Port Invested in Thurston County’s Small Cities 

0 Shares

Submitted by Port of Olympia

2016 marked the seventh year projects in Thurston County’s small, incorporated cities received a boost from the Port of Olympia. In April of 2016, the Commission approved funding matches for economic development projects in Bucoda, Rainier, Tenino and Yelm, at $10,000 each.

The intent of the Port’s Small Cities Program is to assist with projects that will contribute to local economic development. The program requires an equal cash match from the city. The Port awards the funds after the city has completed the project and submitted the required information.

Among the projects that will receive a boost fromthe Port is  Tenino’s new park entrance which is now under construction.  Photo courtesy: Port of Olympia
Among the projects that will receive a boost fromthe Port is Tenino’s new park entrance which is now under construction. Photo courtesy: Port of Olympia

Small cities are defined as incorporated cities within Thurston County with a population of 10,000 or less.

The Board of Directors of the Port Economic Development Corporation reviewed Finance Director Jeff Smith’s analysis of the cities’ applications, qualified the eligibility of the projects, and recommended that the Commission approve the funding awards.

Here is how the cities used their 2016 Small Cities Program funds:

  • Bucoda continued the renovation of the historic Oddfellows Building into a community center that serves both residents and visitors. Included will be the purchase and installation of acoustical sound suppressing panels.
  • Rainier continued to install wider sidewalks, bulb-outs and landscaping along Binghampton Street (State Route 507) to build downtown character and enhance the setting for local and visiting shoppers.
  • Tenino highlighted the entrance to the City park (photo above) from the Tenino Downtown Historic Business District and conversely highlight the entrance to the Business District to park visitors and County trail users.
  • Yelm conducted pavement rating and conditions of its streets, neighborhood collectors and arterials.

The 2017 Small Cities application deadline is April 1.

Print Friendly, PDF & Email
0 Shares