THE BRIDGE TO BOOZE? >>>

Let's hope members of the state's Community Economic Revitalization Board enjoy booze. If the board approves a $300,000 aid package to improve the streets around East D Street adjacent to Tacoma's old waterfront fire station north of the Murray Morgan Bridge, then Riverhorse Inc. will erect its distillery in the spot and pump out brandy, vodka and gin for national distribution.

According to News Tribune Staff writer John Gillie, the start up company will tell Oregon, Kentucky and Virginia to take a flying leap and relocate to Tacoma - if the improvements are made. The new facility, called Copper & Kings Distillery, could bring 50 new jobs, and a future a bar with a large deck overlooking the Thea Foss Waterway and downtown Tacoma.

Tacoma's Community and Economic Development Department, which learned of Riverhorse's interest in the site in late November, has been working swiftly to prepare a presentation for the state board, said Elly Walkowiak, a city economic development official.

Riverhorse is considering both the availability of basic ingredients for spirits production nearby and the proximity to population centers in making its site decision, Gadel said.

"We're looking for somewhere with ready access to apples and grapes. Oregon and Washington win on that score," Gadel said.

Read the rest of Gillie's report here.