Cottage Grove’s Bohemian Park to receive $1.1 million in federal funds to boost tourism

COTTAGE GROVE, Ore. – The U.S. Department of Commerce’s
Economic Development Administration (EDA) announced it has awarded a $1.1
million grant to the Bohemia Foundation in Cottage Grove to boost tourism
through making improvements to Bohemian Park.

The grant is funded by the American Rescue Plan.

In August, the city of Cottage
Grove was awarded $5 million from the EDA and American Rescue Plan grant funds
for downtown revitalization.

According to a statement by the Department of Commerce, the
grant will “support the construction of an entry plaza at Cottage Grove’s
Bohemian Park.” The Department of Commerce says the EDA grant will be
matched with $274,450 in local funds.

“Getting outdoors is embedded in our DNA as Oregonians,
and this federal investment will help make that outdoors experience even better
in Cottage Grove while also generating tourism jobs throughout the
community,” said Senator Ron Wyden. “I’m glad the American Rescue Plan
I worked to make into law is making a real difference for everybody visiting
Bohemia Park to enjoy some exercise, a concert, a picnic and more.”

“The COVID-19 pandemic took a huge toll on Oregon’s
diverse tourism industry, and many communities are continuing to produce
creative solutions to bounce back,” said Senator Jeff Merkley. “This
EDA funding going to the Bohemia Foundation for park improvements in Cottage
Grove will help further fuel their economic recovery and create spaces in the
community for both visitors and residents to enjoy. I am excited to see how
this investment will uplift Cottage Grove for years to come.”

“This grant to improve Bohemian Park is a wonderful
investment in the community of Cottage Grove,” said Congressman Peter
DeFazio (OR-04). “Community members and visitors alike will benefit from
this project and continue to enjoy the park for decades to come.”