FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
17 January 2026
[Bremerton, WA] — The Port of Illahee has been awarded a Rural Ports Program grant totaling $280,000 from the Washington State Community Economic Revitalization Board (CERB) to support the Illahee General Store’s Renovation located across from the newly refurbished Illahee Dock.
The funding will help advance port improvements to support small business development and job growth and provide critical safety measures for local residents.
“CERB has been an amazing partner in helping to secure and administer this funding for the Rural Ports Program. Without their efforts, we would be unable to renovate this public asset that has been abandoned for nearly 25 years,” said Eric Hall, Port Commissioner.
CERB funding supports the public infrastructure communities need to unlock economic opportunity, attract private investment, and build long-term resilience. Projects funded by CERB commonly include broadband, water and wastewater systems, port facilities, stormwater, and public buildings.
“CERB’s mission is to help local governments and tribes finance their vision for their future. Strategic infrastructure funding is a crucial building block for economic growth. CERB projects represent an important partnership between the state and local communities resulting in enhanced economic vitality,” said Janea Stark, Executive Director of the Community Economic Revitalization Board.
About CERB
The Washington State Community Economic Revitalization Board (CERB) is a trusted public partner in local, inclusive economic development. For over four decades, CERB has provided funding and strategic support for infrastructure projects that help communities—from rural towns to Tribal nations—spark business development, job creation, and long-term resilience. Learn more at https://www.commerce.wa.gov/cerb/.
Project Fast Facts:
● Project Name: Illahee General Store Renovation
● CERB Award: $280,000
● Local Match: $70,000
● Project Type: Renovation of a Public Asset to Support Local Business and Provide Critical Safety Infrastructure
● Timeline: Q1-Q2 2026
Media Contact:
Eric Hall, Port of Illahee
portofillahee@gmail.com