The Kemmerer City Council convened on Tuesday, Nov. 12, to discuss impact funding from the Pacific Soda LLC Dry Creek Trona Project, which is expected to break ground in early 2025. Officials confirmed that the city had secured $834,000 in impact funding during a meeting with Pacific Soda representatives in Green River last month.

The funds, intended to mitigate the effects of the large-scale industrial project, will be directed to the Lincoln County Treasurer for distribution. Key city initiatives identified for funding include upgrades to the Kemmerer Police Department’s radar units, body cameras, and in-car cameras. Additionally, $700,000 will serve as a grant match for critical street repairs on Cedar and Sage avenues.

With the anticipation of these roads getting significantly increased traffic from temporary workers in the area, Kemmerer Director of Events and Recreation Trista Gordon said the estimated cost for repairing the streets was just under $1 million.

“This doesn’t quite get us to a 50% match for the grants, but it gets us close to what we need,” she said.

Road repairs are a pressing need in Kemmerer, with city officials citing the high cost of replacing and improving streets. Potholes and deteriorating road conditions have been a source of concern, and the additional funding is expected to provide some relief.

The funding comes after the city’s unsuccessful attempt to pass a special purpose tax in November’s election. The measure, which sought to raise $4.2 million for street repairs, failed due to opposition from residents in northern Lincoln County.

In addition to discussing the Pacific Soda funding, the council also addressed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) regarding impact funds for the TerraPower Kemmerer Power Station Unit 1. Under the agreement, Kemmerer will receive $2,452,602 from the industrial siting application, while Lincoln County will receive $2 million.

The Pacific Soda Dry Creek Trona Project is expected to generate significant economic activity during its construction phase, which is scheduled for completion in 2028.

As the city prepares for the influx of workers and the associated strain on infrastructure, city officials remain focused on securing funding to address the needs of the community.