FROSTBURG, MD. — The Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) recently announced a new grant to build a meat processing plant in Johnson City, Tenn.

The ARC awarded $991,546 in funding to the project that plans to serve local farmers in East Tennessee and Southwest Virginia.

Early estimates expect the project to serve 200 businesses in the area and have 19 workers/trainees.

The grant will also provide a workforce development program for butchering and related skills.

ARC said one new meat business once completed would create 21 jobs. The project will also include $5 million in private investment.

“By reinvesting in local food system infrastructure, there is potential to create an economy that generates livable incomes for thousands of Appalachian families,” ARC said in a grant statement.

American Rescue Plant Act funds and financial support are also being provided by Washington County, Tenn.

The processing facility is part of the Partnerships for Opportunity and Workforce and Economic Revitalization Initiative by the ARC, which awarded $47 million to 52 projects in Appalachian communities.