August 31, 2022 3:50 a.m.

The City of Cottage Grove is receiving a $5 million American Rescue Plan Main Street Revitalization Project grant to support revitalization of its commercial district.

Congressman Peter DeFazio said, “This $5 million grant for Cottage Grove will renew the five-block historic commercial district and increase economic opportunity for local businesses and residents alike”.

A release said the project will include utilities improvements, new landscaping, updates of ADA compliance features, and more that will help advance economic resiliency throughout the region. Information from the U.S. Department of Commerce Economic Development Administration said the federal investment will be matched with $1.3 million in local funds. It is expected to create 33 jobs, retain 27 jobs, and generate $650,000 in private investment, according to grantee estimates.

Senator Ron Wyden said, “This federal investment will spark jobs for Oregonians, help longstanding small businesses in downtown Cottage Grove and generate opportunities for new small businesses in the city’s historic commercial district”. Senator Jeff Merkley said “…I am excited to see how the investments will uplift Cottage Grove for years to come”.

The EDA closed all of its American Rescue Plan programs for applications in late May. Funding will be awarded on a rolling basis through the end of September.