Business/Community Resilience Fund

On August 3, 2022, just over a year after the devastation of the Tamarack Fire, Markleeville residents and businesses were hit by flash flooding and mudslides that ultimately washed out Highway 89 access to the north of Markleeville. Initial estimates were up to five weeks to install a temporary roadway for resident and business access in and out of Markleeville.

In response to the economic injury caused by this highway closure and flood damage, the Alpine County Chamber of Commerce, the County of Alpine, and local partners have joined in a call to action to support the business community. The economic impact of the road closure is expected to be long-lasting, and comes for the third time following the 2021 Tamarack Fire and the 2020 Covid-19 shutdowns. 

"In a summer-seasonal economy, the loss of nearly 80% of one's business opportunity during the summer months can be devastating," says Alpine County Chamber of Commerce Executive Director, Becky DeForest. "For Markleeville's small businesses, this is the third year in a row that they've sustained such hits. They need our help now more than ever."

Donations to the resilience fund can be made online at https://gofund.me/15312fac

Can't donate but want to help? Add to the tab for first responders and residents at any of these local businesses: Cutthroat Brewing Company, Markleeville General Store, Out West Cafe, J. Marklee Toll Station, Carson River Resort.

And one of the best ways to support local businesses is to continue to visit Markleeville via Monitor Pass and/or Ebbetts Pass. It's a beautiful drive!

“Our businesses are the backbone of our community. Their resilience in the face of adversity should be recognized, says JT Chevallier, Economic Development Director for Alpine County. "Please consider spending your money where it counts the most. Support for our businesses is the best vector for recovery.” 

Applications: Please use the links below to donate, and to access the applications for residents or businesses of Alpine County that wish to apply for assistance. If a hardcopy is needed, they are available in the outside lobby of the Alpine County Visitors Center in Markleeville.

For applicants: Applications must be received by 5:00 pm PST August 26 for priority consideration. Applications submitted after that date may not receive funding. Allocations are contingent upon severity of need and availability of funds.