McCormick Park in St. Helens gets an electrical jolt of good news

Significant electrical upgrades at McCormick Park will now make it possible for the largest park in St. Helens to stage bigger events.

The improvements were completed because of a $7,000 Columbia River People’s Utility District economic development grant awarded to the city of St. Helens.

A news release from the city says the park previously did not have sufficient electrical capacity to host large-scale events that required a large power supply.

Columbia River PUD upgraded their electrical service line to the park, and Peak Electric Group, LLC, installed a new meter service and breaker panels, in addition to multiple receptacles for 50-amp and 120-volt connections.

“These upgrades will help facilitate large community events where bands and vendors need significant power supply,” the city says. “The upgrades can also be used by people or groups who rent the park through a special use permit to host private or public events.”

McCormick Park is taking on added significance in 2024, with 13 Nights on the River taking place at the park because of ongoing waterfront redevelopment construction. Independence Day community events will also take place at the park as well as Citizens Day on Saturday, June 22 .

“Columbia River PUD offers its Economic Development Grant to local not-for-profit entities that are engaged in promoting economic development activities,” the city said. “The goal for the Economic Development Grant program is to create economic opportunities for our communities and various organizations to prosper.”