The Economic Development Administration (EDA) is awarding a $7.4 million grant to Public Utility District No. 1 of Skamania County to upgrade an electrical power substation to support the energy needs of commercial and industrial customers. The EDA grant, to be matched with more than $1.8 million in local investment, is expected to save 175 jobs and spur nearly $2.5 million in private investment. MCEDD assisted the PUD in working with EDA staff and developing their application. Read the full press release here.
The project is a regional priority in the Columbia Gorge Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy compiled by MCEDD. Every five years the region develops the comprehensive economic development strategy as a guide to understanding the regional economy and crafting goals, strategies and actions to create jobs, raise income levels, diversify the economy, and improve the quality of life.