U.S. Economic Development Administration Allocates $903,847 Grant to Makah Indian Tribe
The U.S. Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration (EDA) has announced the awarding of a $903,847 grant to the Makah Indian Tribe. This grant aims to bolster the tourism sector on the Makah Indian Reservation located in Neah Bay, Washington.
The funding will facilitate a comprehensive feasibility study of the Hobuck Beach Resort as part of the plans to construct a new motel on Tribal land.
Acting Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development, Cristina Killingsworth, commented, “The Biden-Harris Administration’s Investing in America agenda is about ensuring that all communities have the resources and opportunities they need to thrive in today’s economy.” She added that the grant will foster economic development and job creation for the Makah Indian Tribe, especially following natural disasters in the area.
Senator Maria Cantwell expressed, “Great news for one of the most spectacular parts of our state.” She noted that the federal grant will aid in reviving local tourism in NW Washington, which was impacted by significant flooding and landslides in 2021. It will also support the Makah Tribe in rebuilding essential infrastructure and creating employment opportunities.
Representative Derek Kilmer (WA-6) also shared his enthusiasm: “Communities across the Olympic Peninsula benefit from tourism to support their local economies. I’m thrilled that the Economic Development Administration will be providing federal support to the Makah Tribe to help advance the Tribe’s plans to build a new motel in Neah Bay.” He emphasized the potential for job creation and economic benefits through increased visitor traffic.
This initiative is part of the Disaster Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2023, which allocated $483 million in additional Economic Adjustment Assistance (EAA) Program funds. These funds are intended for disaster relief in areas affected by major disasters declared under the Robert T. Stafford Act due to events such as Hurricanes Ian and Fiona, wildfires, and flooding in 2021 and 2022. For further details, EDA’s Disaster Supplemental webpage can be visited here.
