Tom and Holly Wood envisioned creating a community gathering place in The Dalles, Oregon where people could enjoy local foods, beverages and music from local artists while connecting with each other in a comfortable atmosphere. They sought a loan from MCEDD to start-up the Rivertap Restaurant and Pub in 2009 and fulfill their vision.
Since that time, Rivertap has become a focal point of activity for the Historic Downtown The Dalles East Gateway, an area that has been struggling with urban renewal for over two decades. Tom Woods stated that “Rivertap really created momentum in the community to use the historic downtown the way it was designed. A business designed to fill this need came true with the help of MCEDD.” This MCEDD loan also helped with the construction of the 4,391 square foot commercial building located at 703 E. 2nd Street in The Dalles where the Rivertap Restaurant and Pub is located.
Rivertap Restaurant and Pub is open Sunday through Thursday from 11 am to 10 pm, plus Friday and Saturday from 11 am to Midnight for American grill fare, regional beers and live music at this warm, upbeat sports pub. You can find out more information by calling 541-296-7870 and at their website at www.rivertap.com.
The MCEDD Loan Program is available to entrepreneurs, start up businesses and existing businesses doing business in the five county (Sherman, Hood River, Wasco, Klickitat and Skamania) Mid-Columbia area. This loan program is part of MCEDD’s efforts to strengthen and support the region’s economy. Contact the MCEDD Loan Fund Manager at 541-296-2266 or loanmanager@mcedd.org for more information on MCEDD’s Loan Program.