North Bend, Snoqualmie Receive $2 Million from the Economic Development Administration
Funding for Water and Streetscape Infrastructure and Improvements Creates 700 Area Jobs
Washington,
Sep 21, 2007 -
Washington, D.C. – Congressman Dave Reichert (WA-08) announced today that the Cities of Snoqualmie and North Bend will receive $2 million to build infrastructure for water and streetscapes, and other additional improvements. These grants come via the Economic Development Administration (EDA) within the Department of Commerce (DOC), who estimates that 700 jobs will be created as a result of these grants.
“It is always exciting for cities in my district to receive the federal funds they need,” said Reichert, “These grant awards in particular are a wonderful example of the partnerships in the Eighth District between federal, county, and city governments working together to maximize the investment of tax dollars. One of the goals of my office is to provide whatever help or information our local governments need to help build those relationships and win these grants.”
Snoqualmie’s funds will create 300 jobs, through the construction to redevelop historic downtown Snoqualmie as part of an overarching effort to offset a decline in the region’s forest and wood-product industries. These improvements will serve as a catalyst for attracting private investment to redevelop underutilized and vacant sites in the downtown area. The DOC estimates that $15 million in private investment in the area could be leveraged through these improvements.
Mayor Matt Larson, discussed his excitement about the award.
“We are thrilled and very grateful to have received this grant,” said Larson, “When combined with local matching dollars, Snoqualmie will now be able to move forward with a $3.2 million dollar downtown redevelopment project. This project will greatly compliment the pending construction of our new City Hall and a proposed Northwest Railway Museum facility which is in the final stages of planning. Collectively, these efforts will create a great deal of positive momentum and measurable results for our downtown revitalization efforts in the coming year. I sincerely thank Congressman Reichert and King County and City staff members Martin Dicker and Nancy Tucker for all their help and assistance in acquiring this much needed grant.”
The investment for North Bend will support construction to end the development moratorium caused by a water shortage in North Bend. It will allow for the expansion of existing businesses and the attraction of new businesses to the area. DOC estimates 400 jobs created, and that $15 million in private investment in the area could be leveraged there also.
The EDA’s mission is to lead the federal economic development agenda by promoting innovation and competitiveness, preparing American regions for growth and success in the worldwide economy. The EDA’s Partnership Planning programs help support organizations (Economic Development Districts) with their long-term planning efforts and their outreach to the economic development community on EDA’s programs and policies.
