SOLEDAD — City of Soledad has been awarded a $50,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development Program, a significant initiative aimed at fostering economic growth in rural communities.
This funding, combined with an equal match from the city, will total $100,000 dedicated to conducting a feasibility study and creating an economic impact report for the Soledad Container Village Project.
The comprehensive study will evaluate the economic potential and community benefits of the Container Village, identifying optimal business models, revenue opportunities and cost-effective financing options. In addition, it will provide technical assistance regarding the project’s ownership and structure.
“The USDA grant will be critical in helping the City of Soledad make informed decisions about the Container Village Project, including operational strategies and how best to execute this innovative revitalization effort,” according to a City news release.
Tencia Vargas, Economic Development and Housing Program Coordinator, emphasized the project’s potential.
“The Soledad Container Village Project aims to bring energy and vibrancy to our Downtown Corridor, stimulate economic growth, and create new jobs to boost the city’s economic vitality,” Vargas said.
The City’s Community and Economic Development team is working with the Monterey County Business Council to select a consultant for the study tasked with performing a thorough and impactful assessment of the project.
This USDA grant marks the latest success in Soledad’s ongoing funding efforts. Recently, the City also secured $750,000 in Community Development Block Grant funding, which facilitated the opening of an ACE Hardware store located at 900 Front St., enhancing the local economic landscape.
