Port of Columbia update

COLUMBIA COUNTY-One of the Port of Columbia's many projects was helping to organize a successful Career Day event, with representatives of twenty-seven different careers, at Dayton High school in May. It is hoped that the event will serve as a launching pad to rebuild the former Dayton High School internship program.

Earlier this month, the Port recognized Starbuck/Lyons Ferry Marina KOA owners Wally and Joanne Knouff for passing a U.S. Army Corps of Engineer's inspection with zero findings.

"A 100% perfect score is unheard of!" the Port noted on its Facebook page.

Below are a few of the other priorities on the Port radar over the next six months.

Rural Broadband

A Community Economic Revitalization Board grant will provide funds for a feasibility study on constructing a dark fiber network in Dayton. The fiber optic lines would be leased by Internet service providers for use by the end customer.

Touchet Valley Trail

The Port is partnering with the National Park Service, and working with community stakeholders, to develop a concept plan for a pedestrian/biking trail between Dayton and Waitsburg. The trail is part of the Blue Mountain Region Trails Project. The Port anticipates that the trail will be a great economic asset to the community.

Coworking and Incubator Spaces

The Port has several incubator and coworking spaces in early development that would provide low-cost shared work space for new businesses that don't need a large workspace, or for work-from-home employees who want a dedicated space outside the home. Persons interested in a coworking or incubator space can contact Kathryn Witherington at (509) 382-2577 or kathryn@portofcolumbia.org.

Blue Mountain Station #2

The second building on the Blue Mountain Station site is nearing completion. After construction stalled under a private developer, the Port purchased the building, began work to finish it, and expects it to be complete in late summer.