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Tuesday, March 24, 2026
Read on for:
Rutland County Priority Projects | Workforce in Motion Academy | 112 Quality Lane | Membership Spotlight | CEDRR Member Benefits | What's New in Rutland County | Economic Development News and Opportunities | Real Rutland Concierge Program | The Hub CoWorks | Made at The MINT | Career Hub | Upcoming Events
The bridge spanning East Creek on Rutland's Creek Path, one of Rutland County's Priority Projects.
CEDRR Compiling List of 2026 Rutland County Priority Projects
Every year, the Chamber & Economic Development of the Rutland Region (CEDRR) works with the State of Vermont to produce a list of Priority Projects for Rutland County. This work is completed in partnership with the Rutland Regional Planning Commission (RRPC) and is designed to help the State prioritize which projects receive funding from a variety of sources. Each project is reviewed by a committee made of CEDRR and RRPC representatives and scored based on a set of criteria determined by the State. As we are soliciting economic development projects, the criteria are in place to assess the potential economic impact and those projects providing the greatest economic impact will receive higher scoring.
To help you demonstrate the economic impact of your project, the following are the criteria for scoring each of the sections of the application:
- Project purpose and Benefits
- Project Timeline, Milestones, and Status
- Project Principal Experience
- Project Support and Regional Need
- Project Cost, Identified and Committed Funds/Financing, and Funding Gap
- Job Creation
For in-depth descriptions of each criteria, please visit our website.
If you are already on the list of CEDRR’s Priority Projects for Rutland County, someone will reach out to you to have you update any changes. If you are not currently on the list and are interested in being included, please reach out for an application.
This year’s applications are due by Thursday, April 30, 2026. Applications can be emailed to Sarah Pelkey at CEDRR. You may also contact Sarah Pelkey if you have any questions.
Workforce in Motion Academy
Applications for this summer's Workforce in Motion Academy are live!
The Workforce in Motion Academy, powered by the Rutland Regional Planning Commission, will offer students real pathways into the workforce. If you know a student ready to take the next step towards a career in the trades, this is a real opportunity to receive hands-on training, real credentials, and direct connections to employers.
There's also over $20,000 in scholarships available through the Workforce in Motion Summit, to be held on May 21 from 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM at the Vermont State University Castleton Campus, hosted by the Chamber & Economic Development of the Rutland Region!
Learn more and apply for the Workforce in Motion Academy at www.workforceinmotion.org/apply-now
Commercial Property for Lease - 112 Quality Lane, Rutland, VT
Unlimited possibilities await you in this oversized commercial space - ready for retrofitting by the next tenant! With compressed air lines, three-phase power, and room for office space, this site will meet all of your needs!
This 12,320 square foot property features a large parking lot, 14-foot loading dock, fob entry system, propane and oil heat, a break area, and more!
For more information, call (802) 773-2747. You may also visit CEDRR’s site selection page to see a variety of commercial locations for sale, rent, or lease across Rutland County.
Attention Bakers & Vendors: Save the Date for the 5th Annual Whoopie Pie Festival!
The CEDRR Team will be putting on Rutland’s 5th Annual Whoopie Pie Festival on Saturday, September 12, and we hope that you will be able to join us!
We will send out more information over the coming weeks. Please fill out this form if you plan to participate. Any questions? Please contact CEDRR Events Manager Dominique Winter at info@rutlandeconomy.com or by phone at (802) 773-2747.
We look forward to seeing you in September!
CEDRR's Member Services Manager Chrispin White visited staff at the Rutland branch of The Bank of Bennington this week, located at 143 Woodstock Ave. Pictured with Chrispin are Niki Rhoades, Emma Eden, Laurie Grey, Scott Dikeman and Tim Duguay. We thank The Bank of Bennington for being active members of CEDRR!
Welcome to Our New Members
Cornerstone Caregiving is proud to bring compassionate, personalized in-home care services to the Rutland County Community. Our mission is simple: to help individuals age safely, comfortably, and with dignity in the place they call home. We understand that every client’s needs are unique, which is why we tailor our services to support each individual and their family with flexibility and compassion.
Our dedicated caregivers provide a wide range of non-medical services, including personal care, companionship, meal preparation, light housekeeping, transportation, and specialized dementia care. Whether someone needs just a few hours of support each week or around-the-clock care, our team is committed to enhancing quality of life while promoting independence.
At Cornerstone Caregiving, we believe care goes beyond tasks—it’s about building meaningful relationships and becoming a trusted extension of the family. We are deeply rooted in the Rutland community and are passionate about connecting with local organizations, families, and healthcare partners to ensure a seamless, supportive care experience.
With a focus on reliability, respect, and genuine compassion, Cornerstone Caregiving is honored to serve as a trusted resource for families navigating care for their loved ones. Call 802-712-0550 for more information.
ICO Electric LLC - When it comes to dependable home electrical work, homeowners can count on ICO Electric LLC for safe, efficient, and professional service. Based in North Clarendon, VT, and specializing in reliable residential electrical solutions, their team handles everything from troubleshooting and repairs to panel upgrades, lighting installations, and complete wiring for renovations or new construction. With a strong commitment to safety, quality workmanship, and clear communication, ICO Electric ensures every project is completed to the highest standards. Whether it’s a small fix or a major electrical upgrade, homeowners can trust their experienced electricians to keep their homes powered safely and running smoothly. ICO Electric LLC’s hours are very flexible, with availability during weekdays, weekends, and evenings. There is no extra charge for weekend and evening work, and no project is too small. Please contact Ian at 802-779-6790 or by email at Ico.electric@outlook.com.
Stormwise Roofing - Stormwise Pro is your trusted local roofer providing high-quality residential solutions across Rutland County, VT. With over 15 years of experience, we are the go-to Vermont roofer for homeowners who need durable results and clear communication.
As a full-service roofer, we specialize in:
Roof Replacement: Expert installation of asphalt shingle, metal, and flat roofing systems.
Roof Repair: Fast, reliable service for leaks, missing shingles, and flashing replacement.
Storm damage: Specialized emergency repairs to protect your home from Vermont’s harsh weather.
In addition to our work as a roofer, Stormwise Pro provides comprehensive exterior services to protect your home:
Gutter Services: Professional gutter installation and repair to ensure proper drainage and foundation protection.
Siding Installation: Quality vinyl and exterior siding solutions to improve energy efficiency and curb appeal.
Waterproofing: Advanced waterproofing solutions designed to shield your property from the elements.
Whether you need a small leak patched by a professional roofer or a complete exterior renovation, we deliver the reliable workmanship you expect from a top-tier Rutland County roofer.
Highlights
- Expert residential roofer specializing in full roof replacement.
- Skilled deck builder and deck repair services for all Rutland County residential properties.
- Expert siding installation and exterior siding services for all Rutland County residential properties.
- Professional gutter installation and gutter service for all Rutland County residential properties.
- Expert chimney services including flashing repair and maintenance for all Rutland County residential properties.
CEDRR Would Like to Thank the Following Businesses for Renewing Their Membership:
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The Paramount Theatre's recently updated first-floor lobby and Box Office area
The Paramount Theatre: Behind the Scenes and Beyond the Stage
For decades, the Paramount Theatre has been a place where people come together - to enjoy performances, celebrate milestones, learn, and connect with one another. It’s more than a theatre; it’s a community hub, and every day we are reminded of the vital role it plays in our city.
Over the past year, we’ve undertaken a significant transformation. The first phase of our project is complete, and the changes are already remarkable. Our lobbies are now brighter and more spacious, making it easier for audiences to gather before shows. Additional restrooms improve comfort, while enhanced concessions and a new elevator ensure accessibility for everyone. These updates make the Paramount more welcoming, more functional, and more reflective of our role as a cultural centerpiece.
Looking ahead, we’re preparing to bring the next phase of the project to life. The upper floors of the Richardson Building will become a new intimate performance and event venue, designed to host smaller shows, educational programs, private gatherings, and community events. This space will allow us to expand the ways we serve our community, giving more people opportunities to experience the arts, connect with each other, and celebrate together.
Beyond the stage, the Paramount is an engine for our community. Annually, we contribute nearly $3 million to the Rutland economy, supporting local businesses and energizing downtown life. From student field trips to live concerts, community meetings to private celebrations, every year we see the profound impact that the Paramount has on the cultural and economic vitality of our city.
As we look to the future, we’re inspired by what’s possible. The work we’ve completed and the plans ahead ensure that the Paramount will continue to be a beacon for the arts, a gathering place for the community, and a source of pride for Rutland for generations to come. Every performance, every event, and every connection reminds this team why we do this work - and why the Paramount will always be at the heart of our community. - Eric Mallette, Executive Director, The Paramount Theatre
In-progress renovations of the Paramount Theatre's third floor
The role of the Paramount Theatre in strengthening regional economy is extraordinarily impactful. The theatre serves as a foundational institution for supporting the area’s creative sector and diversifies the experiences available in Rutland City for visitors and residents alike.
From historic restoration to increased placemaking on Center Street, improvements at the Paramount Theater are catalyzing revitalization in Rutland City and providing leverage for other investments such as the Downtown Hotel project, new city apartments, and investments in municipal infrastructure. Rutland City is demonstrating an ability to leverage creative sector assets to compliment other economic and community development initiatives – and the Paramount Theatre is at the heart of it. - Sarah Pelkey, Director of Economic Development, Chamber & Economic Development of the Rutland Region
To learn more about The Paramount Theatre and get tickets for their ever-growing list of events, visit paramountvt.org.
Learn more about the Paramount Theatre →
Spring Lake Ranch Completes $4.5MM Renovation
and Seeks Funding for Additional Projects
In 1932, Wayne and Elizabeth Sarcka opened Spring Lake Ranch (SLR) Therapeutic Community, a residential treatment facility for adults experiencing mental health challenges. Ninety-three years later, significant renovations were completed on the original farmhouse—known as Elizabeth House—thanks to early donors to SLR’s $18MM Capital Campaign.
“We’re expanding and updating our infrastructure to provide the best care,” says Executive Director Rachel Stark, “while also staying true to the deep-rooted origins of what the Sarckas created. We’re at a critical moment and we’ve got to expand to meet the growing need for care.”
According to the Department of Health and Human Services’ most recent survey, nearly one-in-four Americans is experiencing mental illness. At the same time, the country is seeing a shortage of beds and a focus on short-term treatment modalities.
Stark says the Ranch offers something different. Stays average seven-to-nine months, though residents often stay for more than a year. SLR’s approach combines robust psychiatric care with a distinctive agricultural work program. Each day is structured around farming, gardening, woodworking, cooking, crafting, and forestry. Residents choose a specialty and work side-by-side with their clinicians and other support staff to accomplish their goals.
“We’ve been doing long-term, community-centered care for nearly one hundred years,” says Stark, “and we’ve never had a capital campaign of this size. Now is the time.”
Elizabeth House renovations concluded this winter. Among other improvements, the project doubled the square footage of the existing building, adding new apartments, an expanded dining space, a new commercial kitchen, and a teaching kitchen where residents will practice cooking skills using produce from the garden.
Construction is ongoing for the new Banks Transitional Living Program at Spring Lake Ranch—a micro-neighborhood in the heart of campus that will provide a vital step for residents transitioning from the core Ranch Program toward independent living.
Three additional projects are still looking for funding—a renovation of the gymnasium, Farm Program barn upgrades, and a sustainability initiative to address both the changing climate and SLR’s long-term self-sufficiency.
“With just one year left to raise the remaining three million, we’re asking for everyone’s help to cross the finish line,” says Rose McCracken, Development & Communications Director and Chair of the Capital Campaign Committee. “This is not just about the future of the Ranch. It’s also about creating a world where people experiencing mental illness and substance use can thrive.”
“Mental health touches everyone,” says Stark. “When our residents leave the Ranch, they are returning to families, friends, workplaces, schools, and communities. Reaching our goal in this campaign will help us send them off to their next steps as the best version of themselves—and that benefits all of us.”
Donations can be made at springlakeranch.org/capitalcampaign. For questions, contact Rose McCracken, Development & Communications Director: rosem@springlakeranch.org, (802) 772-8342.
Senator Sanders' Portal for Congressionally Directed Spending is Open
Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders' portal for submitting FY27 Congressionally Directed Spending (CDS) requests is open. The deadline for submitting applications is Monday, March 30, 2026, at 5:00PM. You may fill out an appropriations request application here.
Past projects have had a significant impact across a wide range of issues, including child care, affordable housing, sustainable energy, health and dental care, and infrastructure.
Please note, earlier communications from Senator Sanders' office had a later deadline listed, but the submission date was moved up to ensure that requests can be submitted to the Senate Appropriations Committee on time.
Don't Miss Out on the Chance to Advertise in the Real Rutland Regional Map
A new full-color Real Rutland Map of Rutland County is currently in production by the Chamber & Economic Development of the Rutland Region (CEDRR) for the first time in over three years. We are once again partnering with The Mountain Times to produce and print the map, which will highlight the beauty and growth of Rutland County.
The Real Rutland Map is a valuable tool for sharing information about local businesses and organizations with residents and visitors. 10,000 copies are produced and CEDRR distributes these maps widely throughout the community - and includes them in information packets sent to individuals and families considering relocating to Rutland County.
If you are interested in purchasing an ad, email Dominique@RutlandEconomy.com or call (802) 773-8009. The deadline for ad submissions is April 17th.
The Hub CoWorks Continues its Focus to Support Downtown Rutland
Note: The following is an excerpt from CEDRR's monthly column in the Rutland Herald.
Located in the historic Opera House building in the heart of downtown Rutland, The Hub CoWorks has spent the last three years strengthening its role as a center for collaboration, innovation and entrepreneurship in southern Vermont. A public-private partnership between the Chamber & Economic Development of the Rutland Region (CEDRR) and MKF Properties, The Hub offers both flexible and fixed work environments to support freelancers, remote workers, startups, and established businesses seeking professional solutions.
The facility provides a range of membership options, from half-day hot desk passes to an annual membership at significant savings when paying up front. Members may also choose a dedicated desk, with access to a filing cabinet, or one of 13 private offices throughout the 24,000-square-foot space. Members and visitors have access to high-speed fiber internet, telecom rooms for virtual meetings, and a shared café with coffee, tea, water and more. The Hub serves to create a comfortable and productive working environment, whether someone is working in the space full-time, or just visiting Rutland for the day.
In addition to fixed offices and flexible desk options, the Opera House Community Workspace features five studios, where artists and tradespeople can rent a space for an initial three-month term. These well-lit studios are separated from the main space by large glass windows, offering visibility while also maintaining privacy. Two recent additions are Vermont Luxury Bridal and Beauty and Elegant Edge Beauty, bridal stylists who use the studios to conduct hair and makeup trials with brides in the off-season, before traveling to venues across New England during the busy wedding season. Fabric artists and photographers have also used these studios in the past. With short lease terms, the studios are intended to serve as a stepping stone to a more permanent studio space.
The Hub features five conference rooms, regularly used by local nonprofit organizations, prominent employers, and state entities for board meetings, training sessions, press conferences, and more. From the Opera House Conference Room, which can comfortably seat 10 people, to the Streetside Conference Room on the ground floor, which can accommodate as many as 75, The Hub CoWorks offers meeting options designed with connection in mind. Most rooms have screens that easily connect to a laptop for sharing presentations and welcoming hybrid attendees to join a session from afar.
Upcoming Events at The MINT Makerspace
At The MINT, we welcome folks of all ages and orientations to gather, make, play, and build community.
We are so excited to highlight our classes we have upcoming for the next few weeks.
Pottery Intro Bootcamp
Class date: Starts April 18th
New to the wheel or need a refresher? This class is perfect for pottery beginners looking to learn a new skill and create something beautiful!
Mosaic Tables
Class date: Starts April 8th
In this introductory 3-session course, you’ll explore the art of creating mosaic tabletops. We will be using glass and ceramics to mosaic a round table top which also acts as a tray.
The Chamber & Economic Development of the Rutland Region's Career Hub features full-time jobs across Rutland County that provide a salary higher than the Vermont living wage.
Coordinator of Instruction
Rutland City Public Schools is seeking a Coordinator of Instruction to join their team.
Project Development Assistant
Cornerstone Housing Partners is seeking a Project Development Assistant to join their team.
Treatment Court Care Manager
Community Care Network is seeking a Treatment Court Care Manager to join their team.
View Rutland County career opportunities & post your position →
Timber Framing 101 Workshop
Merck Forest & Farmland Center
3270 VT-315, Rupert, VT 05768, USA
Friday, April 24, 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Saturday, April 25, 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Over two full days in Merck Forest's timber frame shop, you'll learn to read timber frame plans, handle traditional tools with confidence, and cut joinery, including mortises and tenons, using green wood harvested here. You'll build a mailbox post to take home. Each post is unique, shaped by the timber's natural character. Explore the Merck Forest landscape and see how thoughtful timber harvesting supports both skilled craft and a healthy forest. Whether you're drawn to traditional building, woodworking, or simply want to get your hands on the tools and materials, this course offers a grounded, memorable introduction to an enduring building tradition.
Sound Bath Fundraiser
Pyramid Holistic Wellness Center
120 Merchants Row, Rutland, VT 05701
Saturday, March 28, 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
This sound bath will utilize drum, ocean drum, chimes and crystal singing bowls to lull you into a deep state of relaxation therapy, reducing your stress level. $25 per person - all proceeds benefit the American Cancer Society's Bark for Life of Rutland County.
Learn More About CEDRR Offerings
