About
The Carnegie reuse plan has received broad support including a USDA RISE award, selection for a California Jobs First Pilot Award, and recognition in Yreka’s Recreation Economy for Rural Communities Action Plan (US EPA).
L-R- Bruce Ross (Office of Senator Brian Dahle), Maria Gallegos Herrera (USDA RD State Director- CA), Mary Collins (Governor's Office of Planning and Research), Anna Maldonado (California Governor's Office of Business and Economic Development), Allice Bennett (Office of Assemblywoman Megan Dahle,) Nancy Ogren (Siskiyou County Supervisor), Tonya Dowse (SEDC Executive Director), Michael Kobseff (Siskiyou County Supervisor)
The Siskiyou County Economic Development Council has stewarded a multi-year, community supported and inclusive process to develop a reuse and placemaking strategy for Yreka’s historic Carnegie building. The SEDC has successfully secured $5 million in state, federal, foundation and local funding to complete construction and transform the shuttered landmark into an inspirational, iconic community asset. The project brings together multisectoral, multi-jurisdictional, and multi-agency support. Construction us underway with a grand opening planned for May 2025.
History:
The Yreka Carnegie Library has marked the community's physical and cultural infrastructure for over 100 years. The building, was designed by W. H. Weeks and completed in 1915. It exhibits Classical Revival architecture. Today, it stands as a testament to the community spirit and efforts that brought a Carnegie library to Yreka. The landmark was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1992.
Construction is Underway:
With architecture-engineering plans, and permitting complete, construction is underway. The reuse plan, led by the SEDC, saves a national treasure, serves as a catalytic investment in the West Miner Historic District, creates jobs, and further positions Siskiyou County as a recognized destination for tourism.
A Partnership:
In 2019, the City of Yreka conducted a competitive process to lead the Carnegie Library's adaptive reuse plan. The SEDC was selected for their innovative and forward-thinking approach to the project and for their outstanding track record. The SEDC's plan demonstrated clear community benefit, and the City recognized its potential to contribute to the economic development of the area. The SEDC was awarded title to secure diverse funding, provide clear community benefit, contribute to Miner Street’s revitalization, and include ADA accessibility standards in its design.
About the SEDC:
Since its inception in 1985, the SEDC has developed strategies that result in the constructive, balanced economic growth of the region. Programs include the Shasta-Cascade Small Business Development Center (SBA), Discover Siskiyou, Siskiyou Farm Co., the Siskiyou Climate Collaborative (SGC), and the Siskiyou Innovation Hub (CalOSBA).
Press:
The Carnegie adaptive reuse plan has received broad support including a USDA RISE award, selection for the California Jobs First Pilot Program, and recognition in Yreka’s Recreation Economy for Rural Communities Action Plan (US EPA).
"What Is Happening to the 109-Year-Old Yreka Carnegie Library Building?”
Author: Skip Descent: Publication: Siskiyou Daily News. Date published : April 9, 2024 URL: Link to the article
"Yreka Carnegie Groundbreaking Sets Stage for Rural Innovation Hub and Historic Preservation Efforts." Author: Amanda Brown: Siskiyou County Economic Development. Date published: April 8, 2024 URL: Link to the article
"Big Plans in Store for Yreka's Carnegie Building: What is to be?" Author: Bill Choy Publication: Siskiyou Daily News. Date published: July 16, 2021 URL: Link to the article
"Carnegie Library Restoration Project on Miner Street in Yreka Enters Fundraising Phase" Author: Skip Descant Publication: Siskiyou Daily News. Date published: October 25, 2022 URL: Link to the article
"California Awards Nearly $40 Million for Communities to Build Industries of the Future" Publication: California Office of Planning and Research (OPR). Date published: May 24, 2023 URL: Link to the article
"Siskiyou Economic Development Council Secures $2.1 Million to Complete Carnegie Rehabilitation Project and Drive Industry Innovation" Publication: SEDC. Date published: May 26, 2023 URL: Link to the article
