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The office will be closed to the public in observance of the holiday.

Office Closed - Independence Day

The Port will hold its regular Commission meeting. The public is encouraged to attend.

Regular Commission Meeting

Joint County-Port Commission Meeting

This meeting is rescheduled to August 31, 2022

RESCHEDULED- Strategic Planning Meeting

The Port will hold a strategic planning meeting. The public is encouraged to attend.

Strategic Planning Meeting

Office Closed - Labor Day

The Port will host the Pioneer Ports (Ports of Clarkston, Lewiston, Whitman County) Meeting.  The Public is encouraged to attend.

Pioneer Ports

The Port will hold its regular Commission meeting and a  strategic planning Commission meeting. The public is encouraged to attend

Regular Commission Meeting and Strategic Planning Meeting

Office Closed - Memorial Day

Office Closed - Thanksgiving

Office Closed - Christmas

COLFAX — The seventh annual Colfax Fly-In and Pancake Breakfast will take place 8 a.m. to noon Saturday, September 24, at the Port of Business Air Center, 707 Flight Line Drive, in Colfax.&nbsp;The free, family-friendly event features a myriad of aircraft displays – from experimental to antique, a civil air patrol flight simulation and classic car show. In addition, the Colfax Rotary Club will serve a pancake, sausage and scrambled egg breakfast for $9 per person.Since its inception, the event has seen about 240 airplanes and helicopters and an estimated 1,450 visitors, according to Fly-In Coordinator Barney Buckley. After the event was canceled in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, about 160 people and 40 aircraft turned out for last year’s Fly-In.&nbsp;The event is organized by the Experimental Aircraft Association Chapter 328 of Lewiston, Idaho and sponsored by the Port of Whitman County. As the owner-operator of Port of Whitman Business Air Center, the Port supports opportunities to educate the community about aviation and its value to the region’s multimodal transportation system. During the Fly-In, Port will have an informational display on planned improvements to the Port of Whitman Business Air Center.For more event information, please contact Buckley at 509-288-0766 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:sundanceav@gmail.com">sundanceav@gmail.com</a> or visit the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/colfaxflyin/">Colfax Fly-In Facebook page</a>.###About the Port of Whitman CountyThe Port of Whitman County is dedicated to improving the quality of life for all citizens of Whitman County through industrial real estate development, preservation of multi-modal transportation, facilitation of economic development and provision of on-water recreational opportunities.&nbsp;

EAA Chapter 328 hosts seventh annual Colfax Fly-In sponsored by Port of Whitman 

Colfax Fly-In Lands at Port of Whitman Business Air Center Sept. 24

Colfax (June 9, 2022) — The public is invited to attend the 2022 Snake River Family Festival on Saturday, June 18, at Boyer Park &amp; Marina, 1753 Granite Road in Colfax. The free event will take place from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and features a free barbecue lunch (while supplies last), Ferdinand’s ice cream, exhibits, children’s activities and live music from Eric E.The annual festival, sponsored by the Port of Whitman County, celebrates the lifeblood of the Palouse: The Snake River. Attendees can meet with area experts and learn more about hydropower, navigation on the Columbia and Snake Rivers, safe on-water recreation and the salmon recovery work made possible by the four lower Snake River dams. Current exhibitors include the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, Whitman County Sheriff’s Office, Tidewater Transportation and Terminals, Shaver Transportation Company, Almota Elevator Company, McGregor Company, Port of Clarkston and others.“FIN, the Migrating Salmon,” a 25-foot-long summer chum sculpture from the North Olympic Salmon Coalition, will be on display, as well as a variety of interactive, river-related educational activities. Almota Elevator Company will supply bushels of soft white wheat to fill a “wheat box” – the Whitman County spin on the traditional sandbox.&nbsp;An antique rope maker will be on hand to teach children how to tie nautical ropes. By visiting these and other exhibits, attendees can complete a Snake River Family Festival passport to win prizes, including two tickets for a ½-day Nez Perce Crossing Jetboat Tour from Snake River Adventures.The 2022 Snake River Family Festival will also celebrate Boyer Park &amp; Marina’s 50th anniversary. Historic photos of the park and Whitman County student essays answering the prompt, “What do you love about Boyer Park &amp; Marina?” will be on display. The essay contest winner, second-grade student Alice Oar of Pullman Christian School, will read her essay aloud. Festival-goers can also enjoy the no-cost recreational amenities available at Boyer Park &amp; Marina during the event, including a sandy swimming beach, play structure and 3.5-mile paved biking and walking path along the river. Additionally, one of Boyer Park’s riverfront cabins will be open for tours during the festival. For a fee, pedal boats and adult and children’s bicycles can be rented at the park office, and Snake River souvenirs are available for purchase at the gift shop.2022 marks the fifth year of the Snake River Family Festival after the 2020 festival was cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic and 2021 festival was modified to allow for social distancing. The Port of Whitman County founded the event to celebrate the ecological, economic and recreational benefits of the river system to the Palouse:&nbsp; &nbsp;<ul><li>The 465-mile river highway provides the most ecologically sound mode of transportation for the crops and products that are shipped from the Palouse to the Pacific Ocean. In 2018, 3.8 million tons of cargo moved through the Snake River channel. It would have taken 38,966 rail cars or 149,870 semi-trucks to move those goods without barges. &nbsp;</li><li>Eliminating the clean power and efficient transportation provided by the Lower Snake River dams would add to climate change by increasing cumulative carbon emissions equivalent to building a coal-fired power plant like the one in Boardman, Oregon, every five or six years. &nbsp;</li><li>In addition to fighting climate change, the river system supports world-class investments in fish passage facilities. Juvenile fish survival rates past each of the eight federal dams on the system are between 95% and 98%. Fish populations are stronger than they have been since 1938. &nbsp;</li><li>The river system supports thousands of jobs across the region. According to Northwest RiverPartners, hydropower creates 100,000 jobs in the Northwest. According to Pacific Northwest Waterways Association, trade and transportation along the Lower Columbia River creates more than 40,000 jobs. &nbsp;</li><li>Because of the lower Snake River dams, the Palouse enjoys unrivaled recreational opportunity. Beautiful on-water facilities, such as Boyer Park and Marina, were made possible by reservoirs filling behind the dams and creating lakes.</li></ul>For more information, please visit the Snake River Family Festival’s <a href="https://www.portwhitman.com/snake-river-family-festival">website</a> and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/snakeriverfamilyfestival">Facebook page</a>.More about Eric E.Eric E. has performed in 49 of the United States and 19 countries, sharing the stage with acts such as Jay Leno, Styx, Little River Band, Air Supply, Dan Seals, Bobby McFerrin, Eric Bibb, Phil Keaggy, Larry Norman, Randy Stonehill, Glenn Kaiser, Bryan Duncan and dozens more. Blending and adapting originals, pop, rock, blues, jazz and country to each audience's whims, Eric creates a unique experience that is unforgettable. In 37 years and thousands of performances, he has never played the same playlist twice. &nbsp;### &nbsp;The Port of Whitman County is dedicated to improving the quality of life for all citizens of Whitman County through industrial real estate development, preservation of multi-modal transportation, facilitation of economic development and provision of on-water recreational opportunities.

Free family festival set for Saturday, June 18, at Boyer Park & Marina

Port of Whitman County hosts annual Snake River Family Festival

CLARKSTON, WA&nbsp;— Today, Whitman County and the Port of Whitman County cut the ribbon on their joint project to repair and rehabilitate the original road at the Port of Wilma. &nbsp; In 2020, the Washington State Community Economic Revitalization Board awarded Whitman County a $750,000 loan and $250,000 grant to improve Wilma Drive, the local access road that serves 17 Port of Wilma tenants. Original to the Port’s construction in the late 1970s, the road was approaching the end of its useful life. &nbsp; In August 2021, the Port of Whitman County accepted Knife River Construction’s bid to complete the road repairs. The work was completed earlier this month. Improvements include reconstruction of some road elements, individual site access improvements, safety and drainage improvements and signage. &nbsp;###&nbsp; About the Port of Whitman County The Port of Whitman County is dedicated to improving the quality of life for all citizens of Whitman County through industrial real estate development, preservation of multi-modal transportation, facilitation of economic development and provision of on-water recreational opportunities.

Paving concluded this month on Wilma Drive, the local access road that serves 17 Port of Wilma tenants 

Port, County Cut Ribbon on Port of Wilma Road Project

PULLMAN — The Port of Whitman County recently awarded the Whitman County Historical Society a $50,000 grant to help preserve Pullman’s historic train depot.Built in 1917 by the Northern Pacific Railway, the Pullman Depot operated as a passenger and freight depot for 71 years until Northern Pacific sold the building in 1988. The Historical Society purchased the building for $300,000 in 2018 with the intent of sustaining one of the region’s most iconic sites.The Port’s grant will be expended over two years as the Historical Society works to preserve the structural integrity of the more than 100-year-old Northern Pacific Depot building’s exterior in the first phase of a five-step restoration project. Supporting the Heritage Center aligns with the Port’s mission of preserving multimodal transportation – and its history – in Whitman County."The financial support provided by the Port of Whitman County to the Pullman Depot Heritage Center recognizes the historical importance of water and rail transportation to Whitman County's agricultural development,” said Debbie Sherman, fundraising chair of the Heritage Center. “Prior to the arrival of railroads to transport grain, our rivers then as now, supplied the means to deliver goods to market. This partnership celebrates the role transportation modes played in our county's growth.”The Historical Society envisions the former Pullman depot once again serving as a focal point for Whitman County, a place where the community can gather to celebrate its local heritage, both past and present. Plans for the building’s interior include permanent and changeable exhibits, a meeting space, children’s exploration area, gift shop, restrooms and leased space. Planned exterior updates include restoring the passenger car and caboose, reestablishing the brick platform, building a children’s play space and improving traffic flow.For more information about the Pullman Depot Heritage Center or to donate, please visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.pullmandepot.org">www.pullmandepot.org</a>.&nbsp;###About the Port of Whitman CountyThe Port of Whitman County is dedicated to improving the quality of life for all citizens of Whitman County through industrial real estate development, preservation of multi-modal transportation, facilitation of economic development and provision of on-water recreational opportunities.

Funding will go toward first phase of historic train depot restoration project 

Port Awards $50,000 Grant to Pullman Depot Heritage Center 

COLFAX — The Port of Whitman County invites K-5 students enrolled in Whitman County schools to participate in its Boyer Park 50th Anniversary essay contest.&nbsp;The writing prompt is “What do you love about Boyer Park &amp; Marina?” The winner will receive a two-night getaway in one of the Boyer Park riverfront cabins and will have the opportunity to read his or her essay at the Snake River Family Festival Saturday, June 18. The second-place writer will receive a voucher for one pedal boat ride and two bike rentals, and the third-place writer will receive a $25 gift certificate to the park restaurant and store.The deadline for submissions is 4 p.m. Friday, April 29. Essays can be delivered in person or mailed to the Port’s Colfax office, 302 N Mill Street, or sent via PDF to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:sarah@portwhitman.com">sarah@portwhitman.com</a>. The winner and two finalists will be announced May 12.Kindergarten and first-grade stories must have a minimum of 50 words and a maximum of 200 words. Second and third-grade stories must have a minimum of 100 words and a maximum of 350 words. Fourth and fifth-grade stories must have a minimum of 200 words and a maximum of 500 words. Illustrations are encouraged. Writers should include their name, grade, school and a parent or guardian's contact information on their submission.Located on the historic Snake River 20 miles from Colfax, Boyer Park offers the only public marina in Whitman County. The 140-acre park features a sandy swimming beach, playground, paved pedestrian and bike trail, riverfront restaurant and more. The Port maintains the park as a free day-use facility, but overnight accommodations are also available through the Boyer Park KOA. They include 61 RV sites, four camping cabins, three tent sites and a four-room motel.For more information about Boyer Park &amp; Marina, please visit <a href="http://www.portwhitman.com/port-properties/boyer-park-and-marina">www.portwhitman.com/port-properties/boyer-park-and-marina</a> or <a href="https://koa.com/campgrounds/boyer-park/">koa.com/campgrounds/boyer-park</a>.###About the Port of Whitman CountyThe Port of Whitman County is dedicated to improving the quality of life for all citizens of Whitman County through industrial real estate development, preservation of multi-modal transportation, facilitation of economic development and provision of on-water recreational opportunities.&nbsp;

The winner will receive a two-night getaway to Boyer Park & Marina

Port Opens K-5 Writing Contest in Honor of Boyer Park’s 50th Anniversary 

COLFAX — The Port of Whitman County will hold a public hearing 10:30 a.m. Thursday, March 24, to consider declaring an undeveloped lot within Pullman Industrial Park surplus to the Port’s needs.The hearing will take place in-person at the Port’s Colfax office, 302 N. Mill Street, and by Zoom at&nbsp;<a href="https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86590903284">https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86590903284</a>.Lot 9 is located within the Pullman Industrial Park Subdivision 2, southeast of the Port-owned Henley Court facility, 1300 NE Henley Court, in Pullman.Declaring the lot surplus to the Port’s needs would allow for its sale. Merry Cellars Winery has proposed purchasing Lot 9, adjacent to its current facility in Henley Court, for $345,000. The proposed use is development of a 16,000 square-foot building for wine production, aging, storage and sales.###About the Port of Whitman CountyThe Port of Whitman County is dedicated to improving the quality of life for all citizens of Whitman County through industrial real estate development, preservation of multi-modal transportation, facilitation of economic development and provision of on-water recreational opportunities.

Commissioners will consider declaring the lot surplus, allowing for its sale

Port To Hold Hearing on Proposed Surplus of Undeveloped Lot in Pullman Industrial Park

<figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td>Colfax (January 28, 2022)&nbsp;—&nbsp;The Port of Whitman County today published its <a href="https://portwhitman.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=1fa9a9d4cf8bfa76a8947e10f&amp;id=ffb1895f77&amp;e=f895ad0596">2021 Strategic Plan Report Card</a>, assessing a year of progress toward achieving the seven strategic goals in the Port’s 2021-2025 Strategic Plan. &nbsp; The report card details 24 completed projects and 26 ongoing projects, each one tied to a strategic goal. From bringing high-speed fiber internet to five cities in rural Whitman County to securing $1 million grant to replace the original docks at Boyer Park &amp; Marina, the Port made historic strides toward some of its longtime goals in 2021. &nbsp; “Collaboration is one of the key themes in our 2021 report card,” said Port Executive Director Kara Riebold. “We are grateful for all of the agencies that partnered with the Port to help contribute to the economic vitality of our region in 2021. These are truly collective accomplishments.” &nbsp; To read the Port’s 2021-2025 Strategic Plan and 2021 Strategic Plan Report Card, please visit the “<a href="https://portwhitman.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=1fa9a9d4cf8bfa76a8947e10f&amp;id=6b8e70d32d&amp;e=f895ad0596">Port Planning</a>” page under the “Our Port” tab at <a href="https://portwhitman.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=1fa9a9d4cf8bfa76a8947e10f&amp;id=4e544ea083&amp;e=f895ad0596">www.portwhitman.com</a>. &nbsp;###&nbsp; About the Port of Whitman County The Port of Whitman County is dedicated to improving the quality of life for all citizens of Whitman County through industrial real estate development, preservation of multi-modal transportation, facilitation of economic development and provision of on-water recreational opportunities.</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>

Report card assesses Port's progress toward achieving strategic goals

Port Publishes 2021 Strategic Plan Report Card

Colfax (January 20, 2022) — The Port of Whitman County has received a $1,062,000 grant from the Washington State Broadband Office to construct a last-mile fiber network in Steptoe and Diamond.The project will bring Gig-speed broadband access to approximately 143 homes and businesses. It will also connect the Steptoe School District, Whitman County Fire District #11, Steptoe Grange Hall and Steptoe Post Office.Washington State Broadband Office reported speed tests show internet users in these rural communities currently receive less than 10 megabits per second (Mbps) download speeds. By contrast, 25 Mbps is the minimum standard for broadband according to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC).As the committed internet service provider and project partner, St. John Telephone Company will facilitate an open-access model to serve Steptoe and Diamond, utilizing portions of its existing infrastructure.&nbsp;“St. John Telephone is thrilled to be working in collaboration with the Port of Whitman County to extend our infrastructure and provide much-needed broadband to these rural communities in an open-access model,” said Russell Foreyt, Manager of Colfax Cable.Construction is set to begin on or before June 2022 and conclude by December 2023.The estimated total cost of the project is $1,329,500. St. John Telephone Company has committed to providing a $267,500 grant match.&nbsp;“Without this partnership and sharing of infrastructure, funding and expertise, this project would not be possible,” said Port Executive Director Kara Riebold. “The Port is grateful for St. John Telephone’s leadership in exploring a new model to serve rural Whitman County.”&nbsp;###About the Port of Whitman CountyThe Port of Whitman County is dedicated to improving the quality of life for all citizens of Whitman County through industrial real estate development, preservation of multi-modal transportation, facilitation of economic development and provision of on-water recreational opportunities.&nbsp;

Construction set to begin on or before June 2022

Port Receives $1M Grant for Steptoe and Diamond Broadband Project

Tekoa, WA (December 10, 2021) — On Thursday, December 9, the Port of Whitman County and its partners cut the ribbon on a multi-year project to bring gig-speed broadband to five communities on the Palouse and beyond.The project brings urban-area internet speeds to more than 150 businesses and 1,386 homes in Rosalia, Tekoa, Oakesdale, Garfield and Palouse. In addition, the project extends fiber 41 miles to transmitter sites for improved wireless broadband in the areas of Almota, Oakesdale, Tekoa, Farmington, Grinnell and Lamont. The final piece of the project will conclude this month when the fiber-to-the-home network in Oakesdale goes live. The launch is scheduled for Monday, December 20.The ribbon-cutting drew local elected officials, internet service providers, community members and representatives from the Community Economic Revitalization Board (CERB) – several of whom traveled from Olympia – to Tekoa (pop: 731) Thursday morning.&nbsp;Port Commissioner Kristine Meyer explained the economic and social impacts of the project completion for rural Whitman County.“Folks will have the kind of service that’s comparable to the largest urban centers in our state,” Meyer said. “It’s no longer going to be different to live in Farmington than it is to live in Seattle, except the important quality of life difference. It’s not going to be a difference of service and your connectivity. Those kinds of differences will be erased by this project.”The Port’s project was funded by a $1 million loan and $1 million CERB grant. The Port provided a project match of $2 million, which included a $1 million commitment from Whitman County of .09 funds.CERB Vice Chair Michael Echanove witnessed the project’s impact firsthand telecommuting from his home in Palouse, as well through his official capacity on the board, he said. He thanked the Port for its leadership in broadband deployment – not only in Whitman County, but across the state.“Your port over here has been integral in assisting other ports and communities around the state for success,” Echanove said. “I’m telling you, people don’t know how blessed we are to have them behind all this.”Others spoke to the speed, capacity and reliability upgrades allowed by fiber internet. Prior to the Port’s effort, the incumbent provider offered service over a copper system at speeds averaging .8 – 1.5Mbps, depending on demand.Fiber internet changed the way Farmington resident Andrew Nelson operates his farms, Nelson Farms and Silver Creek Farms, and runs his at-home software consulting business, Nelson Professional Consulting.Before the Port’s fiber extensions connected his home, Nelson sent SD cards in the mail or drove to a neighboring town to send large files, he said. He had to turn down agricultural innovation products that would “really push the envelope,” simply because his farm lacked sufficient bandwidth, Nelson said.“Once we got fiber on the farm, it kind of amplified everything that we were trying to do to make Whitman County the spot for ag innovation,” he said.Now, Nelson’s farm employs about 16 agricultural products from around the world, he said.&nbsp;“This morning, I was able to send 15 Gigabits of imagery data over to a company in Sweden, and also be on a Zoom call with them while doing it,” Nelson said. “Stuff like that makes it possible for anyone to do anything out in the country. I hope we keep progressing it to the rest of the county, because it really makes it possible for us to have the economy that drives forward, instead of one that languishes.“I’m very happy the Port allowed this to happen, and that we were able to finally get it done. It meant a lot to me, and with the pandemic, it meant even more.”&nbsp;###&nbsp;About the Port of Whitman CountyThe Port of Whitman County is dedicated to improving the quality of life for all citizens of Whitman County through industrial real estate development, preservation of multi-modal transportation, facilitation of economic development and provision of on-water recreational opportunities.&nbsp;

Gig-speed broadband access brings economic opportunities to rural Whitman County

Port and Partners Cut Ribbon on Rural Whitman County Broadband Project

COLFAX&nbsp;—&nbsp;The Washington Public Ports Association recently honored the Port of Whitman County with its 2021 President’s Port of the Year award. &nbsp; The award recognizes a public port district member of the association for generating favorable public attention for its activities and positively representing the industry. Membership in the association currently numbers 75 ports in Washington State. &nbsp; The Port of Whitman County was chosen for its statewide leadership in constructing open-access, dark-fiber-optic internet networks. &nbsp; “The Port of Whitman is truly a leader in building the state’s broadband infrastructure for the future,” said Jean Ryckman, former WPPA president and current Port of Pasco District 2 Commissioner. Ryckman presented the accolade during WPPA’s annual meeting in Bellevue Friday, December 3. &nbsp; The Port is currently working to enable gig-speed broadband in five Whitman County communities, Rosalia, Garfield, Oakesdale, Palouse and Tekoa, and extend fiber an additional 41 miles to rural areas. The project, <a href="https://www.portwhitman.com/press-releases/media-advisory-port-of-whitman-county-gig-service-broadband-ribbon-cutting-event">scheduled for completion this month</a>, connects more than 150 businesses and 1,386 homes to broadband infrastructure. &nbsp; Recently, the Port also received a <a href="https://www.portwhitman.com/press-releases/cerb-awards-funds-to-port-for-pine-city-and-malden-broadband-project">$1.7 million grant</a> from the Community Economic Revitalization Board (CERB) to design and construct a fiber-to-the-premises (FTTX) network around Pine City and Malden. Fires in the fall of 2020 nearly destroyed the towns, ravaging more than 15,000 acres and 80% of homes. As the community continues to rebuild, infrastructure—including broadband—will chart the path for their recovery. &nbsp; The impacts of the Port’s broadband work extend beyond Whitman County and Eastern Washington. The Port leads <a href="https://petrichorbroadband.com/">Petrichor Broadband, LLC</a>, a municipal corporation formed by six Washington ports in 2020. The other founding members include Port of Kalama, Port of Ridgefield, Port of Skagit County, Port of Bellingham and Port of Pasco. Petrichor Broadband provides consulting and network management services to public agencies seeking to expand broadband infrastructure to previously underserved areas of Washington State. &nbsp; “Petrichor achieved a profit margin from its inception by filling a critical role assisting other ports, tribes, counties, cities, PUDs, and industrial development zones in expanding broadband access to their communities,” Ryckman said. “These clients really span the state, ranging all the way from Island County to the Kalispel Tribe in Pend Oreille County.” &nbsp; More information about Petrichor Broadband’s services and a map of clients served in Washington State can be found at <a href="https://petrichorbroadband.com/">petrichorbroadband.com</a>. &nbsp; Executive Director Joe Poire explained the Port’s history in broadband began in 1998 when the Port, led by the late Commissioner John Love, started lobbying for new state broadband legislation. In 2000, Substitute Senate Bill 6675 was signed into law. The landmark bill authorized ports and public utility districts to build broadband infrastructure and offer wholesale telecommunications services. Enacted, it became RCW 53.08.370. &nbsp; “We were successful in 2000, led by Commissioner Love, and here we are 22 years later,” Poire said. “This particular enterprise started out 22 years ago when we couldn’t even get dial-up internet, and the pandemic brings the whole story back around. It’s really been a ride. Getting recognized like this and having everyone partner with us – it’s truly been an honor.” &nbsp; For more information about the Port’s broadband work, please visit <a href="http://www.portwhitman.com/broadband">www.portwhitman.com/broadband</a> or <a href="http://www.portwhitman.com/fiber-faqs">www.portwhitman.com/fiber-faqs</a>. &nbsp;###&nbsp; About the Port of Whitman County The Port of Whitman County is dedicated to improving the quality of life for all citizens of Whitman County through industrial real estate development, preservation of multi-modal transportation, facilitation of economic development and provision of on-water recreational opportunities.

The Port was chosen for its statewide leadership constructing open-access, dark-fiber-optic internet networks

Port of Whitman County Wins Washington Port of the Year Award

<figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td>The Port of Whitman County is pleased to host a ribbon cutting event for its gig service broadband project in rural Whitman County. This month, the Port will conclude its project to enable gig-speed broadband for more than 150 businesses and 1,386 homes in five communities on the Palouse and extend fiber an additional 41 miles to rural areas. As a result, the farming towns of Rosalia, Tekoa, Oakesdale, Garfield and Palouse have access to services comparable to the largest urban areas in Washington State. In addition, the project extended fiber to transmitter sites for improved wireless broadband in the areas of Almota, Oakesdale, Tekoa, Farmington, Grinnell and Lamont. The project was funded through a $1 million loan and $1 million grant from the State of Washington’s Community Economic Revitalization Board (CERB) and $2 million in match funding from the Port, which included a $1 million commitment from Whitman County of .09 funds. The event highlights the project and serves as the official ribbon cutting event. What:&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Port of Whitman County Broadband Project Ribbon Cutting Who:&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Local elected officials from the Port of Whitman County and Whitman County, the Community Economic Revitalization Board, fiber network users, internet &nbsp;service providers and members of the public When: &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 10:30 a.m. PST, Thursday, December 9, 2021 Where:&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Tekoa Event Center &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 135 N. Crosby Street &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Tekoa, WA &nbsp;###&nbsp; About the Port of Whitman County The Port of Whitman County is dedicated to improving the quality of life for all citizens of Whitman County through industrial real estate development, preservation of multi-modal transportation, facilitation of economic development and provision of on-water recreational opportunities.</td></tr><tr><td>&nbsp;</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>

The Port of Whitman County is pleased to host a ribbon cutting event for its gig service broadband project in rural Whitman County 10 a.m. December 9, 2021, at the Tekoa Event Center.

Media Advisory: Port of Whitman County Gig Service Broadband Ribbon Cutting Event

Tekoa, WA (November 22, 2021)&nbsp;–&nbsp;The Port of Whitman County today announced the high-speed fiber-optic network built in Tekoa is now available for hundreds of residences and businesses across the city.The network enables “Gig speed” or Gigabit fiber internet and phone services for the first time in the city, the same services that recently went live in Garfield on November 1, as part of a five-city partnership between the Port and Ziply Fiber to build fiber internet in Whitman County. The final network build in the county – in Oakesdale – is currently under construction and scheduled to launch next month.&nbsp;“We are happy to announce that Tekoa’s high-speed internet network is ready for service. This network launch will continue our mission of connecting our cities with dependable broadband internet and phone services,” said&nbsp;Kara&nbsp;Riebold, Chief Operating Officer at the Port of Whitman&nbsp;County. “We have seen how advantageous the open-access model has been within the Port’s cities these past few months, and now, residents across Tekoa will have the opportunity to sign up for these service options, as well.”Residents and businesses will benefit greatly from significant speed, capacity,&nbsp;and reliability upgrades that fiber&nbsp;internet&nbsp;provides when&nbsp;making video calls,&nbsp;uploading,&nbsp;and downloading content&nbsp;and&nbsp;streaming entertainment.&nbsp;“Everyone deserves the best possible internet. That is the philosophy Ziply Fiber has operated under from day one. It is fundamental for individuals and businesses to thrive in our increasingly connected world,” said Harold Zeitz, CEO of Ziply Fiber. “Our partnership with the Port of Whitman County has allowed and encouraged us to continue bringing this vision to life. This week, as we mark our fourth service launch with the Port of Whitman County, we are pleased to provide the residents and businesses in Tekoa with access to gig-speed internet service.”Construction of the new fiber network was supported by the&nbsp;Washington&nbsp;Community&nbsp;Economic Revitalization Board&nbsp;(CERB), which&nbsp;was formed in 1982 to respond to local economic development in Washington communities. CERB’s Rural Broadband Program provides low-interest loans and grants to local governments and federally-recognized Indian tribes, financing the cost to build infrastructure to provide high-speed, open-access broadband service, to rural underserved communities, for the purpose of community economic development.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;###&nbsp;&nbsp;About Port of Whitman County&nbsp; The Port of Whitman County is dedicated to improving the quality of life for all citizens of Whitman County through industrial real estate development, preservation of multi-modal transportation, facilitation of economic development and provision of on-water recreational opportunities.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Launch marks fourth of five-city public/private partnership; Oakesdale network launch planned for December

Tekoa's Gig-Speed Fiber-Optic Internet Network Goes Live Today

Garfield, WA (November 1, 2021)&nbsp;–&nbsp;The Port of Whitman County today announced that high-speed fiber-optic internet service is now available to Garfield residents and businesses. As a result of the network build, the citizens of Garfield will be able to choose from among at least three internet service providers (ISPs).The network enables “Gig-speed” or Gigabit fiber internet, streaming TV and fiber-based phone services for the first time in the city, the same services that went live in Palouse on October 15 and Rosalia on July 30, as part of a five-city partnership between the Port and Ziply Fiber to build fiber internet in Whitman County. The remainder of the builds in the county – which include Oakesdale and Tekoa – are currently under construction.&nbsp;“We are thrilled to announce that Garfield’s ultra-fast fiber-optic internet network is ready for service. This new network will elevate our&nbsp;connectivity, providing residents and businesses with dependable internet and phone services, on par with any city in the state,” said&nbsp;Kara&nbsp;Riebold, Chief Operating Officer at the Port of Whitman&nbsp;County. “We have witnessed the huge impact this open-access model has made within our cities over the last few months, and now the citizens of Garfield have the opportunity to take advantage of the options available to them.”Residents and businesses will benefit greatly from the significant speed, capacity,&nbsp;and reliability upgrade that fiber&nbsp;internet&nbsp;provides when&nbsp;making video calls,&nbsp;uploading,&nbsp;and downloading content&nbsp;and&nbsp;streaming entertainment.&nbsp;“Ziply Fiber’s primary belief is simple: Easy, reliable internet access is fundamental for&nbsp;all individuals,&nbsp;families, and businesses, regardless of their zip code,” said Harold Zeitz, CEO of Ziply Fiber. “Our partnership with the Port of Whitman County paved the way for us to continue bringing this vision to reality. This week, we are proud to show the residents and businesses in Garfield what access to ‘Gig-speed’ means.”Construction of the new fiber network was supported by the&nbsp;Washington&nbsp;Community&nbsp;Economic Revitalization Board&nbsp;(CERB), which&nbsp;was formed in 1982 to respond to local economic development in Washington communities. CERB’s Rural Broadband Program provides low-interest loans and grants to local governments and federally-recognized Indian tribes, financing the cost to build infrastructure to provide high-speed, open-access broadband service, to rural underserved communities, for the purpose of community economic development.&nbsp;&nbsp;###&nbsp;About Port of Whitman County&nbsp; The Port of Whitman County is dedicated to improving the quality of life for all citizens of Whitman County through industrial real estate development, preservation of multi-modal transportation, facilitation of economic development and provision of on-water recreational opportunities.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Garfield becomes third city to launch fiber network in Whitman County as part of public/private partnership; Oakesdale and Tekoa coming soon

Garfield's New Fiber-Optic Internet Network Launches Today

Palouse, WA (October 14, 2021)&nbsp;– The Port of Whitman County today announced that high-speed fiber-optic internet service will be available to the first of Palouse’s residents and businesses beginning Friday, October 15, with hundreds more following in the next few weeks. The Port and Ziply Fiber partnered to construct the open-access fiber-optic network, which will result in six internet service providers (ISPs) servicing Palouse.The network enables “Gig-speed” or Gigabit fiber internet, streaming TV and fiber-based phone services for the first time in the city, the same services that went live in Rosalia on July 30, as part of a five-city, public-private partnership between the Port and Ziply Fiber to build fiber internet in Whitman County.&nbsp;The remainder of the builds in the county – which include Garfield, Oakesdale and Tekoa – are currently under construction.“We are proud of this new, state-of-the-art, open-access network here in Palouse and how it will put the city’s internet connectivity on par with major cities across the county and state,” said Kara&nbsp;Riebold, Chief Operating Officer at the Port of Whitman County. “The Port has long championed the open-access model to help close the digital divide and promote competitive services for rural residents, and the people and businesses of Palouse are now able to make that choice thanks to the completion of this new network.”Residents and businesses will benefit greatly from the significant speed, capacity, and reliability upgrade that fiber internet provides when making video calls, uploading, and downloading content and streaming entertainment.&nbsp;“The partnership with the Port really allowed us to deploy fiber both further and faster than we could have done on our own and at a cost savings to both of our organizations,” said Harold Zeitz, CEO of Ziply Fiber. “Our core belief has always been that simple, easy access to the internet is fundamentally important for individuals, families and businesses, and not just for those who choose to live in large urban areas. Being headquartered in Washington ourselves, it makes all of us at Ziply Fiber very proud to be able to officially call Palouse the state’s newest Gig-speed city.”Construction of the new fiber network was supported by the Washington Community Economic Revitalization Board (CERB), which was formed in&nbsp;1982 to respond to local economic development in Washington communities. CERB’s Rural Broadband Program provides low-interest loans and grants to local governments and federally-recognized Indian tribes, financing the cost to build infrastructure to provide high-speed, open-access broadband service, to rural underserved communities, for the purpose of community economic development.&nbsp;###&nbsp;About Port of Whitman County The Port of Whitman County is dedicated to improving the quality of life for all citizens of Whitman County through industrial real estate development, preservation of multi-modal transportation, facilitation of economic development and provision of on-water recreational opportunities.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Open-access network will promote competitive services for people and businesses of Palouse

Fiber-Optic Internet Network Goes Live in Palouse Starting October 15

Colfax, WA (August 6, 2021) — The Port of Whitman County was alerted of a capsized houseboat in the Boyer Park marina early Wednesday morning. No one was hurt and no other boats were damaged in the incident. It is believed that&nbsp;the boat began to sink sometime overnight on August 3 or in the early hours of August 4.&nbsp; The boathouse was floated and removed Thursday evening.The Boyer Park manager, Mike Olmstead, was alerted to the boat sinking at around 4:30 a.m. on Wednesday.&nbsp;Mr. Olmstead and park staff deployed oil containment booms shortly after they became aware of the situation to contain any potential oil or fuel spills. &nbsp;Notifications were made to the National Response Center, Washington Emergency Management Division, the United States Army Corps of Engineers and the Washington Department of Ecology. In addition, the boat’s owner and the Port were all made aware of the situation as soon as possible after booms were deployed.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Although this was an unfortunate incident we are certainly glad no one was hurt,” said Joe Poire, Executive Director of the Port of Whitman County. “Mike, the park and marina manager, did an exemplary job handling the situation and alerting all the necessary people of what had happened. We are very grateful for Mike and his staff’s efforts.”&nbsp;A professional marine company was mobilized to assist in the houseboat’s removal. The removal process began Thursday morning. The process was delayed due to thunder and lightning but was completed by Thursday evening. The cause of the sinking has yet to be determined.Ecology spill responder Sean Tompson said, “quick response by the Marina helped reduce impacts from leaking fuel, and a coordinated response with the environmental contractor Graymar and Associated Underwater Services were crucial to helping right and remove the boat yesterday.”The marina dock that the houseboat was originally tied up to was damaged in the incident. The extent of the damage is under evaluation.The Port of Whitman operates Boyer Park and Marina, a 56-acre full-service marina and campground on the Snake River downriver from Lower Granite Dam. &nbsp;Boyer Park features long-term or transient boat moorage, shaded campsites for RV's with full and partial hookups, camp cabins, a small on-site motel and tent sites, meeting a wide spectrum of camping and moorage needs. The Park has an onsite convenience store, restaurant, laundry room, restrooms, shower facilities and a good-sized swimming beach. Boat gas is available from a floating fuel dock.###About the Port of Whitman CountyThe Port of Whitman County is dedicated to improving the quality of life for all citizens of Whitman County through industrial real estate development, preservation of multi-modal transportation, facilitation of economic development and provision of on-water recreational opportunities

The Port of Whitman responded early Wednesday to news of a partially sunken houseboat in their marina on the Snake River

Houseboat Found Capsized in Boyer Park Marina

Colfax (July 30, 2021) — The Port of Whitman County today announced that high-speed fiber-optic Internet is now available in Rosalia, Washington. The Port partnered with Ziply™ Fiber to construct an open-access, fiber-optic network allowing residents n Rosalia to choose from several Internet Service Providers (ISPs) for internet service to homes and businesses. This infrastructure brings competition to the market as well as high-speed Internet.Rosalia is the first of five rural towns in Whitman County to where fiber infrastructure is being installed as part of the Port’s efforts to help close the digital divide that exists in rural Whitman County. The other four towns include Garfield, Oakesdale, Palouse and Tekoa, which are under construction now and scheduled for completion by the end of October. Recently the Port received funding to build the same infrastructure in and around the Pine City Malden area.&nbsp; The design for this work is underway and materials have been ordered.“Residents and businesses in our Whitman County communities will benefit greatly from not only the significant upgrade that fiber provides when making video calls, uploading and downloading content, streaming entertainment and more but also the competition and ability to select from multiple providers,” said Kara Riebold, Chief Operating Officer at the Port of Whitman. “Closing the digital divide has never been more important and we’re excited for residents to select from several great providers who will offer services to our cities and towns.”The Port of Whitman County has long championed the open-access model to promote competitive services for rural residents. The CERB (Community Economic Revitalization Board) of Washington supports the Rural Broadband Program awarding grants and opening the door for partnership opportunities with telecommunications providers."Partnering with the Port of Whitman County and expanding our fiber footprint helps us continue to push the fastest speed possible to the communities we serve. All internet service providers are seeing our customers’ increased dependence on fast and reliable connections. Partnerships like this with the Port of Whitman are helping us meet that need," said Marcus Munn, owner of WIFiBER.&nbsp;“We are more than excited to continue our successful partnership with the Port of Whitman and the CERB Program,” said Chip Damato, Executive Vice President of Inland Cellular/ Emerge Technologies. “It is the perfect blend of public/private cooperation to bring a proven, successful open access model. We are planning on taking the next step forward after activating 240 doors in Pomeroy Washington, under the same model, in a 6 month period. Most of these homes and businesses are the beneficiaries of gig speed internet service at affordable prices. The open-access model allows us to bring internet services to lower-income and public services organizations, that may not have been able to accommodate high-speed services. This model has proven to be outstanding and we are more than thrilled with the opportunity to serve and be a productive partner in the Rosalia and future communities to come.”“We are very pleased to partner with the Port of Whitman on bringing high-speed Internet to the residents in Whitman County,” said Joe Savoy,&nbsp;Area Sales Manager for First Step Internet. “High-speed Internet has proven to be a vital necessity and this project will bridge the digital gap for many of the communities in Whitman County.&nbsp;We look forward to seeing how these communities prosper many years from now.”&nbsp;“The future of communities in Washington state is tied directly to their access to technology. We at Rodeo Internet/Rodeo Networks are extremely pleased to be part of the effort and to work with the Port of Whitman in their high-speed fiber project bringing advanced technologies to the towns and cities in the region” said Kelly Stovall-Raney, Chief Operating Officer of Rodeo Internet. “We look forward to serving the people of the area and the partnership with the Port”Marcus Munn, Owner of WIFiBER,&nbsp;<a href="mailto:marcus@wifiber.net">marcus@wifiber.net</a>, (509) 720-8313Chip Damato,&nbsp;Executive Vice President of Inland Cellular/ Emerge Technologies, <a href="mailto:damato@inlandcell.com">damato@inlandcell.com</a>, (208) 791-8775Joe Savoy,&nbsp;Area Sales Manager for First Step Internet, <a href="mailto:jsavoy@fsr.com">jsavoy@fsr.com</a>, (208) 882-8869 ext 435Kelly STovall-Raney, Chief Operating Officer, <a href="mailto:kelly@rodeotv.net">kelly@rodeotv.net</a>The investment of the CERB funds by the Department of Commerce will support the extension of the Port of Whitman County’s open-access broadband fiber-optic network.&nbsp; Constituents from the rural communities in Whitman County frequently approach the Port to ask for help in meeting their telecommunications needs and that the remote nature of these communities makes it even more important for their citizens to have access to reliable, high-speed Internet services to support their needs for information, education, conducting business, healthcare, and safety. The Port of Whitman County maintains a strong focus on ensuring residents and businesses have access to high-quality and affordable broadband services.&nbsp;Additional information on the Port of Whitman County’s telecommunications network can be found at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.portwhitman.com/broadband">https://www.portwhitman.com/broadband</a>.&nbsp;For more information on CERB and the Rural Broadband Program visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.commerce.wa.gov/building-infrastructure/community-economic-revitalization-board/rural-broadband/">https://www.commerce.wa.gov/building-infrastructure/community-economic-revitalization-board/rural-broadband/</a>.###About the Port of Whitman CountyThe Port of Whitman County is dedicated to improving the quality of life for all citizens of Whitman County through industrial real estate development, preservation of multi-modal transportation, facilitation of economic development and provision of on-water recreational opportunities.&nbsp;RCWs 53.08.005, 53.08.370, and 53.08.380 allow Ports and PUDs to build telecommunications infrastructure and offer it wholesale to service providers.&nbsp; Under these provisions, the Port has worked to develop a telecommunication plan and infrastructure to facilitate enhanced telecommunications services countywide.&nbsp; The Port works with telecommunications providers to build infrastructure that helps local providers enhance telecommunication services offered to rural communities.

Partnership between the public and private sector helped speed deployment, provide an opportunity for economic growth in the region

The Port of Whitman County connects Rosalia to High-Speed Fiber-Optic Internet

Colfax (July 15, 2021) — The Port of Whitman County was awarded $1,734,921 from the Washington State Department of Commerce’s Community Economic Revitalization Board (CERB) to design and construct a fiber-to-the-premises (FTTX) network around Pine City and Malden in Whitman County.&nbsp;The project timeline states that the design is expected to be completed by the end of 2021 and will overlap with obtaining permitting approvals.&nbsp; The expected start of construction is in early 2022. “Construction is expected to be completed by the second quarter of 2022,” says Joe Poire, executive director for the Port.&nbsp;The estimated total cost of the project is $2,168,651.&nbsp; The Port has committed a $433,730 local match for the CERB Rural Broadband Program grant. The additional $1,734,921 in projected project costs is the awarded grant from CERB.&nbsp;After fires in the fall of 2020 devastated the area, the community continues to work to rebuild their town. As they rebuild, infrastructure including broadband will shape the communities. Broadband access will mean e-learning, work-from-home, business, telemedicine and other digital opportunities can once again become viable options for residents who want to enjoy the rural aspects and quality of life that the communities provide.The investment of the CERB funds by the Department of Commerce will support the extension of the Port of Whitman County’s open-access broadband fiber-optic network.&nbsp; Constituents from the rural communities in Whitman County frequently approach the Port to ask for help in meeting their telecommunications needs and that the remote nature of these communities makes it even more important for their citizens to have access to reliable, high-speed Internet services to support their needs for information, education, conducting business, healthcare, and safety. The Port of Whitman County maintains a strong focus on ensuring residents and businesses have access to high-quality and affordable broadband services.&nbsp;"The addition of the CERB funds will allow the Port to continue to address this infrastructure problem," says Poire.Additional information on the Port of Whitman County’s telecommunications network can be found at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.portwhitman.com/broadband">https://www.portwhitman.com/broadband</a>.For more information on CERB and the Rural Broadband Program visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.commerce.wa.gov/building-infrastructure/community-economic-revitalization-board/rural-broadband/">https://www.commerce.wa.gov/building-infrastructure/community-economic-revitalization-board/rural-broadband/</a>.###About the Port of Whitman CountyThe Port of Whitman County is dedicated to improving the quality of life for all citizens of Whitman County through industrial real estate development, preservation of multi-modal transportation, facilitation of economic development and provision of on-water recreational opportunities.&nbsp;RCWs 53.08.005, 53.08.370, and 53.08.380 allow Ports and PUDs to build telecommunications infrastructure and offer it wholesale to service providers.&nbsp; Under these provisions, the Port has worked to develop a telecommunication plan and infrastructure to facilitate enhanced telecommunications services countywide.&nbsp; The Port works with telecommunications providers to build infrastructure that helps local providers enhance telecommunication services offered to rural communities.We invite you to explore our website and learn more about our port and the wonderful Palouse region we call home; a great place to live and a better place to work.

CERB funds awarded for Fiber-to-the-Premises and Rural Fiber Extensions in Whitman County

CERB Awards Funds to Port for Pine City and Malden Broadband Project

Colfax (June 28, 2021) — The Port of Whitman County has received a $1 million construction grant from the Washington Recreation &amp; Conservation Funding Board to replace three of the original 1975 docks at Boyer Park &amp; Marina.Construction of new aluminum and fiberglass docks is expected to take place in fall 2022. The docks to be replaced include a fuel dock, finger dock and straight dock. They will serve transient boaters, or boaters temporarily mooring their vessels at the marina without a moorage agreement, typically for a day, night or weekend visit. The Boyer Park &amp; Marina concessionaires estimate the marina will see at least 330 transient boaters throughout 2021.The project also includes the addition of a navigation aid light for enhanced nighttime boater safety and the placement of an accessible vault toilet in the boat launch parking area. The restroom will remain open 24 hours a day through all seasons to serve the boating public.The Port will contribute $1.1 million in matching funds, bringing the total project cost to $2.1 million.Improvement of the Boyer Park &amp; Marina docks has been listed in the Port’s planning documents for two decades. Port staff launched the project in 2016 by applying for an RCO planning grant for the docks’ design, which the Port successfully received in 2017.“This construction grant is the culmination of four years of hard work by multiple Port staff and consultants,” said Properties and Development Manager Debbie Snell. “I want to express my sincere appreciation to the RCO Board for their support in making this long-awaited project possible.”Concurrently with the grant-funded dock replacement, the Port plans to rehabilitate the four remaining docks. An eighth dock that must be removed due to its poor condition will not be replaced. The Port-funded project aims to extend the remaining docks’ useful life by 10 to 15 years. These docks will serve both long-term marina tenants and overflow transient boaters. The project cost has been estimated at $763,600.Nestled on the Snake River, one mile downriver from Lower Granite Lock and Dam, Boyer Park &amp; Marina serves as the only public marina in Whitman County. The next closest public marina is nearly 60 miles away in Clarkston. The Port operates the 140-acre park under a long-term lease with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and maintains it as a free day-use facility for the citizens of Whitman County.“Boyer Park &amp; Marina is one of the most beautiful sights on the Palouse, and we live in an incredibly scenic region of the world,” Executive Director Joe Poire said. “Over the years, the Port Commission has committed to improving this public asset by updating and expanding the park’s infrastructure. We are pleased that our docks will soon match the modern amenities of the upland portion of our park, where we’ve installed new cabins, RV sites and a playground structure in the past five years.”For updates on the Boyer Park &amp; Marina dock replacement and rehabilitation projects, please visit the Port’s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.portwhitman.com/press-releases">Media Center</a> and subscribe to the Port’s e-newsletter.&nbsp;

Grant Award Will Replace 46-Year-Old Docks at Boyer Park & Marina

Port Receives $1 Million Grant to Replace Original Marina Docks

Pullman (May 18, 2021) — The Port of Whitman County has been awarded $200,000 to study reuse opportunities for Washington State University’s decommissioned College Avenue Steam Plant.The Washington State Department of Ecology grant will fund a feasibility study and environmental review of the historic site on the southwest edge of campus.Built in 1927, the steam plant once provided power, light and heat for the entire university. It closed in 2003 when the Grimes Way Steam Plant became operational, ending the era of using coal to fire university boilers. The building still houses two functioning gas-fired boilers and a small electrical substation on its ends. However, WSU and the Port envision several possible community and university uses for the remaining portions of the nearly 36,000-square-foot facility.“For more than 75 years, the steam plant served the campus by providing power and heat. Since its closure, WSU has worked to reimagine how we revitalize this once vital part of campus. WSU is excited to partner with the Port of Whitman County to create space that will allow for research, collaboration, engagement with local business, and a destination for events that will blend the use of both the WSU campus and the greater Pullman community,” said Christopher Keane, vice president for research at WSU.&nbsp;The Port’s grant application describes a ground floor featuring a destination restaurant with food and beverages developed by the School of Food Science, as well as rooms for meetings and presentations. The two mezzanine floors would function as a commercialization center with collaborative office and lab space to allow WSU researchers and graduate students to develop their intellectual property. Outside, an events center would occupy the formerly vacant parking lot, serving as the gateway between Pullman’s downtown and the WSU campus.&nbsp;“We are thrilled to partner with the university to bring new life to this facility,” said Port Executive Director Joe Poire. “These projects necessarily take many years to complete, but once the vision is fully realized, we see the steam plant as an exciting conduit between WSU and the Port, as well as an economic engine for our communities.”Funds from the grant will be utilized to conduct a feasibility study on these possible reuse opportunities while maintaining the plant’s current energy operations. The first step will include a focused environmental investigation to assess the site’s environmental risks and identify options for mitigation.The state grant was part of a competitive selection process to award $2 million for projects that support the cleanup and redevelopment of a brownfield site during the 2019-2021 biennium. The Integrated Planning Grant program has been successfully employed to help local governments transform brownfield properties across Washington State since its pilot project first launched in 2007. For every $1 the state has spent to clean up brownfield sites, it has generated $12 in local and state tax revenues, $14 in payroll value and $64 in business revenue, according to the Department of Ecology.###About the Port of Whitman CountyThe Port of Whitman County is dedicated to improving the quality of life for all citizens of Whitman County through industrial real estate development, preservation of multi-modal transportation, facilitation of economic development and provision of on-water recreational opportunities.

The Port has been awarded $200,000 to study reuse opportunities for the College Avenue Steam Plant

Port Receives Grant to Explore Adaptive Reuse of WSU Steam Plant

Colfax (May 14, 2021) — Registration is now closed for the 2021 Snake River Family Festival after a record 500 people signed up to attend the Port of Whitman County’s annual celebration of the Columbia-Snake River System.Those who have already registered will be able to claim their free ice cream and festival goody bag at Boyer Park &amp; Marina, 1753 Granite Rd, in Colfax through May 31. Festivalgoers simply need to present a digital or printed copy of their ticket at the Boyer Park store. The store is open 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday to Thursday and 8:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday.The Port of Whitman County would like to thank this year’s attendees for their participation.“We are grateful for everyone who came out to Boyer Park &amp; Marina this spring to celebrate the river system that is so integral to our economy, energy and quality of life on the Palouse,” said Executive Director Joe Poire. “We look forward to the next festival when we can all gather together again and add live music, free food and vendors back to our event festivities.”###About the Port of Whitman CountyThe Port of Whitman County is dedicated to improving the quality of life for all citizens of Whitman County through industrial real estate development, preservation of multi-modal transportation, facilitation of economic development and provision of on-water recreational opportunities.

500 people signed up to celebrate the Columbia-Snake River System

Registration Closes for 2021 Snake River Family Festival

Colfax (May 1, 2021) — Online registration is now open for the Port of Whitman County’s 2021 Snake River Family Festival&nbsp;<a href="https://www.jotform.com/form/210254696678164">here</a>. The link is also available on the festival’s Facebook page and website.The first 500 people to register will receive a ticket by email for free ice cream and a festival goody bag at Boyer Park &amp; Marina, 1753 Granite Rd, in Colfax. Festivalgoers may redeem their ticket by presenting a digital or printed copy at the Boyer Park store any time during store hours May 1-31. The store is open 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday to Thursday and 8:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday.&nbsp;Families may register up to five people from their household. This way, each member of the family will receive their own ice cream and festival goody bag.The festival goody bags contain games and activities designed for attendees to enjoy a day on the river. Giveaways include a frisbee, sunglasses, bubbles, Snake River posters, a salmon life cycle board game and a crossword puzzle that leads its players along the 3.5-mile Snake River Trail.For more information, please visit the Snake River Family Festival <a href="/snake-river-family-festival">website</a> or&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/snakeriverfamilyfestival">Facebook page</a>. For registration assistance, please call the Port of Whitman County at 509-397-3791.###About the Port of Whitman CountyThe Port of Whitman County is dedicated to improving the quality of life for all citizens of Whitman County through industrial real estate development, preservation of multi-modal transportation, facilitation of economic development and provision of on-water recreational opportunities.

2021 festival will take place at Boyer Park & Marina throughout May

Registration Now Open for Monthlong Snake River Family Festival

Colfax (April 26, 2021) — The first-ever monthlong Snake River Family Festival will kick off May 1, offering free ice cream and festival goody bags for the first 500 registrants.Registration will open May 1 on the Snake River Family Festival’s Facebook page. Families may register up to five people from their household. The annual festival celebrates the Columbia Snake River System at Boyer Park &amp; Marina, 1753 Granite Rd, in Colfax.Registrants will receive their free general admission ticket by email and may redeem it any time during Boyer Park’s store hours. Throughout May, the store is open 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday to Thursday and 8:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday.&nbsp;The festival goody bags contain games and activities designed for attendees to enjoy a day on the river. Giveaways include a frisbee, sunglasses, bubbles, Snake River posters, a salmon life cycle board game and a crossword puzzle that leads its players along the 3.5-mile Snake River Trail.2021 marks the fourth year of the festival. The Port of Whitman County hosts the annual event to celebrate the ecological, economic and recreational benefits of the river system to the Palouse:<ul><li>The 465-mile river highway provides the most ecologically sound mode of transportation for the crops and products that are shipped from the Palouse to the Pacific Ocean. In 2018, 3.8 million tons of cargo moved through the Snake River channel on the equivalent of 279 four-barge tows. It would have taken 38,966 rail cars or 149,870 semi-trucks to move those goods without barges. &nbsp;</li><li>Eliminating the clean power and efficient transportation provided by the Lower Snake River dams would add to climate change by increasing cumulative carbon emissions equivalent to building a coal-fired power plant like the one in Boardman, Oregon, every five or six years. &nbsp;</li><li>In addition to fighting climate change, the river system supports world-class investments in fish passage facilities. Juvenile fish survival rates past each of the eight federal dams on the system are between 95% and 98%. Fish populations are stronger than they have been since 1938. &nbsp;</li><li>The river system supports thousands of jobs across the region. According to Northwest RiverPartners, hydropower creates 100,000 jobs in the Northwest. According to Pacific Northwest Waterways Association, trade and transportation along the Lower Columbia River creates more than 40,000 jobs. &nbsp;</li><li>Because of the lower Snake River dams, the Palouse enjoys unrivaled recreational opportunity. Beautiful on-water facilities, such as Boyer Park and Marina, were made possible by reservoirs filling behind the dams and creating lakes.</li></ul>For more event information and to register starting May 1, please visit the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/snakeriverfamilyfestival">Snake River Family Festival</a> on Facebook.&nbsp;###About the Port of Whitman CountyThe Port of Whitman County is dedicated to improving the quality of life for all citizens of Whitman County through industrial real estate development, preservation of multi-modal transportation, facilitation of economic development and provision of on-water recreational opportunities.

Monthlong Snake River Family Festival Kicks Off May 1

The Port of Whitman County has rescheduled its strategic planning meeting, originally planned for 10 a.m. Monday, April 26, to 12:30 p.m. Thursday, May 6. It will take place following the Port Commission’s regular meeting on May 6. The meeting will be held by a combination of remote and in-person meeting elements. Participants may join in-person at the Port’s office, 302 N. Mill Street, Colfax, WA, or by Zoom at <a href="https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86590903284">https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86590903284</a>. The call-in number is 1-253-215-8782. The meeting ID is 865 9090 3284.In addition, the Whitman County Commissioners have moved the start time of their joint meeting with the Port of Whitman County Commissioners from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Monday, May 3. The meeting will be held remotely via Zoom at <a href="https://zoom.us/j/250921172">https://zoom.us/j/250921172</a>.&nbsp;

The Port's upcoming strategic planning and joint Port/County meetings have been rescheduled.

Notice of Meeting Rescheduling 

Colfax (March 2, 2021) — Pre-COVID-19, the annual Snake River Family Festival would bring 500 people to Boyer Park &amp; Marina on a single Saturday in May. This year, the festival will continue for its fourth year, but it will look unlike any festival of the past. &nbsp;The 2021 festival will take place throughout the 31 days of May at Boyer Park &amp; Marina, offering fun on the river while keeping attendees socially distanced. The Port will give away free ice cream and festival goody bags to the first 500 registrants. From frisbees and bubbles to river-related puzzles and games, the goody bags will contain activities designed to “create your own festival,” said Port Executive Director Joe Poire.“It was really important to us that people could still experience the festival on the river, but do so safely,” Poire said. “This year’s festival will allow families to pick and choose what they want their festival to look like. If you have small children, bubble wands and some sticky ice cream might be your main attraction. Or if your kids are school age, a board game about the salmon life cycle and a crossword puzzle that gets you walking or biking the Snake River Trail could be a fun way to learn about our river system. And, of course, everyone loves ice cream – whether you’re six or 60.”&nbsp;Boyer Park &amp; Marina also offers attractions of its own, including an eight-dock marina, sandy swimming beach, 3.5-mile paved pedestrian trail, pirate-themed playground and overnight accommodations.Registration will open May 1 on the Snake River Family Festival’s Facebook page.Registrants will simply need to present their free admission festival tickets at the Boyer Park Store any time in May during store hours to receive their free ice cream and goody bag.For more information, please visit the festival’s&nbsp;<a href="/snake-river-family-festival">website</a> and follow the Snake River Family Festival on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/snakeriverfamilyfestival">Facebook</a>.&nbsp;###About the Port of Whitman CountyThe Port of Whitman County is dedicated to improving the quality of life for all citizens of Whitman County through industrial real estate development, preservation of multi-modal transportation, facilitation of economic development and provision of on-water recreational opportunities.

Socially distanced festival will take place throughout month of May

Port Announces Extended 2021 Snake River Family Festival

Colfax (February 26, 2021) — The Port of Whitman County has received a $1 million construction grant from the Washington Recreation &amp; Conservation Office to replace three of the original 1975 docks at Boyer Park &amp; Marina.Construction of new aluminum and fiberglass docks is expected to take place in fall 2022. The docks to be replaced include a fuel dock, finger dock and straight dock. They will serve transient boaters, or boaters temporarily mooring their vessels at the marina without a moorage agreement, typically for a day, night or weekend visit. The Boyer Park &amp; Marina concessionaires estimate the marina will see at least 330 transient boaters throughout 2021.The project also includes the addition of a navigation aid light for enhanced nighttime boater safety and the placement of an accessible vault toilet in the boat launch parking area. The restroom will remain open 24 hours a day through all seasons to serve the boating public.The Port will contribute $1.1 million in matching funds, bringing the total project cost to $2.1 million.Improvement of the Boyer Park &amp; Marina docks has been listed in the Port’s planning documents for two decades. Port staff launched the project in 2016 by applying for an RCO planning grant for the docks’ design, which the Port successfully received in 2017.“This construction grant is the culmination of four years of hard work by multiple Port staff and consultants,” said Properties and Development Manager Debbie Snell. “I want to express my sincere appreciation to the RCO Board for their support in making this long-awaited project possible.”Concurrently with the grant-funded dock replacement, the Port plans to rehabilitate the four remaining docks. An eighth dock that must be removed due to its poor condition will not be replaced. The Port-funded project aims to extend the remaining docks’ useful life by 10 to 15 years. These docks will serve both long-term marina tenants and overflow transient boaters. The project cost has been estimated at $763,600.Nestled on the Snake River, one mile downriver from Lower Granite Lock and Dam, Boyer Park &amp; Marina serves as the only public marina in Whitman County. The next closest public marina is nearly 60 miles away in Clarkston. The Port operates the 140-acre park under a long-term lease with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and maintains it as a free day-use facility for the citizens of Whitman County.“Boyer Park &amp; Marina is one of the most beautiful sights on the Palouse, and we live in an incredibly scenic region of the world,” Executive Director Joe Poire said. “Over the years, the Port Commission has committed to improving this public asset by updating and expanding the park’s infrastructure. We are pleased that our docks will soon match the modern amenities of the upland portion of our park, where we’ve installed new cabins, RV sites and a playground structure in the past five years.”For updates on the Boyer Park &amp; Marina dock replacement and rehabilitation projects, please visit the Port’s&nbsp;<a href="/press-releases">Media Center</a> and subscribe to the Port’s e-newsletter.&nbsp;###About the Port of Whitman CountyThe Port of Whitman County is dedicated to improving the quality of life for all citizens of Whitman County through industrial real estate development, preservation of multi-modal transportation, facilitation of economic development and provision of on-water recreational opportunities.

Grant award will replace 46-year-old docks at Boyer Park & Marina

Portland, Ore. (February 4, 2021) — The Pacific Northwest Waterways Association has reviewed a plan proposed by Rep. Mike Simpson (R, ID-2) to establish a $32 billion “Columbia Basin Fund” for regional economic and environmental transition. The highlight of Rep. Simpson’s plan is the breaching of the four Lower Snake River dams.&nbsp;PNWA appreciates that Rep. Simpson has highlighted two issues in this plan on which almost everyone in the Pacific Northwest can agree: commitment of real dollars for salmon recovery, and increased utilization of renewable, carbon-free energy to combat climate change.However, funding for salmon recovery and new energy technologies should not be tied to an extreme measure like breaching the Snake River dams, which provide over 95% effective fish passage and are a critical part of the region’s energy portfolio. These dams also make possible fuel-efficient, low-carbon, safe and reliable barge transportation.&nbsp;“This plan would remove highly functional run-of-river dams with world-class fish passage that provide fundamental benefits like clean energy and efficient commerce to our region, and put the region on track for higher carbon emissions and an increase in climate change. It is not a responsible use of taxpayer dollars, and ultimately is a disservice to our region’s fish,” said PNWA Executive Director Kristin Meira.&nbsp;“Rep. Simpson’s proposal to replace barging on the Snake River with additional rail and truck traffic&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001UXNCZzdsfOupqn55fUKYJpUSBGfGQIQlUKTULqi_v6PavZm4VGdEyqyvDUJEzsQpIxxF0DcqFOek6ptIAcxmIuF-1acnT2QPMQM6_CfJQMeuYkJ74gzrIx7l06xbeRq0EluHh2ioQ8egS8PN-TLaLX9Ve16DOYK3sUZ3jZ9-_BKx6hIKxpDeZmFj1KGmimRjw7tIYKCn5hp1F6xD6Mr2UvIA5dJznMmKF18knnhceZU=&amp;c=RdbWv-50JI_l6lnd_P_3FcaargTZoCwxEl3EEzKVwFfG6yOVADP--Q==&amp;ch=FBPIAT9qrDAHVQ3JT79TcgcO0rc3OOyhD-dlbVfdn4KlB5H4SXgZ5g==">would lead to significant carbon emission increases</a> in our region at a time when our leaders have pledged to move us in a greener direction. While rail and truck are important and have their place in our region, those two modes also have much higher rates of injuries and fatalities associated with them, when compared to barging. The impact to human life and safety in northern Idaho and eastern and central Washington should also be considered,” Meira said.&nbsp;The plan attempts to place a price tag on an entire region’s way of life. While $32 billion may address some economic impacts of dam removal, no amount of money can protect the culture, lifestyle, and economies of the communities that depend upon the Columbia-Snake River System’s hydropower, navigation, irrigation, flood risk management, recreation, and municipal and industrial water supply benefits.The proposal also fails to take a system-wide approach, and relies on investments and technologies that are uncertain at this time. It identifies solutions that do not adequately address the adverse impacts on human safety, carbon dioxide emissions, trade, or broader economic and community impacts, among others.This plan continues to pursue an extremely narrow focus on four projects with outstanding fish passage, despite multiple reports from the scientific community about ocean warming, ocean acidification, urban runoff and other issues that are leading to declines in fish runs throughout the West Coast, including those in undammed rivers.NOAA Fisheries started a conversation with its Columbia Basin Partnership Task Force to evaluate all Northwest runs, set goals for recovery, and highlight the multitude of actions that it will take to help our fish. Discussions are now happening about the best way to continue that good work. PNWA encourages Rep. Simpson and other parties in the Northwest to reject extreme and narrow approaches like Snake River dam breaching, and collaborate on regionwide efforts to help West Coast runs in every part of their life cycle.&nbsp;Voices from across the Pacific Northwest are weighing in on this plan and its impacts on the environment, communities, workers, and more:&nbsp;“Shaver Transportation strongly opposes Congressman Simpson’s proposal to breach the four Lower Snake River dams. This proposal would not only impact jobs and goods movement from the inland empire to our partners overseas, but would significantly increase greenhouse gas emissions by moving cargo from barge to rail and truck, all with limited known benefits to our regional salmon runs.”- Steve Shaver, President, Shaver Transportation Company&nbsp;“We're proud to grow the best quality wheat you'll find anywhere. But we can't feed the world if we can't get it to market. The existence of barging as a transportation mode helps to discipline rail and trucking rates, ensuring that the price of moving goods in the Pacific Northwest remains competitive. Without barging, Idaho wheat growers are severely disadvantaged. Multiple modes of transportation to Portland help us better serve our customers and be regarded as a reliable supplier throughout the world.”- Joseph Anderson, Chairman, Idaho Wheat Commission&nbsp;“Removing four Snake River dams flies in the face of reality for salmon, is illogical from an environmental perspective and hurts industry and communities. Only four of the 13 ESA listed salmon runs even swim past the Lower Snake River dams and they do so with over 95% transit survival. Removing them does not solve the salmon issue. Eliminating the dams does remove navigation, the most environmentally friendly, safest and most reliable mode of transporting wheat to market. It also removes clean renewable hydropower and increases carbon. We oppose such moves in the wrong direction for salmon, the environment and the wheat industry.”- Mike Carstensen, Chairman, Washington Grain Commission&nbsp;“We have studied the benefits and impacts of the river system to our port and community in detail. Rep. Simpson's proposal puts politics over science and local jobs. The proposal does not even begin to address the many costs Southeast Washington and North Central Idaho will experience if we are forced to transition our entire culture and economy away from connection with the rivers. In order to understand our culture and values, Rep. Simpson should engage with community leaders from the entire region.”- Wanda Keefer, Port Manager, Port of Clarkston&nbsp;“The Port of Whitman County opposes Rep. Simpson’s narrowly focused plan to breach the lower Snake River dams. Dismantling the river system that provides clean, reliable hydropower and the most environmentally-sound means of cargo transport runs counter to our nation’s climate change priorities. We also know that real people up and down the Columbia-Snake River System risk losing more than their livelihoods. This plan doesn’t begin to offer our communities ‘certainty, security and viability.’”&nbsp;- Joe Poire, Executive Director, Port of Whitman County&nbsp;###The Pacific Northwest Waterways Association is a non-profit, non-partisan trade association of ports, businesses, public agencies and individuals who support navigation, energy, trade and economic development throughout the region. Learn more at&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001UXNCZzdsfOupqn55fUKYJpUSBGfGQIQlUKTULqi_v6PavZm4VGdEyuL2te-o4ykKKfEtzaIMl900g5ZLZ0HcGyDTx4gVg7vCRFgBlxn9-p9PTv-9aXwUOj4yVD44PoetxkVc2fYW7Ko=&amp;c=RdbWv-50JI_l6lnd_P_3FcaargTZoCwxEl3EEzKVwFfG6yOVADP--Q==&amp;ch=FBPIAT9qrDAHVQ3JT79TcgcO0rc3OOyhD-dlbVfdn4KlB5H4SXgZ5g==">www.pnwa.net.</a>

Port issues statement in conjunction with PNWA

PNWA, Port of Whitman County react to Simpson proposal to breach Lower Snake River dams

Pullman (December 29, 2020) — The Port of Whitman County will hold a public hearing 11 a.m. Thursday, January 7, regarding the potential surplus and sale of Lots 19-21 in Locust Grove Industrial Park.Due to in-person public meeting restrictions in Washington, this public hearing will take place remotely via Zoom at&nbsp;<a href="https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86590903284">https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86590903284</a>. Members of the public may join by computer or phone. The call-in number is 1-253-215-8782. The meeting ID is 865 9090 3284.Veterinary Medical Research &amp; Development (VMRD) in Pullman recently approached the Port regarding the company’s interest in purchasing 8.36 acres in Lots 19-21 of Locust Grove Industrial Park, known informally as Pullman Industrial Park-West. The undeveloped land is located at the intersection of Grand Avenue North and Pullman-Albion Road in Pullman. The proposed use is light industrial business expansion.&nbsp;The first step in the surplus/sales process involves holding a public hearing on January 7. Then, the Commissioners will vote on whether or not to declare the lots surplus to the Port’s needs and approve the sale to VMRD.Founded in 1981, VMRD develops and manufactures veterinary diagnostic test kits and related reagents for distribution in more than 77 countries. Currently, VMRD is working on innovative solutions in the fight against COVID-19, including a&nbsp;<a href="https://vmrd.com/news-and-announcements/detail/vmrd-announces-innovative-testing-approach-in-covid-fight-to-help-businesses-institutions-open-safely-icoronavirus-surveillance-process-available-for-widespread-deployment-i">new testing approach</a> to safely keep businesses open. The Pullman-based company employs over 50 researchers, lab technicians and support personnel.###About the Port of Whitman CountyThe Port of Whitman County is dedicated to improving the quality of life for all citizens of Whitman County through industrial real estate development, preservation of multi-modal transportation, facilitation of economic development and provision of on-water recreational opportunities.

Public hearing set for 11 a.m. Thursday, January 7

Port to Hold Public Hearing on Proposed Sale of Undeveloped Land in Pullman

Colfax (November 23, 2020) — The Port of Whitman County launched a redesigned website at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.portwhitman.com">www.portwhitman.com</a> today. While the domain remains the same, the website features an improved design, content and graphics to tell the story of the Port.The new&nbsp;<a href="/">home page</a> guides viewers through a virtual Port tour, allowing them to walk the sandy beaches of Boyer Park &amp; Marina or observe a plane take flight at the Port of Whitman Business Air Center. Videography also appears on each Port property page to give potential tenants a bird’s eye view of the facilities.For the first time, the Port will maintain a digital archive of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.portwhitman.com/press-releases">press releases</a> and publish a&nbsp;<a href="/blog">Port blog</a> under “Our News.” The blog will feature a variety of authors, from elected Port Commissioners to staff members working in finance, broadband, property management and more.&nbsp;In addition, the website pays homage to the Columbia-Snake River System and its many, wide-ranging benefits to the Palouse region. “Our Rivers” explores&nbsp;<a href="/river-facts">facts about the river system</a> and houses event information about the Port’s annual&nbsp;<a href="/snake-river-family-festival">Snake River Family Festival</a> at Boyer Park &amp; Marina.Other notable changes to the website include a mobile-friendly design and improved navigation.“We are thrilled to launch a modernized website,” said Executive Director Joe Poire. “The new design reflects who we are as a Port District and gives us tools – such as our new media center – to keep you well informed of our economic development activities in Whitman County.”###About the Port of Whitman CountyThe Port of Whitman County is dedicated to improving the quality of life for all citizens of Whitman County through industrial real estate development, preservation of multi-modal transportation, facilitation of economic development and provision of on-water recreational opportunities.

Website features improved design, content and graphics

Port of Whitman County Launches Modernized Website

Colfax (October 20, 2020) —&nbsp;The Port of Whitman County is seeking public comment on its draft 2021-2025 Strategic Plan and Comprehensive Scheme of Harbor Improvements.&nbsp;Every five years, the Port revises its plans to reflect new goals, objectives and planned improvements to Port properties. With an update due this year, the Port decided to transition to a new way of documenting Port plans. The content that typically makes up the Port’s Comprehensive Plan was split into two distinct plans for 2021-2025.All Port property information and planned improvements will be documented in the Comprehensive Scheme of Harbor Improvements, while the Strategic Plan will contain the set of goals and objectives adopted by the Port Commission for the next five years.“While the recognizable elements of our previous Comprehensive Plans will remain unchanged, we hope this new format improves your overall experience with our Port plans by making information easier to find,” Executive Director Joe Poire said.The draft plans are available for public review at <a href="http://www.portwhitman.com">www.portwhitman.com</a>. Written comments may be submitted by email to <a href="mailto:communications@portwhitman.com">communications@portwhitman.com</a>; by mail to Port of Whitman County, 302 N. Mill Street, Colfax, WA 99111; or by fax to 509-397-4758 through November 5. &nbsp;The Port Commission will hold a public hearing at its regular 10 a.m. Thursday, November 5, 2020 meeting to hear verbal comment. The meeting will be online at&nbsp;<a href="https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86590903284">https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86590903284</a>.In addition, the Port is launching a self-assessment tool for the first time. Every year, the Port will publish a report card to assess its progress toward accomplishing strategic goals. The first report card, however, will look back on the past five years of Port performance, as measured against the 2016-2020 Comprehensive Plan. This report is scheduled for publication in December 2020.###About the Port of Whitman CountyThe Port of Whitman County is dedicated to improving the quality of life for all citizens of Whitman County through industrial real estate development, preservation of multi-modal transportation, facilitation of economic development and provision of on-water recreational opportunities.

Public Comment Period Open Through November 5

Port of Whitman County Invites Public Input on Draft Plans

Colfax (October 2, 2020) - The Port of Whitman County Commission voted to appoint Karl Webber of Tekoa to the vacant District 1 Commissioner seat at its regular October 1 meeting.&nbsp;Webber was appointed to a term expiring on December 31, 2021, which was left vacant when longtime Commissioner John Love resigned in July. Webber, one of four candidates to apply, brings a wealth of experience in business management and consulting for small to large companies. He currently holds positions as President/Principal Consultant of KB2 Performance Management Systems and President/Founder of Statera Fly Rods.&nbsp;“I believe the Port of Whitman County is a valuable contributor to our way of life as residents,” Webber wrote in his application. “As Port Commissioner, I would work to understand the needs and concerns of the residents, the business leaders and the governing officials, and I would take this information into account when making decisions about strategy, direction and policy.”&nbsp;The Port had 90 days to fill Love’s seat. Three other candidates – Charles Petras, James Babb and Nathan Weller – were also interviewed at the October 1 meeting.&nbsp;The three-member Port of Whitman County Commission meets on the first and third Thursdays of the month. Port Commissioners serve six-year terms. While all Commissioners are elected on a countywide basis, each must live within a specific district of Whitman County. The board’s responsibilities include setting policy, approving expenditures and appointing the Executive Director.&nbsp;###&nbsp;About the Port of Whitman County&nbsp;The Port of Whitman County is dedicated to improving the quality of life for all citizens of Whitman County through industrial real estate development, preservation of multi-modal transportation, facilitation of economic development and provision of on-water recreational opportunities.

 Karl Webber Fills Vacancy Caused by John Love’s Resignation

Port of Whitman County Appoints District 1 Commissioner

Colfax (August 12, 2020) - The Port of Whitman County will hold an informational session 7 p.m. Thursday, August 13, for those interested in applying for the vacant District 1 Commissioner seat.&nbsp;Port staff will share background about the Port and the roles and responsibilities of a Port commissioner. The meeting will be held on Zoom at <a href="https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83561948135">https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83561948135</a>.&nbsp;Applications will be available on the Port’s website immediately following this session. Applications are due by close of business on Wednesday, September 16. The two remaining commissioners, Kristine Meyer of District 2 and Tom Kammerzell of District 3, will then interview applicants at the board’s October 1 meeting and select the new Commissioner.&nbsp;The person selected will need to run in the next open election in November 2021 in order to retain the seat. The winner of the election will serve out the remainder of former Commissioner John Love's term, ending in 2025.&nbsp;For questions regarding the Port Commissioner seat, please contact the Port office at 509-397-3791 or <a href="mailto:port@portwhitman.com">port@portwhitman.com</a>.&nbsp;###About the Port of Whitman County&nbsp;The Port of Whitman County is dedicated to improving the quality of life for all citizens of Whitman County through industrial real estate development, preservation of multi-modal transportation, facilitation of economic development and provision of on-water recreational opportunities.&nbsp;

August 13 info session kicks off search for District 1 Commissioner 

Port Invites Interested Commissioner Applicants to Virtual Info Session 

Colfax, Washington (August 6, 2020) - Ziply Fiber™ and the Port of Whitman County have today announced a collaboration which will bring the most advanced, purpose-built fiber internet network to new areas of Whitman County for the first time. Construction will take place in Rosalia, Tekoa, Oakesdale, Garfield and Palouse. By entering into this agreement with Ziply Fiber, the partnership allows the Port of Whitman County to save about $1.5 million towards the fiber-to-the-home (FTTH) network, which can be redirected to other areas.“At the end of this project, these rural communities will have services on par with the largest urban areas, and that’s really exciting,” said Joe Poire, Executive Director of the Port of Whitman County. “ At the same time, we’re freeing up capital to expand our county’s access to high-speed internet. This is a win-win.”Ziply Fiber, which recently acquired the Northwest operations of Frontier Communications in Washington, Oregon, Idaho and Montana, has commited to invest more than $500 million in its network and services throughout the region. The company is beginning fiber build-out and network improvement projects in markets that have never before had fiber, many of which are underserved communities such as Whitman County.“We believe you don’t have to live in a big city to get great internet, especially in this time where so many people across the region work from home and engage with their schools, community groups, friends, customers, and work teams online,” said Harold Zeitz, CEO of Ziply Fiber. We can make the former Frontier network better and that is why we are here improving service for our existing customers, and alongside the Port, enabling new customers in Whitman County to access fiber internet.”The CERB (Communiuty Economic Revitalization Board) of Washington supports the Rural Broadband Program awarding grants and opening the door for partnership opportunities with telecommunications providers such as Ziply Fiber. In turn, a key component of Ziply Fiber’s Northwest-focused strategy is providing the best possible internet services to residents of smaller towns, and stimulating economic development where people have the same needs as in larger cities, but still rely almost solely on DSL or other older technologies for internet connections. Customers will see the best speed, capacity and reliability possible when fiber is introduced.While some of these projects may take time to finish depending on complexity, scale and geography, the builds will start this year and will continue to take place over the coming year. The agreement maintains an open-access fiber optic network.The Port of Whitman County has long championed this model to promotecompetitive services for rural residents.About Ziply Fiber&nbsp;Ziply Fiber is headquartered in Kirkland, Washington, and has major offices in Everett, Washington; Beaverton, Oregon and Hayden, Idaho. Most of Ziply Fiber’s executive team, which consists of former executives from AT&amp;T, CenturyLink and Wave Broadband, either grew up in the Northwest or have spent the better part of 30 years living here. That local ownership and market familiarity is an important part of the company mindset and culture.&nbsp;About Port of Whitman County&nbsp;The Port of Whitman County is dedicated to improving the quality of life for all citizens of Whitman County through industrial real estate development, preservation of multi-modal transportation, facilitation of economic development and provision of on-water recreational opportunities.&nbsp;###

Network build will accelerate service and provide opportunity for economic growth in the region; underserved towns will be first to receive technology boost.

Ziply Fiber™ and Port Partner to Bring Fiber-to-the-Home in Whitman County

EPA has extended the deadline for public comments on the Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) for temperature on the Columbia and Lower Snake Rivers through August 20, 2020. Comments must be sent by email to <a href="mailto:ColumbiaRiverTMDL@epa.gov">ColumbiaRiverTMDL@epa.gov</a>.<a href="https://portwhitman-web.s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com/files/Port-of-Whitman-County-TMDL-Public-Comment.pdf">Download the Port of Whitman County Public Comment</a>

EPA has extended the deadline for public comments on the Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) for temperature on the Columbia and Lower Snake Rivers through August 20, 2020.

Port Commission Issues Public Comment on EPA Temperature Report

Colfax (July 16, 2020) - The Port of Whitman County is seeking a new member from District 1 to appoint to its commission.&nbsp;Qualified candidates must be registered voters residing in District 1 of Whitman County. The precincts encompassing District 1 are the same as the County Commissioners and can be found here.&nbsp;The new commissioner will replace John Love, who served on the board for 24 years.&nbsp;Port staff will hold a virtual informational session, “Port Commissioner 101,” at 7 p.m. on Thursday, August 13, to share background about the Port and the roles and responsibilities of a Port commissioner. The meeting will be held on Zoom at <a href="https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83561948135">https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83561948135</a>.&nbsp;Applications will be available on the Port’s website following the August 13 session.&nbsp;The two remaining commissioners, Kristine Meyer and Tom Kammerzell, will then interview qualified applicants and select a replacement for the vacant position. The person selected will need to run in the next open election in November 2021 in order to retain the seat. The winner of the election will serve out the remainder of Love's term, ending in 2025.&nbsp;For questions regarding the Port Commissioner position or the boundaries of District 1, please contact the Port office at 509-397-3791 or <a href="mailto:port@portwhitman.com">port@portwhitman.com.</a>###About the Port of Whitman County&nbsp;The Port of Whitman County is dedicated to improving the quality of life for all citizens of Whitman County through industrial real estate development, preservation of multi-modal transportation, facilitation of economic development and provision of on-water recreational opportunities.&nbsp;

Informational session set August 13 for all interested candidates

Port Commission Launches Search for District 1 Commissioner 

Colfax (June 18,2020) - After more than 24 years, the Port of Whitman County’s longest-serving commissioner will leave his seat next month.&nbsp;John E. Love, District 1 Commissioner, announced his resignation at the Commission’s June 18 meeting.&nbsp;“It has been one of my life’s greatest pleasures to serve on this Commission for the past 24 years,” Love wrote in a letter to the board. “Enacting policies that truly improve the lives of my fellow citizens of Whitman County has been both an honor and a privilege.&nbsp;However, I have made the difficult decision to step down from my position, due to several personal reasons.”&nbsp;Love’s last day will be Wednesday, July 15. He has five years remaining on his fifth six-year term, and the Port is now seeking a commissioner to complete the remainder.&nbsp;After the announcement, Commissioner Kristine Meyer thanked Love for his mentorship.&nbsp;“John, I know that’s hard but I just want to let you know I don’t think that I could have done this – taken this position – without your mentorship and your leadership here. My tenure has certainly been short but it’s been that much more gratifying and enjoyable for your leadership.”&nbsp;Commissioner Tom Kammerzell also expressed his regret at the announcement.&nbsp;“You are going to be terribly missed, John,” Kammerzell said. Love first took office in January 1996 after winning a three-way election to replace Robert Heglar, who served on the board for 18 years. In an interview with the Lewiston-Morning Tribune, Love said he ran for a seat on the port board for the challenge.&nbsp;"I'm very impressed with what the commissioners and the managers have accomplished since their inception," Love told the Tribune. "Being very favorably impressed, I can see there's a challenge to continue striving for accomplishments and I think there's a great opportunity for the people of Whitman County and for the Port of Whitman, and I guess the ego is that I would like to be a part of it."&nbsp;Over the course of his tenure, Love’s leadership contributed to several of the Port’s major achievements, including the development of Pullman Industrial Park and Port of Whitman Business Air Center, receipt of legal authority for ports to build telecommunications infrastructure and vast improvements to Boyer Park &amp; Marina.&nbsp;Love also represented Whitman County in the broader port and maritime industry. A former rear admiral in the United States Navy Reserve, Love’s leadership skills landed him seats on ports and waterways boards across the state. He served as secretary of the Washington Public Ports Association in 1998, vice president in 1999 and president in 2000. He also served on the board of Pacific Northwest Waterways Association, and was recently awarded the 2018 Distinguished Service Member Award from the organization.&nbsp;Ego was never present in Love’s approach to public service, Executive Director Joe Poire said. “John is a real statesman. The Port rode on his leadership at the state and federal level, as he was always asked to be on boards and committees,” Poire said. “John’s leadership provided the Port a conduit to everybody. He opened doors that this Port had not experienced before. He brought the Port to a whole new level, and all the while he did it with great humility.”&nbsp;A history of Love’s accomplishments will be presented to the Commission, including Love and his family, at its regular July 2 meeting.&nbsp;The two remaining Port Commissioners, Kammerzell and Meyer, will appoint a new commissioner from District 1 within 90 days of the resignation. The person selected will need to run in the next open election in November 2021 in order to retain the seat. The winner of the election will serve out the remainder of Love's term, ending in 2025.&nbsp;###About the Port of Whitman CountyThe Port of Whitman County is dedicated to improving the quality of life for all citizens of Whitman County through industrial real estate development, preservation of multi-modal transportation, facilitation of economic development and provision of on-water recreational opportunities.&nbsp;

Commissioners, staff to celebrate more than two decades of achievement 

Longtime Port Commissioner John Love announces resignation 

Colfax (April 8, 2020) - After careful consideration regarding the health and safety of its community, exhibitors and staff, the Port of Whitman County has made the difficult decision to cancel the annual Snake River Family Festival, scheduled for May 30.&nbsp;“We are very disappointed that we cannot host this year’s festival for our community. It has become a cherished celebration of our river, and we will miss seeing all of our wonderful exhibitors and attendees,” said Joe Poire, Executive Director. “But we do know this is the right decision based on the public health guidelines we have today.”&nbsp;Following Gov. Jay Inslee’s extended stay-at-home order through May 4, the Port decided cancelling the festival was the best way to respond to Washington’s COVID-19 outbreak.&nbsp;The Port explored postponing the festival to August, but ultimately decided that harvest and back-toschool time would preclude too many people from participating.&nbsp;“We’re expiring many ‘firsts’ right now: our first ever virtual commission meeting, and now our first festival cancellation,” Poire said. “We appreciate our community’s patience and understanding during these unprecedented times. Fortunately, these times will not last.”&nbsp;Port Commissioners and staff look forward to celebrating the Snake River once again in early summer 2021. The free, family-oriented festival draws about 500 people to Boyer Park &amp; Marina in Colfax each year to celebrate the multi-faceted Columbia-Snake River System.&nbsp;###About the Port of Whitman CountyThe Port of Whitman County is dedicated to improving the quality of life for all citizens of Whitman County through industrial real estate development, preservation of multi-modal transportation, facilitation of economic development and provision of on-water recreational opportunities.&nbsp;

In support of public health guidelines, the festival will not take place until 2021 

Port of Whitman County cancels 2020 Snake River Family Festival

Colfax (March 30, 2020) - Per a proclamation by the governor, the Port of Whitman County will hold remote-only commission meetings and public records inspections through at least April 23.&nbsp;On Tuesday, March 24, Gov. Jay Inslee signed Proclamation 20-28 suspending all in-person requirements in the state’s public records and open meetings laws. The measure is intended to reduce unnecessary person-to-person contact amid the spread of COVID-19. It lasts until midnight April 23 unless extended.&nbsp;It temporarily prohibits public agencies, such as the Port, from holding in-person meetings.&nbsp;“Waiving this requirement works to prevent the gathering of people to further curb the spread of the virus,” according to a statement from the governor’s office.&nbsp;The proclamation also suspends agencies from taking action during a meeting unless the matters are “necessary and routine” or “necessary to respond to the outbreak and current public health emergency.”&nbsp;According to RCW 42.30.030, "action" means the transaction of the official business of a public agency by a governing body including but not limited to receipt of public testimony, deliberations, discussions, considerations, reviews, evaluations and final actions.&nbsp;In response to the proclamation, the Port’s Commission meetings will be held fully by teleconference. To call in, please dial 1 (605) 313-4415 and enter the access code 623969.&nbsp;The teleconference number and access code will be posted on meeting agendas, as well as the Port’s website and Facebook page prior to each meeting.&nbsp;The commission meets next on Thursday, April 2, at 10 a.m.&nbsp;The governor’s proclamation also temporarily suspends the Public Records Act (PRA) requirements for agencies to respond to requests for public records within five business days, and to maintain business hours for public inspection and copying of records for a minimum of 30 hours per week.The Port will implement these provisions as follows:&nbsp;1. In-person inspections of records at agency offices during the time the proclamation is in effect will not be scheduled.&nbsp;2. Instead of in-person interactions, requestors should call the Port’s public records officer at 509- 397-3791 or send an email to publicrecords@portwhitman.com.&nbsp;3. While the proclamation is in effect, the Port may not be able to provide requestors an initial response within five business days; the PRA response time period is suspended pursuant to the proclamation. However, we will continue to respond promptly and to the greatest and fullest extent possible.&nbsp;Although the Port is unable to interact with members of the public in-person through April 23, staff remain available by phone and email during normal business hours, 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday to Friday. Staff contact information can be found at <a href="https://www.portwhitman.com">www.portwhitman.com</a>.&nbsp;###About the Port of Whitman County The Port of Whitman County is dedicated to improving the quality of life for all citizens of Whitman County through industrial real estate development, preservation of multi-modal transportation, facilitation of economic development and provision of on-water recreational opportunities.&nbsp;

Proclamation temporarily prohibits in-person contacts with public 

Port of Whitman County implements Governor’s Proclamation 20-28

Colfax (March 23, 2020) — To better protect the health of our community and staff, the Port of Whitman County will close its office to visitors effective immediately.&nbsp;Port staff remain available by phone and email during normal business hours, 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday to Friday. Staff contact information can be found at www.portwhitman.com. Business operations will resume to the fullest extent possible.&nbsp;“We are committed to playing our part in slowing the spread of this virus,” said Joe Poire, Executive Director. “We have been preparing for the last few weeks. Staff tested working remotely last week. Our invoices were paid early. Several commissioners and staff participated in the most recent commission meeting fully by phone.”&nbsp;The Port will publish teleconference details with each commission meeting agenda online at <a href="https://www.portwhtiman.com">www.portwhitman.com</a>. Members of the public are highly encouraged to attend by phone. The commission meets next on Thursday, April 2.&nbsp;###&nbsp;Information on COVID-19 is available from the following sources:&nbsp;<ul><li>Centers for Disease Control and Prevention</li><li>Whitman County Public Health W</li><li>Washington State Department of Health</li></ul>About the Port of Whitman County&nbsp;The Port of Whitman County is dedicated to improving the quality of life for all citizens of Whitman County through industrial real estate development, preservation of multi-modal transportation, facilitation of economic development and provision of on-water recreational opportunities.&nbsp;

Staff remain available by phone and email

Port of Whitman County office closes to visitors 

Colfax (March 2, 2020) — As national interest turns to the Columbia River System, the Port of Whitman County encourages the Palouse community to make their voices heard.&nbsp;The Army Corps of Engineers, U.S. Bureau of Reclamation and Bonneville Power Administration released a draft environmental impact statement on the operation of the Columbia River System on Friday, February 28. This started the clock on a 45-day comment period, which ends April 13.&nbsp;The release of the 5,000-page report represents a significant milestone, as the Army Corps of Engineers last conducted an environmental impact study on the river system in 2002.&nbsp;“It has been 18 years since the last time we had this opportunity,” said Joe Poire, Executive Director. “These opportunities are rare and should not be wasted. As people from all over the nation weigh in on this document with their interests, we who live at ground zero have this same opportunity.”&nbsp;The Port believes the preferred alternative identified in the Columbia River System Operations Draft Environmental Impact Statement (CRSO DEIS) rightly avoids the extreme measure of dam breaching.&nbsp;The loss of barging would be detrimental to Whitman County and our reputation as the nation’s leading producer of wheat.&nbsp;More than 1,100 farms risk bankruptcy if the federal government does not increase farm subsidies. With wheat prices already down near the break-even point, annual direct payments to farmers would need a boost of $38.8 million to maintain current income levels.&nbsp;In addition, the loss of irrigation of nearly 48,000 acres would result in a $500 million social welfare loss. The consequences of dam breaching – far from solely impacting agricultural communities such as Whitman County – would be felt across the greater Northwest region.&nbsp;The draft EIS concludes that power blackouts could become a reality. Without the 14 federal dams on the Columbia and Snake Rivers, the threat of region-wide blackouts would double – a crisis for which we are not prepared.&nbsp;“I can’t remember having a blackout in my lifetime living here,” Poire said.&nbsp;Breaching the lower Snake River dams could also cost up to an additional $1 billion annually to replace the energy alone and raise customer rates by 25 percent or more.&nbsp;In addition, replacing the dams with natural gas generation would add 3.3 million metric tons of CO2 to the region every year.&nbsp;“River navigation produces the most energy-efficient, low-carbon emission transportation system in the nation,” Poire said. “It is human nature for people to take for granted the low-cost, clean energy that hydropower produces, while demanding there be no impact.”&nbsp;By identifying the preferred alternative, federal agencies acknowledge the world-class investments in fish passage facilities completed over the years that now allow over 95 percent of fish to pass each of the federal dams safely. Breaching the dams would pose very negative consequences to our community while yielding only marginal improvements to salmon recovery.&nbsp;The Port remains hopeful this report will serve as a positive communication tool to discuss the myriad benefits of the Columbia-Snake River System.&nbsp;“I hope when people from other parts of the country read this report it helps them understand why people in the region feel so strongly about retaining this river system,” Poire said.&nbsp;The first and nearest opportunity for Palouse residents to provide public comment will take place 4-8 p.m. Tuesday, March 17, at the Lewiston Red Lion Hotel, 621 21st St. Verbal comment up to two minutes in length may be given publicly or privately. During the meeting, computers will be available for online comment submittal, or written comments may be deposited in a collection box.&nbsp;Between now and April 13, written comments may be submitted online, via postal mail or by delivery. For details, please visit <a href="https://crso.info">crso.info</a>.&nbsp;The Port will provide fact sheets and other resources during the 45-day comment period at <a href="https://www.portwhitman.com">www.portwhitman.com</a>. Port staff are also at the ready to assist members of the public in understanding and forming comments on the draft EIS at 509-397-3791.&nbsp;###Additional information on the Snake River Dams is available from the following organizations:&nbsp;Pacific Northwest Waterways Association:&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;<a href="http://www.snakeriverdams.com/ ">http://www.snakeriverdams.com/&nbsp;</a>&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;<a href="ttp://ourworkingrivers.com/our-rivers/snake-river">http://ourworkingrivers.com/our-rivers/snake-river&nbsp;</a>Northwest River Partners:&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;<a href="http://nwriverpartners.org/snake-river-dams/">http://nwriverpartners.org/snake-river-dams/</a>&nbsp;Bonneville Power Administration:&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;<a href="https://www.bpa.gov/news/pubs/FactSheets/fs-201603-A-Northwest-energy-solution-Regional-power-benefits-of-the-lower-Snake-River-dams.pdf">Regional power benefits of the lower Snake River dams</a>&nbsp;About the Port of Whitman County&nbsp;The Port of Whitman County is dedicated to improving the quality of life for all citizens of Whitman County through industrial real estate development, preservation of multi-modal transportation, facilitation of economic development and provision of on-water recreational opportunities.&nbsp;&nbsp;

First public comment meeting slated for March 17 at Lewiston Red Lion Hotel

Port of Whitman County encourages public comment of river system

Read full press release <a href="https://www.commerce.wa.gov/news-releases/community-grants/state-board-approves-2-4-million-for-rural-development-projects/">here</a>.

The Washington State Community Economic Revitalization Board (CERB) announced today $1,974,742 in loans and $503,631 in grants for economic development, public infrastructure development and economic feasibility studies targeting business growth...

The Port of Whitman County has received a Washington State Community Economic Revitalization Board (CERB) award for local access road improvements for facilities at the Port of Wilma

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