La Grande City Council Approves Grant Submission for Infrastructure Project
LA GRANDE – In a meeting on Wednesday, October 7, the La Grande City Council approved a grant submission request from La Grande Public Works to the Northeast Oregon Economic Development District (NEODD) and U.S. Department of Energy’s Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) implementation program.
CEDS is designed as a funding source for state, local, and tribal entities focused on promoting economic development and addressing the impacts of large construction projects. The NEOEDD has previously secured a $1 million CEDS grant, and La Grande is now applying for a sub-grant to fund the Eastside Water and Sewer Infrastructure project.
According to a memo from Public Works, presented during the council meeting:
“The Northeast Oregon Economic Development District (NEOEDD) has been awarded a $15 million grant to support the implementation of its Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) in Baker and Union counties. This funding, through the US Department of Energy, has the potential to enhance the region’s economic resilience and improve the lives of its residents.”
Potential uses for the grant funding include various water system projects, well drilling, and other infrastructure improvements. The council unanimously approved the request to submit the grant application, which is expected to be reviewed and potentially approved later this fall or winter.
