PUD announces grant awards

THE DALLES — Northern Wasco County People’s Utility District (NWCPUD) has awarded Economic Development Program grants to four organizations whose projects promote economic growth and community vitality within the PUD’s service territory.

“We’re proud to support projects that reflect the energy and creativity of our community,” said Roger Kline, NWCPUD general manager and CEO. “From historic preservation to local food production to public art and gathering spaces, this year’s recipients are investing in what makes The Dalles and Wasco County a great place to live and do business.”

Muirhead Canning Co. — $18,520

Muirhead has long brought customers into Wasco County to pick up orders of locally grown, hand-processed fruit. Their “Freeze Drying in Wasco County” project expands that tradition into a new product line, creating new jobs at the Mill Creek Road facility.

St. Peter’s Landmark Preservation, Inc. — $7,500

St. Peter’s Landmark Preservation received funding for the Old St. Peter’s North Side Beautification project, which will replace a deteriorated curb and add a new sidewalk along the north side of one of The Dalles’ most iconic buildings. The work addresses long-standing trip and slip hazards for the thousands of visitors St. Peter’s welcomes each year, while enhancing the streetscape.

The Dalles Lions Club Charitable Trust — $10,000

The Lions Club received funding toward a water feature for the new Federal Street Plaza, a major public gathering space in the heart of downtown The Dalles. The plaza is part of a larger $3.4 million community investment and is expected to attract residents and visitors alike to the city center.

Various Artists, LLC — $2,500

Various Artists LLC received an award toward The Golden Thread, a mural project in the alleyways of downtown The Dalles. Building on the city’s reputation as a destination for public art, this project will add new visual artwork to the downtown corridor.

NWCPUD’s Economic Development Program provides monetary grants to projects located within the PUD’s service territory that promote economic growth and community wellbeing. For more information, visit nwascopud.org or follow NWCPUD on Facebook.