The Limestone County Water & Sewer Authority has been awarded a grant that will help provide water to the future GE Aviation plant, an official said.

Daryl Williamson, chief executive officer for LCWSA, said the U.S. Economic Development Administration announced the $1.2 million grant Tuesday. It is a matching grant that will pay 50 percent of the estimated $2.4 million project.

“The funding will be used to upgrade the line going under (Interstate) 565 to GE and other industries that would locate in that area,” he said.

The grant was announced by U.S. Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross Jr. He described the GE Aviation project as the first of its kind in the nation to mass produce silicon carbide materials for aircraft engines, making them lighter and more efficient.

The project is expected to create 204 jobs and spur $221 million in private investment.

“The Trump Administration is committed to development that benefits communities across America,” Ross said. “I look forward to seeing how the Limestone County water system enhancements will improve the quality of life for local residents.”

Williamson said he wanted to thank those who helped secure the funding, including the Limestone County Commission.