WYDEN, MERKLEY: $225,000 TO KLAMATH AND LAKE COUNTIES FOR ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

Wednesday, June 7, 2023

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley today announced that the South Central Oregon Economic Development District will receive $225,000 from the Economic Development Administration for economic development planning in Klamath and Lake counties.

“I know from holding more than 1,050 town halls throughout our state that Oregon communities are working hard to support resilient, lasting economic growth,” Wyden said. “These federal dollars will provide a targeted investment for the great work by the South Central Oregon Economic Development District to support Klamath and Lake counties so these rural communities can thrive no matter the circumstances.”

“Economic growth and stability are crucial for the success of rural communities across Oregon,” Merkley said. “This funding will help set Klamath and Lake Counties up for continued economic development, and I will keep working to support local economies in every corner of the state.” 

South Central Oregon Economic Development District will use the federal funds towards a $450,000 project to establish an economic development strategy that supports private capital investment and job creation in South Central Oregon. The process is designed to bring together the public and private sectors in the creation of an economic development roadmap to diversify and strengthen the regional economy.

“South Central Oregon Economic Development District utilizes this funding, alongside contributions from our County Commissioners and City and Town Managers, to support economic development, promote job growth, increase private investment, and encourage innovation in our region,” said Alison Smith, SCOEDD Deputy Director. “The Partnership Planning Grant enables us to determine local needs directly from community members and leaders to address the region’s priorities and goals through tangible strategies and action plans. The Economic Development Administration, local leadership, and community members have been instrumental in implementing this work, and SCOEDD looks forward to continuing to work with them as we kick off this new Partnership Planning Grant.”