Port of Columbia applying for funds for craft malt processing building

By Dan Thesman on Friday, March 15th, 2024 in Columbia Basin News More Top Stories

DAYTON, Washington – The Port of Columbia is applying to the Community Economic Revitalization Board for funds to connect to existing infrastructure and construct a craft malt processing building at the Blue Mountain Station Food Park, located off U.S. 12.

Port commissioners unanimously approved Wednesday moving ahead with the $5 million grant/loan package application for this project, which is due Monday.

The private sector partner, Mainstem Malt, would invest an amount equal or greater than $5 million in the project.

The port staff explained that this is not a brewery as the business malts barley grown in the region, packages it, and sells it to breweries and distilleries. The 11,000 square foot building would include bulk grain and malt storage. Plans call for design and permitting to take place May through November 2024, estimating and bidding happening December 2024 to June 2025, then the building undergoing construction July 2025 to July 2026.