This project is a significant investment bringing more electrical capacity to serve North Mason County businesses and residents, inclding those in Belfair, Allyn, Victor, and the Tahuya Peninsula.
The total project cost for all phases could be upwards of $16 million. Most of the specialized equipment needed, and labor to install it, is subject to competitive bid processes. There are many stages to this type of multiyear project, so providing a hard dollar amount in these early stages is challenging.
PUD 3 has been the recipient of several grant awards to help this project move forward:
- Representative Derek Kilmer supported an application that was awarded $3 Million through the Congressional Directed Spending Project.
- The American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), with Mason County as a conduit, is providing $1.5 Million for the project.
- Thanks to our 35th District legislators, $1 million was allocated from the Washington State capital budget to assist with the project.
- State CERB loan approved for up to $5 million.
PUD will continue to pursue grants and financial assistance for this project to reduce the impact on ratepayers. System Capacity Funds, capital construction bonds, and ultimately electric rates will provide the backstop for project costs that cannot be funded through grant awards.