FORKS — A major boost is on the way for the West End economy, as Clallam County officials move forward on funding to support a new sawmilling operation at the Forks Industrial Park.
During their work session Monday, county commissioners learned that the Opportunity Fund Advisory Board is recommending approval of a $260,000 loan and a $675,000 grant for the City of Forks — both contingent on the city finalizing a lease with Riverside Forest Products USA. The company plans to develop a modern sawmill at the industrial park, creating as many as 100 family-wage jobs over two phases.
The Clallam County Economic Development Council is also receiving $200,000 in state funds from the Governor’s Economic Development Strategic Reserve Fund to make key infrastructure improvements at the site. The funding is part of a statewide $700,000 investment package directed by Governor Bob Ferguson, aimed at spurring job creation in key industries.
The new Forks facility will produce kiln-dried hemlock and green Douglas fir lumber, helping reduce transportation costs while supporting local logging and trucking operations. The project’s combined local and state funding is designed to strengthen the timber sector — one of the region’s cornerstone industries — and diversify economic opportunities across Clallam County.
The governor’s strategic reserve funds come from unclaimed lottery prize money and are targeted to projects that deliver significant capital investment and long-term job growth.
County commissioners will have a public hearing on the Opportunity Fund recommendations November 4th.