Grant County CoWorks seeks Seneca site as part of $45,000‑funded broadband co‑working pilot

Allison Field and Didgette McCracken presented a three‑phase plan from Grant County CoWorks designed to address technology and internet access shortages across the county, beginning with John Day, Prairie City and Seneca. They said Phase 1 already has $45,000 in funding and could be operational in about six months with 24/7 keycard access and security surveillance.

Councilors asked whether Seneca would be expected to raise local funds; Field and McCracken said the plan relies primarily on outside funders and that the presenters were seeking Seneca’s support and a possible location. The presenters identified a building near the school owned by Mahogany Ridge Properties as a potential site and described the project’s long‑term goal of a multi‑purpose regional center serving multiple communities.

The council signaled support for the concept and agreed staff should continue coordinating with Grant County CoWorks on logistics and site feasibility. No formal funding commitment was made at the meeting.