Martin Dock, Castle Rock dirt track, more receive county tourism grants

Six local organizations received a total of nearly $200,000 in grants for construction projects to improve Cowlitz County's visitor experience and safety.

Quality journalism doesn't happen without your help

Support local news coverage and the people who report it by subscribing to The Daily News.

The reimbursement grants, combined with the previous tourism marketing grants the county awarded in December, total more than $250,000 in 2026, according to a Cowlitz County Tourism press release.

Projects for these larger grants can include updates to event infrastructure, attractions and visitor amenities.

The grants' goal is to increase overnight stays in the county. Revenue from a state tax on hotels, motels, vacation rentals and similar lodgings is returned to the county to fund projects that bring more people to the area.

The following projects or events were awarded:

* $5,000: Lower Columbia College's NWAC tournament in Longview.

* $10,400: Lelooska Foundation's destination signage in Ariel.

* $32,891: Big Smoke in Little Kalama event infrastructure in Kalama.

* $34,155: North County Recreation Association's pavilion completion in Castle Rock.

* $55,000: Mount St. Helens Motorcycle Club dirt track infrastructure in Castle Rock.

* $60,000: Rotary Club of Longview's Martin Dock upgrades at Lake Sacajawea Park in Longview.

Copyright 2026 Tribune Content Agency. All Rights Reserved.