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Old Heat CERB Feasibility Study | 7 <br />The adaptive reuse of the Old Heat facility is a strategic investment in the Central <br />Washington region’s economic future. By transforming this historic structure <br />into a hub for technology commercialization, diffusion, and industry growth, the <br />project will foster high-wage employment and expand regional capacity to serve <br />key state and national industries. While aerospace offers a clear example of how <br />Old Heat can help reshore advanced manufacturing to Central Washington, the <br />facility is designed to also support agriculture technology, communications, and <br />other innovation-driven sectors that can anchor long-term competitiveness. <br />The Old Heat feasibility study has assessed proven models of economic <br />revitalization and identified strategies that fit the unique strengths of Kittitas <br />County and the surrounding region. This includes linking entrepreneurial support, <br />commercialization programs, technology diffusion, and workforce development <br />with industries that elevate wages and expand Washington’s global role in <br />technology and manufacturing. <br />A central feature of the project is its ability to visually demonstrate what Old <br />Heat can become. The investment in this feasibility study from the Community <br />Economic Revitalization Board (CERB) enables the creation of high-quality <br />design concepts that blend the building’s historic character with modern <br />technology needs. These concepts not only present a compelling vision for <br />stakeholders but also serve as a foundation for defining the governance <br />structure, recruiting anchor tenants, and ensuring the long-term sustainability of <br />the Old Heat commercialization center. <br />Together, these elements position Old Heat as a cornerstone for a more <br />connected, competitive, and inclusive Washington economy. Its work aligns with <br />four overarching objectives that guide the project’s design, partnerships, and <br />outcomes: <br />EXECUTIVE SUMMARY <br />Old Heat: Main Objectives <br />1. High-Wage Job Creation and Rural Economic Mobility <br />2. Technology Commercialization and Statewide Tech Diffusion <br />3. Adaptive Reuse of State Resources <br />4. Model for Statewide Replication of Strategic East–West Alignment <br />The Old Heat building could be used to bring new industries to the Central <br />Washington region: <br />• Jobs for recent graduates and local residents <br />• Collaboration opportunities for professors <br />• Access to cutting edge technology for legacy agricultural businesses