On Nov. 3, Chehalis voters will decide whether to renew that funding for another 10 years.

The measure is not a new tax. Voters originally approved the TBD in 2017. The measure on this year’s ballot would continue the existing 0.2% sales tax at the same rate, equal to 2 cents on a $10 purchase.

Since the TBD began, it has generated $11.2 million for transportation improvements in Chehalis. Funding has helped complete projects including reconstruction of NW Pacific Avenue and SW Chehalis Avenue, as well as sidewalk and pedestrian improvements along SW 13th Street.

TBD revenue also helps the City secure state and federal grants that allow local dollars to go further. The City has leveraged millions of dollars in outside funding for transportation projects, including a $4 million state grant for the first phase of the Downtown Rejuvenation Plan.

Upcoming transportation investments include Safe Routes to School improvements that will create safer walking and biking connections to local schools, parks and youth recreation facilities. The City is also working toward replacement of the aging Chamber Way Rail Bridge and future phases of downtown transportation improvements.

Because the TBD receives sales tax revenue, visitors who purchase goods and services in Chehalis also contribute to transportation improvements.

Residents can learn more about the Transportation Benefit District at ci.chehalis.wa.us/publicworks/page/transportation-benefit-district-renewal.

The post Chehalis Transportation Benefit District Renewal on November Ballot appeared first on Experience Chehalis.

Sponsored by Gesa Credit Union

The train departs from the railroad depot located in Chehalis at 1101 SW Sylvenus Street, across from the Veterans Memorial Museum at Exit 77 on I-5.

The post All Aboard the Pumpkin Train appeared first on Experience Chehalis.

Chehalis voters will be asked this November to renew the City’s existing Transportation Benefit District (TBD) sales tax at the same rate, not approve a new tax. One important benefit of TBD funding is its ability to help the City compete for millions of dollars in state and federal grants, allowing local transportation dollars to go further.

Many transportation grants require cities to contribute local funding toward a project before state or federal agencies will provide the rest. The City’s voter-approved TBD provides a dedicated source of transportation funding that can be used for those required matches.

Chehalis voters originally approved the TBD in 2017. The existing 0.2% sales tax is dedicated to streets, pedestrian safety projects, traffic congestion relief and matching funds for grants. The City is asking voters to renew the TBD for another 10 years at the same 0.2% rate, or 2 cents on a $10 purchase. The renewal will appear on the Nov. 3, 2026 general election ballot.

Since the TBD began in 2017, it has raised approximately $11.2 million for transportation improvements and helped the City leverage an additional $12.9 million in state and federal grants.

“Having local funding available puts Chehalis in a much stronger position when we compete for grants,” Public Works Director Lance Bunker said. “Instead of asking local taxpayers to cover the entire cost of a major project, we can use those dollars to bring additional transportation funding into our community.”

One example is Phase I of the Downtown Rejuvenation Master Plan. The Washington State Transportation Improvement Board has committed $4 million toward the project, with approximately $4.11 million in local TBD funding helping provide the required match. Together, that creates an investment of more than $8.1 million in downtown transportation and infrastructure improvements.

The City also received a $1.75 million Washington State Department of Transportation grant for Safe Routes to School improvements. The project will add sidewalks, ADA-accessible curb ramps, pedestrian crossings and other safety improvements connecting local schools, parks and youth recreation facilities. TBD funding provides the cash flow needed for the City to advance the project and receive reimbursement through the grant.

TBD funding also helps position Chehalis to pursue major projects that would otherwise be difficult for a city of approximately 10,000 residents to fund locally. The City has secured $3 million in WSDOT grant funding to advance replacement of the Chamber Way Rail Bridge, in addition to $242,000 previously awarded for a feasibility study. Another $3 million is anticipated during the 2027-2029 biennium.

More information about the Transportation Benefit District and planned transportation projects is available at ci.chehalis.wa.us/publicworks/page/transportation-benefit-district.

The post Chehalis transportation funding brings millions in outside investment to community appeared first on Experience Chehalis.

The Chehalis City Council recently passed a resolution placing a Transportation Benefit District (TBD) renewal before voters on the Nov. 3, 2026, general election ballot. The ballot measure would renew the City’s existing voter-approved Transportation Benefit District for another 10 years at the current 0.2% sales tax rate.

If approved, the measure would continue providing dedicated local funding for street improvements, pedestrian safety projects, traffic congestion relief and the local matching funds needed to secure state and federal transportation grants.

“This funding has helped improve streets, sidewalks and pedestrian safety throughout Chehalis while bringing millions of dollars in state and federal grants into our community,” said Public Works Director Lance Bunker. “Renewing the Transportation Benefit District at the existing rate will help us keep that work moving forward.”

Since the Transportation Benefit District was established in 2017, it has generated approximately $11.2 million for transportation projects throughout the city, including improvements to Northwest Pacific Avenue, Southwest Chehalis Avenue and pedestrian safety enhancements along Southwest 13th Street.

The local funding has also enabled the City to leverage approximately $12.9 million in additional state and federal grants by providing the local matching funds required for many transportation projects. Those grants have supported major investments such as the Downtown Rejuvenation Plan, which will improve safety, accessibility, mobility and economic vitality in downtown Chehalis.

If renewed, Transportation Benefit District funding would continue supporting projects such as Safe Routes to School pedestrian and bicycle improvements, the Chamber Way Bridge replacement and future phases of the Downtown Rejuvenation Plan.

Additional information about the Transportation Benefit District renewal is available on the City’s website at ci.chehalis.wa.us/publicworks/page/transportation-benefit-district-renewal

The post Chehalis voters to consider Transportation Benefit District renewal appeared first on Experience Chehalis.

A buffet dinner is served on the deck as you line up to dine in our themed dining car as characters and entertainment unfold along the route. This two-hour experience is $89 per person and includes your three-course meal plus your scenic train ride. BBQ is catered by Joy’s Once Upon a Thyme: BBQ ribs, baked beans, macaroni salad, fruit slaw, and cornbread—finished with a chocolate cupcake with raspberry frosting. Lemonade, coffee, and water are included, and beer, wine, and cocktails will be available for purchase onboard.

Reservations are required—secure your seats early. The train departs promptly at 5:00 PM from our station just off I-5 Exit 77 in Chehalis (about 1.5 hours south of Seattle). After exiting, turn left onto Riverside Road and follow the signs to the rail yard. Our historic 1920s passenger cars seat up to 100 guests for a relaxing ride along 9 miles of scenic countryside beside the Chehalis River. Visit steamtrainride.com for tickets and details.

The post Wild West Adventure Dinner Train on the Chehalis Railroad appeared first on Experience Chehalis.

Step back in time and experience an evening of nostalgia with a Dinner Train Ride on a vintage 1920s-style rail coach through the Chehalis River Valley. The Chehalis-Centralia Railroad invites you to dress up in your best Roaring ‘20s-inspired attire: think glitzy flapper dresses, dapper suits, sequins, and all the bangles. The best-dressed guest will win a prize!

Arrive early and take the opportunity to pose for professional photos at the limousine photo opp. The red carpet is rolled out for your grand entrance, and with a flourish, you’ll board the train for your 5 p.m. departure.

Cocktails are served on board the train as you are seated for your evening of adventure. A 3-course New York Strip Steak or Vegetarian option will be served as you journey through the Chehalis River Valley. Dessert will be served as you return to the station. The cost is $89 pp including your two hour excursion and dinner. Seating is limited to 100 lucky passengers. Tickets are on sale now at ChehalisTrainRides.com.  Reservations must be made by July 12.

The train returns to the Depot at 7pm, leaving you with unforgettable memories of a night steeped in glamour, camaraderie, and a touch of 1920s magic.

The Chehalis-Centralia Railroad is a historic non-profit railroad dedicated to preserving the rich railway history of the Pacific Northwest while offering unique and entertaining experiences for everyone. The train departs from the Chehalis Centralia Train Depot, located at 1101 SW Sylvenus Street, Chehalis, WA 98532, Exit 77 off I-5. For more details and to book your tickets, visit the Chehalis Railroad’s website.

The post Roaring ‘20s Dinner Train appeared first on Experience Chehalis.

The post ChehalisFest Returns July 25 with a Full Day of Summer Fun in Downtown Chehalis appeared first on Experience Chehalis.

The post The BINGO Train Rolls Again appeared first on Experience Chehalis.

Local Internet Provider Commits $65K to Neighboring Communities

TACOMA, Wash. — April 21, 2026 — Lightcurve, the internet provider delivering the fastest speeds at unbeatable prices across the State of Washington, today announced a series of philanthropic investments supporting economic growth and vibrant downtown communities throughout Central and Western Washington.

As part of its ongoing commitment to the communities it serves, Lightcurve has pledged $25,000 to the Tacoma-Pierce County Economic Development Board, reinforcing efforts to drive regional economic growth, attract new business opportunities, and support workforce development initiatives.

Recognizing the importance of thriving local business districts, Lightcurve has also made targeted donations to several downtown associations, including:

• $10,000 to the Selah Downtown Association
• $10,000 to the Centralia Downtown Association
• $10,000 to Experience Chehalis
• $10,000 to the Ellensburg Downtown Association

“Support from Lightcurve helps us create a stronger, more connected community and fosters the kind of place people are proud to call home,” said Annalee Tobey, the Executive Director at Experience Chehalis. “Our partnership is creating a lasting impact, and we’re proud to work alongside Lightcurve to support the spirit of our Chehalis.”

“Lightcurve’s investment in downtown Centralia is an investment in the heart of our community,” said MacKenzie McGee, Executive Director for the Centralia Downtown Association. “Their support allows us to advance revitalization efforts, support small businesses, and create meaningful experiences that bring people together in our historic core. Partnerships like this don’t just fund projects—they help build long-term momentum for a vibrant, resilient downtown.”

“Lightcurve’s investment in the Selah Downtown Association has strengthened our ability to support local businesses through beautification and façade grant programs, while also helping bring community events to life throughout the year—including our 4th of July celebration and Holiday Lighted Parade, to name just a few,” said Pattie Graffe, Executive Director of the Selah Downtown Association. “As a committed community partner, their ongoing support plays a meaningful role in advancing every part of our mission. Together, we are creating a downtown where the heart of Selah is vibrant and welcoming—filled with eye-catching artwork, greenery, and refreshed storefronts—while fostering a strong sense of community and honoring the history that makes Selah unique.”

“We’re grateful to Lightcurve for investing in downtown Ellensburg and the small businesses that make our community unique,” said Teresa Chanes, Executive Director of the Ellensburg Downtown Association. “Partnerships like this help us continue to build a vibrant downtown for our entire community.”

Lightcurve’s philanthropic efforts reflect its broader mission to not only deliver fast, reliable internet, but also to be a trusted partner in the long-term success and vitality of the communities it serves.

“These communities are more than just places we serve—they’re home,” said Beth Barnes, Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Lightcurve. “Our employees live here, raise their families here, and are deeply connected to these neighborhoods. That makes giving back especially meaningful. We’re proud to support initiatives that foster economic opportunity and help downtown areas thrive.”

As Lightcurve continues expanding its fiber network across Washington, the company remains committed to investing in programs and partnerships that make a lasting, positive impact.

The post Local Internet Provider Commits $65K to Neighboring Communities appeared first on Experience Chehalis.

Chehalis, WA – Enjoy a fun and relaxing outing for moms, grandmas, aunts, and the whole family. Ride the rails and be catered to by our crew as you travel through the scenic Chehalis River Valley. The Chehalis-Centralia Scenic Railroad is celebrating Mother’s Day weekend with a special Mother’s Day Brunch and 2-hour ride on Saturday, May 9, departing at 11:00 a.m. Tickets are $59 per person (2 and under free). Reservations are required by May 3. Tickets are available at SteamTrainRide.com.

The gourmet brunch menu is created by Joy’s Once Upon a Thyme and includes a selection of three varieties of petite sandwiches, including chicken tarragon croissant, carver’s ham, cheese & fig, and turkey, cranberry and cream cheese.

Or enjoy the vegetarian option, including cucumber and cream cheese on local sourdough bread, gourmet egg salad with a velvety lemon-chive aioli on marbled rye, and vegan tomato field roast with artichoke tapenade on hearty wheat bread.

All served with tender organic mixed greens topped with fresh raspberries, red onion, and toasted sliced almonds, served with our signature fresh raspberry vinaigrette and accompanied by handcrafted marionberry and a pecan scone. Complete the brunch with a butter crème frosted vanilla cupcake for dessert.

Beverages include coffee, lemonade, and water. Locally-crafted hard cider from 3 Dog Cider and Brewstillery will be available for purchase.

Make plans now to join this two-hour excursion on Saturday, May 9. Ride in our 1920s diner car and attached open coach for a memorable experience. Relax and enjoy the sights and sounds of railroading as it used to be. The train departs from the Depot at 1101 SW Sylvenus Street in Chehalis, across from the Veterans Memorial Museum. Take Exit 77, halfway between Seattle and Portland. The depot is approximately one mile from I-5. Parking is free. The train is ADA accessible.

The post Mother’s Day Brunch & Train Ride appeared first on Experience Chehalis.