Press Release

Oregon Trade to Benefit from Commerce Department Investment to Improve Historic Columbia River Marine Terminal

June 25, 2010
Contact: John Atwood, (202) 482-4085

WASHINGTON - U.S. Commerce Secretary Gary Locke today announced a $2 million U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) grant to the city of The Dalles, Ore., and the Port of The Dalles, Ore., to improve the historic marine terminal and support increased regional and global trade. The project is expected to create 62 jobs and generate $6 million in private investment, according to grantee estimates.

"Increasing the export of American products and services to global markets can help revive the fortunes of U.S. companies, spur future economic growth and support jobs here at home," Locke said. "This EDA grant will help build a marine terminal on the Columbia River that can handle the intermodal movement of goods to strengthen the region's global competiveness and support increased trade opportunities."

The marine terminal will provide a cost-effective intermodal transportation alternative to allow businesses to ship goods trans-globally via the Port of Portland. The project is also expected to enhance tourism by attracting new customers to the historic downtown business district and improving access to the Columbia Gorge Discovery Center and the Oregon Trail.

About the U.S. Economic Development Administration (www.eda.gov):

This year, the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) marks 45 years of public service, with a mission of leading the federal economic development agenda by promoting competitiveness and preparing American regions for growth and success in the worldwide economy. EDA is an agency within the U.S. Department of Commerce that partners with distressed communities throughout the United States to foster job creation, collaboration and innovation.