Press Releases

National Park Service Awards $195,000 to Oregon Programs

April 1, 2003

Contact: Barbara Allen, Executive Director, LCBO, (503) 768-7444

Portland, Ore. Lewis & Clark Bicentennial in Oregon (LCBO), Oregon’s statewide planning organization for the Lewis & Clark Bicentennial running through 2006, recently received notice from the National Park Service that 9 Oregon projects will receive Challenge Cost Share Grants totally $195,000 for fiscal year 2003.

NPS Challenge Cost Share Program monies were awarded in Oregon to support Oregon’s national signature event, a living culture village at Tamastslikt Cultural Institute, interpretive signage at Portland/Vancouver Lewis & Clark sites, Rock Fort conservancy planning, an exhibition at the Portland airport, state park upgrades, a tribal radio program, a Troutdale Historical Society exhibit and a tribal teaching supplement for school children.

“These projects play a critical role in Oregon’s commemoration planning and I’m pleased that this important federal grant program supports our efforts.” Said Rep. Betsy Johnson, president of the bicentennial organization. “LCBO is working hard to fund many, many worthy projects all along the Columbia River before the national commemoration focuses on Oregon and Washington in 2005”.

The Challenge Cost Share Program of the National Park Service was legislated by Congress in 1995 to fund Lewis & Clark Trail projects which will: Enhance the protection or preservation of Lewis & Clark historic sites; increase the public understanding and appreciation of the expedition; provide appropriate historical research of tribal culture and natural resources associated with the expedition; and enhance the public recreational opportunities to retrace the Lewis & Clark Trail. Grant monies require an equal or better match to recipients. LCBO will administer the Oregon grant monies for the NPS.