Bastrop EDC helps businesses grow in our great city

The Bastrop Economic Development Corporation is a powerful tool for growth and business development. As the new chief executive officer of the BEDC, it is my intent and vision to see the city of Bastrop grow strategically and develop intelligently with the help of the chamber, city and the county. We must all work together to positively impact this area commercially.

Many people are not aware that the BEDC is a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping local businesses expand and retain additional employees, as well as attract new businesses to the city of Bastrop. The BEDC is authorized under state law and local ordinance to fund projects within the city of Bastrop and Bastrop’s extraterritorial jurisdiction. Each proposed project must meet the criteria of a new or expanding business. The BEDC can also fund certain infrastructure projects such as constructing roads, sidewalks, and bridges, as well as community improvement projects that improve the Bastrop way of life.

Recent and successful projects of the BEDC and the city include the newly constructed Seton Ascension Hospital and the Agnes Street extension. The BEDC has several projects in their beginning stages that will be completed in 2020. Those projects include the new Art Institute building at 921 Main St. and the hike and-bike trail expansion. These projects fulfill our mission to make this city more attractive for businesses, as well as improve the quality of life for our current residents — a true win-win.

My 2020 vision for Bastrop and the BEDC is to award three grants to deserving local businesses each year to help them either expand and/ or improve their businesses. The BEDC will begin accepting applications for these grants from local businesses starting in March/April 2020 with details to follow. Stay tuned.

Sincerely, Cameron Cox BEDC Executive Director