By Rich Williams Many of you have probably seen the new Historic Eatonville" sign as you enter town. This is an important step in promoting tourism in Eatonville. According to a study in 2011, Mount Rainier National Park generates over $33 million in tourist revenue each year. The money is spent throughout the area. Currently, Eatonville captures just over 1 percent of that revenue. If the Town Council, the school district, the chamber of commerce, the merchants and the citizens of Eatonville work together to remedy the traffic problems on Washington Avenue as well as improve the image of the Town, Eatonville will be better positioned to increase its share of this financial opportunity. A realistic goal for everyone to strive for would be 6 percent to 7 percent of this revenue. This level of success will generate an additional $1.9 in merchant sales. This new sign, as well as a duplicate to be located at the triangle intersection on State Route 7, will inform and direct tourists to the new Visitors Center and other tourist-related businesses. By spring, the goal is to have the signs installed and landscaped. In addition, a focus will be made on Nevitt Point to improve its appearance. Flower beds will be weeded and barked, plants will be clipped and shaped, trees will be pruned and the sprinkler system will be tested and fixed as necessary. The cost of this undertaking will be a joint venture between the town of Eatonville and some supportive businesses. The merchants who have already generously donated to this effort are: " Keith and Delores Malcom (Malcom's Milltown Center). " Gary Malcom. " Mike and Kathy Knelleken. " Waylan and Diana Jumper. " Linda Rosenow. " Kirk and Tara Heinz (Kirk's Pharmacy). " Dave and JoAnne Williams (Barney's Corner). " Mike and Monica Williams. " Brent Sorensen (Eatonville Automotive). " Dave Anderson (Motor Worx). " Dave and Jamie Smith (Pawn and Things). " Harrison and Debbie Christian (Milltown Motel and Subway). " Terry and Sharon Van Eaton (Founding Family Antiques). " McLiquors (Steve and Robin McVicker). " Nancy Iams (Holly Hut). " Rich and Ruthie Williams (Mashell Avenue Investments). It's this type of effort and financial support that will make this opportunity a reality. The town of Eatonville and the merchants listed above deserve our gratitude and our support. If you want to become part of the team, please send a contribution to Eatonville Matters, P.O. Box 1868, Eatonville, WA 98328.
Rich Williams is a businessman.
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