COLUMBUS — Both the Lawrence County government and Engines Inc. have been named

as recipients of the Governor’s Awards for Excellence in Housing and Community Development.

The awards are presented to organizations that demonstrate outstanding housing and community development efforts.

Lawrence County and Engines Inc. were honored for their successful partnership in the company’s expansion of its railroad car component manufacturing operation.

In 2004, the county was awarded a $300,000 community development block grant to help Engines Inc., a West Virginia-based company, to expand into The Point industrial park in South Point. The company manufactures railcar components and customized machinery for the steel industry.

With the assistance of the Lawrence Economic Development Corp. and the Huntington/Ironton Empowerment Zone, the county government offered the company a complete financing package, including more than $65,000 from the LEDC and more than $250,000 from the Empowerment Zone.

The money was used to construct a rail spur, extend gas and sanitary sewer service to The Point, create a parking area and purchase machinery and equipment. The $1.3 million project created 50 jobs.

“I applaud these organizations for demonstrating a commitment to improving the quality of life in Ohio communities,” said Johnson who also serves as state development director.

“These award winners have shown creativity and dedication in designing programs that address the housing and community development needs of their residents, that not only improve the quality of life for thousands of Ohioans, but contribute to the overall success of Ohio’s economic climate.”

Trumbull County and Maplewood Park Improvement Club

in Trumbull County also received recognition.