Support for Mercedes Benz's infrastructure was obtained by The West Alabama Regional Commision in partnership with many other entities. As an economic development district, WARC obtained $17,000,000 for infrastructure improvements. The Mercedez Benz plant provides 4,000 jobs.

The term "economic development" includes planning, preparing applications, and implementing projects and programs to promote tourism, foster industrial development, increase commercial vitality, and enhance all related services and facilities which influence the economic growth and vitality of the region or state.

The term "community development" includes planning, preparing applications for and implementing projects and programs to improve living conditions, rehabilitate residences, eradicate slums and blight, develop new housing opportunities, and provide the necessary basic services and facilities to create attractive communities throughout the region and state. The twelve (12) regional councils secure Community Development Block Grants worth millions annually to fund local projects addressing these issues.

Most regional councils work with local governments on Economic Development Administration Grants, Community Development Block Grants, U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Housing Programs; the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Rural Development and similar programs designed to stimulate economic growth and improve quality of life. These programs have made a major impact on the economy of numerous municipalities and counties throughout the state. Today, housing opportunities have been expanded and utilities in many Alabama communities have been expanded and/or updated to meet the needs of the local people and to provide the services and facilities required to attract new development and promote business expansions.

Several regional councils have initiated Revolving Loan Funds (RLF) that are designed to assist new and/or expanding businesses. The RLF is focused on the difference in an entrepreneur's financing and what is needed to make the deal work. Gap financing through an RLF assists in making a deal reality and thereby creating new employment opportunities.