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16 | Old Heat CERB Feasibility Study <br />HOW WILL SUCCESS BE MEASURED FOR THE PROJECT? <br />Once completed, Old Heat will not just be a building but a centerpiece of regional economic transformation. It is expected <br />to create hundreds of direct and indirect jobs, most paying well above the county’s current median wage. Typical wages <br />in target sectors are about $40–$45 per hour on average, higher for some roles (like embedded systems and aerospace), <br />which is well above today’s county median. <br />In addition to bringing new industries to the area, Old Heat will strengthen existing businesses by helping them adopt new <br />tools and practices. Workforce training, internships, and hands-on projects will connect students from CWU with local <br />companies, encouraging them to stay and grow their careers here. <br />By 2030, the vision for Old Heat is to have built a thriving network of innovative companies, a stronger and better-paid <br />workforce, and a reputation for Kittitas County as a place where people and businesses can grow. More than just a <br />business hub, Old Heat can serve as proof that rural communities can lead in advanced technology and high-value <br />industries. It has the potential to show that history and innovation can work together for a more prosperous future for <br />Central Washington. <br />Contents <br />3 About the Old Heat CERB study <br />4 A new approach to economic development in the region <br />5 Why it matters <br />6 The big goal <br />7 The mission for the “new” Old Heat <br />8 Why adaptively reuse Old Heat instead of building new? <br />9 Who will run the new Center at Old Heat? <br />10 Plan and simplified timeline <br />11 How will this be paid for? <br />12 How will success be measured for the project? <br />13 The bottom line <br />2 <br />PLANNING FOR SUCCESS <br />The benefits of Old Heat go beyond jobs and technology. By restoring a historic landmark and <br />filling it with activity, the project will breathe new energy into downtown Ellensburg. Conferences, <br />training events, and accelerator programs will bring in visitors, boosting local hotels, restaurants, <br />and shops. This ripple effect will spread through the entire community, creating a stronger tax base <br />and more resources for schools, infrastructure, and public services.