Those who loudly speculated on the value of the Northwest Sports Hub and the ability of the Lewis County Public Facilities District to bring a project to fruition are much quieter these days.
For good reason.
As detailed on the front page of today’s edition, financial returns show a possible multi-million dollar boost to the area’s economy, providing figures to go with the constant activity at the massive sports complex at Fort Borst Park in Centralia.
The fact that the projected $4.2 million in local revenue — as well as $1.9 million for the local hotel industry — doesn’t include the recently completed 76,500-square-foot indoor sports center is more cause for celebration.
It took years for the PFD to find a project, and just as long to make it a reality.
The success of the sports complex represents one of the greatest civic accomplishments in recent memory, and the area stands to benefit from those who made it happen for decades to come.
If the figures aren’t enough, take it from the businesses in the area.
PFD Chairman Todd Chaput read a letter from Country Cousins general manager Stephanie Campbell, who said her business has seen more patrons than at any point in the past five years.
Talk to other business owners in the area, and you’ll likely hear a variation of the same story.
On a larger scale — taking into account the successful completion of the Gail and Carolyn Shaw Aquatic Center in Chehalis last year — the story of the complex helps paint the picture of a community fully capable of bringing its dreams into reality.
Patience for Interstate Changes
Those traveling Interstate 5 today were likely surprised by the changes to the Harrison Avenue and Mellen Street exits, unless they’ve been reading constant updates on the project in The Chronicle.
As reported on page Main 14, the Washington State Department of Transportation has effectively combined the two exits to allow local traffic to move freely without entering the freeway.
There will certainly be detractors and critics when it comes to the project, in some cases rightfully so.
Patience is needed, though, as WSDOT continues to finalize the project.
Research the big picture online.
To view a map of the changes visit http://goo.gl/6jcCt2.
To see the I-5 Mellen Street to Blakeslee Junction project page visit http://goo.gl/g0Ssfb.
