Columbia Basin Health Association
in Othello Receives
“Excellence in Downtown Revitalization” Award
OLYMPIA—The Columbia Basin Health Association is being recognized for undertaking an “Outstanding Special Project” in downtown Othello. The award was presented during the 20th Annual Downtown Revitalization Training Institute held May 2-4, 2006 in Port Angeles, and was among six projects honored.
The Othello Family Clinic sits in the heart of downtown Othello. It is a busy facility offering dental, vision and medical care to this rural community.
Limited space in the facility and closure of the town’s only full service pharmacy prompted the Columbia Basin Health Association (CBHA) to consider expanding the clinic. They certainly could have selected and expansion site outside of the downtown near the hospital, but instead chose to stay in their established location.
The expansion not only improved the function of the facility, which now offers a full service pharmacy and additional vision and dental care, it has also become a cornerstone building in the community. Like many building downtown, the clinic was originally designed for function with little thought given to aesthetics. However, with the expansion, CBHA worked closely with the city to ensure the design was in line with long-term improvement and revitalization plans. The project has encouraged neighboring properties to upgrade their appearance and has also prompted the formation of a Town Beautification Committee.
“The result of this effort is easy and convenient access to healthcare services, increased traffic flow within the downtown area, and an overall improvement in the look and appeal of our city,” said City of Othello Administrator Ehman Sheldon.
The Downtown Revitalization Training Institute is sponsored by the Washington State Department of Community, Trade and Economic Development (CTED). CTED is the state’s lead agency charged with enhancing and promoting sustainable community and economic vitality throughout the state.