VIDALIA — Approximately $1.2 million has been awarded to the City of Vidalia for the construction of a technology center.

U.S. Sen. Mary Landrieu announced the award — which came from the U.S. Economic Development Administration — Friday.

The Vidalia Technology Center will serve as an incubator for start-up businesses and will be a hub to provide what Landrieu’s office described as “21st century broadband infrastructure” for local businesses and industry.

Landrieu said the VTC will be a cornerstone for the city’s long-term broadband initiative, and the city envisions the center will be a means to increase job creation and economic diversity.

“The City of Vidalia has actively sought resources to address the void in their broadband infrastructure, and the VTC is a critical step in that process,” she said. “I am happy to see that the Economic Development Administration recognizes this need, and I will see the construction of the VTC through to completion.”

Vidalia Mayor Hyram Copeland said the EDA funding would be a tremendous asset for the city.

“The (technology) center will bring our city into the 21st century and help us to prepare for high speed Internet,” Copeland said.  “This could not have been possible without Senator Landrieu, and we are so thankful for her continued support throughout the years.  We are also grateful for the assistance from the EDA’s regional director, Pedro R. Garza, and the Economic Development Administration.”

Copeland has previously said the technology center could be located on the site of the former City Hall, which will be demolished.