WASHINGTON, DC - U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI) today announced that the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) is awarding the City of Woonsocket $198,000 for the redevelopment of the Hamlet Avenue Mill area.Reed secured funding for the project in fiscal year 2006.Federal funding will be used to help the City of Woonsocket redevelop 17 acres of vacant or marginally used land, including several turn-of-the century mill structures on the north side of Hamlet Avenue. The city intends to use this land for a combination of light industrial, commercial, and office space, ultimately creating 750 permanent new jobs.Reed stated, The city of Woonsocket was one of the most important centers of Rhode Islands textile industry. Along with the closure of these once vibrant facilities, the community lost many important jobs. This federal funding will help to once again revitalize this area, creating new jobs and again make Hamlet Avenue an important commercial center.Woonsocket Mayor Susan D. Menard stated, I am grateful to Senator Reed for once again taking care of Woonsocket. This funding is extremely important to the economic development of the city.The project will be located next to the Blackstone River and the proposed Blackstone Valley Bikeway that Reed has supported. In addition to building demolition, the site will require extensive environmental cleanup and preparation. The city has received additional federal funding from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for this clean-up.This funding will help beautify the Hamlet Avenue Mill area for its nearby residents, and provide a place for everyone to enjoy, concluded Reed.