Photo Courtesy of Alan Bisson

Counties, cities, towns, port districts, federally recognized Indian Tribes, plus special purpose districts (e.g., public utility districts), municipal corporations and quasi-municipal corporations with economic development purposes (e.g., public development authorities) are eligible to apply for assistance.

Eligible public facilities include bridges, roads, domestic and industrial water, sanitary sewer, storm sewer, railroad spurs, telecommunications, electricity, natural gas, general purpose industrial buildings and port facilities. In addition, pre-development and feasibility studies are opportunities in specific areas of the state.