The Columbia-Pacific Economic Development District recently announced it has received a $200,000 grant from the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) to assist communities in Clatsop, Columbia and Tillamook counties continue their economic recovery from the 2007 and 2008 storm events. Funding will target activities that better prepare or "storm-proof" the region against future storm events, such as Light Detection and Ranging (LIDAR) geological mapping to identify areas of historical flooding and erosion, and implementation of broad band technology to under-served areas.
"This generous grant from the Economic Development Administration (EDA) will provide much needed match funds to expand valuable LIDAR mapping in NW Oregon." This is just another example of how EDA has stepped up to the plate to help our rural Oregon," stated Mark Labhart, President of Col-Pac and Tillamook County Commissioner.
Columbia-Pacific Economic Development District includes Clatsop, Columbia, Tillamook and western Washington counties. Information about Col-Pac, its meetings, and its deliberations can be found at NWOregon.org.