SALEM, Ore.-The Oregon Legislature, in the short 2016 Session just ended, approved $2 million of funding for the Juntura Cutoff Road Project in Malheur and Harney Counties. The funding will complete the $6.9 million dollar sum needed for the project which will reconstruct the failing road, providing essential support for local industry, ranching access, and recreational opportunities. The Juntura Cutoff Road is of high importance for local economic development partners. The extraordinarily poor condition of the 7-mile long road has dramatically increased the cost of the mining operations conducted by EP Minerals, one of Malheur County's largest employers. Currently, the road serves as the ma

The Coronal Group (formally known as Helio Sage) is scheduled to begin construction on their Malheur County project at the end of the month and expects to be operational at the beginning of 2017. The project consists of six solar farms (one near Ontario, three near Nyssa, two near Vale). The company will be coordinating with Malheur County Economic Development and local job training providers to promote job openings in both the construction and post-construction phases. During the lifespan of the project, significant property tax revenue will also be generated for local communities, schools, and services.