Gov. Gregoire addresses the Yakima downtown futures initiative dedication

June 18, 2008

*As Written*

Thank you, Mayor for the kind introduction.

Many, many people worked to make this day a reality. Let me especially recognize former Senator Alex Deccio, Representative Mary Skinner, and Mayor Edler for their hard work.

I remember Alex coming to my office on at least one occasion to ask for help � and I�m pleased to say he got it.

�A big thanks and congratulations to all who worked so hard on behalf of the people of Yakima.

It�s gratifying to be here in the historic Front Street district to dedicate � and celebrate - the completion of Phase One and Two of the Down Town Futures Project.

I remember sitting in the Graystone restaurant where these renovations were first considered. And now, all of us have accomplished the extraordinary.

The downtown area has suffered for years due to the movement of people out to the suburbs. After the downtown mall followed them, Yakima leaders and the people of Yakima decided to do something about it.

They established a unique local partnership and moved forward.

The Yakima community dreamed of a renewed and vibrant central business district with improved public safety standards and accessible movement - including new sidewalks, lighting, irrigation -and other basic infrastructure.

The community worked hand-in-hand with the local leaders and city planners and agreed on a warm, welcoming Tuscan theme to their renovation.

With former Senator Alex Deccio leading the effort, in 2005, the Legislature and I approved $5 million in funding for Phase One.

In 2006, we provided another $2.5 million to complete Phase Two. Pedestrian safety was critical to that effort.

In total, the state provided $7.5 million for this important project. The city of Yakima contributed approximately 25 percent of the project -- which approached $2.5 million.

Because of the critical importance in developing and maintaining both the economic and historic value of this area, in 2007, the Legislature allocated $1 million toward Phase Three.

I am proud to see that Phase Three is in motion and Yakima will contribute an additional $600,000 to ensure Phase Three becomes reality.

Are these investments working? Yes, they are.

The Front street district is also now realizing significant private sector investment because of the renovation work. The people of Yakima are once again visiting the down town corridor and it is thriving.

Again, I want to thank Mayor Edler, Senator Deccio and all the elected and community leaders who had the vision and the creative spirit to find resources for this important public works project.

Working together you found the strength and the perseverance required to make this wonderful renovation happen for the people of the Yakima Valley.