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-Editorial
The Imperial County Board of Supervisors ratified the submittal of an application to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for the Community Change Grant Program, advancing the transformative GREAT Gateway to Lithium Valley Project in Niland, California at their Dec. 3rd regular meeting. This initiative aims to position the region as a hub for renewable energy, workforce development, and cultural heritage while addressing local environmental and economic challenges.
The Board approved a partnership agreement between the County, the Imperial Valley Wellness Foundation (IVWF), and a letter of support for the EPA grant application. The collaboration is central to securing funding for the innovative project, which is designed to connect community, tribes, renewable energy industries, and the environment.
The GREAT (Green. Renewable. Energy. Advancing. Together) Gateway project will feature a state-of-the-art Lithium Valley Visitor Center, which will showcase interactive exhibits on renewable energy, lithium, and water sustainability. Highlights include hands-on displays, virtual reality experiences, and a historical timeline of the region’s evolution. The center will be powered by a solar microgrid, ensuring a sustainable and climate-resilient design.
“This project not only creates jobs during its development but also generates ongoing employment opportunities,” said Bari Bean, Imperial County Deputy CEO of Natural Resources. “For instance, the Lithium Valley Visitor Center will require staff to manage its operations, and there will be roles to oversee the community and recreation spaces. Additionally, the grant application includes several programs, such as a community air program with education initiatives and air monitoring systems, which will be open to proposals from other entities. This creates opportunities for local organizations to apply and contribute. We are also committed to robust community engagement, partnering with the Imperial Valley Wellness Foundation and other groups for monthly meetings, newsletters, and updates—available in both English and Spanish. This ensures collaboration and transparency throughout the project’s lifecycle.”
The GREAT Gateway project features several key components designed to benefit the community and region. The Tribal Heritage Hall will showcase artifacts, photographs, and virtual simulations that highlight the cultural significance of regional tribes, developed in collaboration with tribal representatives. The Industry Connection Corner will focus on workforce opportunities in renewable energy, offering interactive displays and educational pathways in partnership with San Diego State University and Imperial Valley College. Additionally, a Community and Emergency Resiliency Hub will serve as both a recreation space and a safe haven for residents during extreme weather events or emergencies.
The project will also revitalize outdoor spaces by creating a community park with cycling and walking paths, ADA-accessible play areas, and a community garden to promote food security and environmental education. Complementing these developments are meeting spaces, a transportation corridor with a pedestrian bridge, and a business wing to provide Northend residents with improved access to essential public services, such as workforce training and potentially a post office.
Niland, located near the burgeoning Lithium Valley, faces significant economic and health disparities. The GREAT Gateway project is designed to improve air quality, reduce CO2 emissions, and create pathways to renewable energy careers, addressing immediate community needs while paving the way for long-term regional growth.
The EPA’s grant program focuses on community-driven solutions for pollution and climate resilience, fostering partnerships to unlock additional resources and build capacity for transformative projects like the GREAT Gateway.
“This community has faced significant challenges and needs all the help it can get,” said Imperial County Supervisor District 1 Jesus Eduardo Escobar. “Historically, the area has struggled, but with this project, we have the potential to create success stories that can transform the region. One suggestion as we move forward is to incorporate a focus on our rich history—how our grandparents and great-grandparents turned this desert into a thriving valley through their efforts to bring in water. Sharing that story is vital for our community and future generations. I commend everyone involved in bringing this incredible project to life.”
“We were asked for a letter of support, and we were happy to provide one,” said Eric Reyes from Amigos de la Comunidad. “Right now, there’s a frenzy of grant applications, but I really appreciate your plan. Compared to some others we’ve supported, this one stands out as innovative and true to the goals of climate resiliency. Your focus on long-lasting, well-paying jobs and workforce development is exactly what our region needs. I commend everyone involved for this thoughtful and impactful proposal.”
