Most Grant Money is Spent State officials told legislators Monday that they still believe most of the recipients of more than $200 million in economic development grants will come up with definitive plans for completing those projects by June 30.

“Our anticipation is everybody with free money on the table will step up and make these projects happen, or at least make commitments to make these projects happen,” said Brian Helmick, deputy secretary of commerce.

In 2003, the Economic Development Grant Committee approved nearly $225 million of grants for 47 development projects statewide. To date, 34 of those projects have yet to be completed — some have yet to begin construction — leaving $85 million of grants unspent. ...MORE