February 2025

Economic Development Update: Advancing Alpine County's Future

As we head into the new year, I am excited to share several key initiatives that are shaping Alpine County's economic landscape. From workforce development to sustainable infrastructure and environmental stewardship, we are making significant strides that will foster long-term prosperity for our community.

California Jobs First Initiative: Alpine County is actively participating in the California Jobs First initiative, a statewide program aimed at creating quality jobs and enhancing local economies.

This initiative brings valuable resources to our community, focusing on workforce training, small business support, and infrastructure investments. The County submitted an application for a Tri-County Recreational Economic Impact Analysis in partnership with Inyo & Mono Counties.

Expanding EV Charging Infrastructure: In response to the growing adoption of electric vehicles (EVs), we are expanding Alpine County's EV charging infrastructure. This initiative not only supports California's green energy goals but also positions our region as a forward-thinking destination for visitors and residents alike. We are currently working with the firm EV Range to conduct due diligence regarding the placement of Level-3 EV charging stations in Markleeville and Bear Valley.

Forest Restoration: Public and Private Collaboration: Forest health remains a top priority for Alpine County. We are engaged in collaborative forest restoration projects that bring together state agencies, private landowners, and local organizations. These efforts focus on reducing wildfire risk, improving watershed health, and restoring natural habitats. The County convenes the ongoing Emergency Fire Restoration Team meetings and Forest Community Working Group Meetings in partnership with local agencies, residents and non-profits. The County is currently conducting pile burning in Eastern Alpine County so smoke may be present in the County during this seasonal burning period.

Trails Planning Initiative: We are excited to announce the launch of a countywide Trails Planning Initiative, in partnership with the Alpine Trails Association, aimed at expanding and enhancing our trail network. This initiative will focus on improving connectivity between communities, increasing recreational opportunities, and promoting outdoor tourism. The initiative is currently in the planning and design phase, with stakeholder meetings to be announced in the next year.

Turtle Rock Park Master Planning Process: The Turtle Rock Park Master Planning process is underway, with robust community engagement at its core. This plan will serve as a blueprint for enhancing recreational opportunities, upgrading park facilities, and preserving the natural beauty of the area. Public input has been invaluable in shaping a vision that reflects the needs and desires of our residents. I encourage everyone to stay involved as we move forward with the next phases of planning and development.

These initiatives reflect our commitment to fostering economic resilience, environmental sustainability, and community well-being. I am proud of the progress we are making and look forward to continuing our collaborative efforts to build a vibrant and prosperous future for Alpine County.

If you have questions or would like to learn more about these projects, please feel free to reach out to my office. Together, we can shape the future of Alpine County.