Centralia Coal Transition Weatherization Board Supports the Centralia Borst Park Light Project
Centralia, (December 1, 2025) The Centralia Coal Transition Weatherization Board is pleased to announce the approval of a grant award in the amount of $250,000.00 to support the Borst Park Light project under the direction of the City of Centralia. The funding for this development project is to expand available playing time for youth and adults by accommodating field use into the evening hours while adding energy efficiency for the City of Centralia. The facilities located at the Borst Park serve as a central hub for social interactions, bringing people together for games and practices and reinforcing a sense of connection among residents.
The project integrates the field lighting project with the initiative to turf the fields extending the usability and versatility of the ballfields. The project will also address safety concerns enhancing a safe area for those participating in and attending events.
The Weatherization Board was formed as part of the 2011 Agreement between TransAlta and the state of Washington to transition the Centralia plant away from coal-fired operations with one unit retiring in December 2020 and the second unit in December 2025.
Overview of the Centralia Coal Transition Funding Boards:
Annual payments for the funding boards began in 2012 with the last payment due December 31, 2023. The opportunity to start flowing dollars into projects became effective December 31, 2015.
Weatherization Board ($10M): established to fund energy efficiency and weatherization for the residents, employees, business, non-profit organizations and local governments within Lewis County and South Thurston County; up to $1 million shall be allocated to fund residential energy efficiency and weatherization measures for low-income and moderate-income residents of Lewis County and South Thurston County;
Economic & Community Development Board ($20M): established to fund education, retraining, economic development, and community enhancement; at least $5M shall be allocated to fund education, retraining and economic development specifically targeting the needs of workers displaced from the Centralia facility;
Energy Technology Board ($25M): established to fund energy technologies with the potential to create environmental benefits to the state of Washington.