Lighthouse receives grant from license plate program

Published 4:10 pm Wednesday, July 2, 2014

Sequim Gazette staff

The Lighthouse Environmental Programs, a Whidbey Island-based nonprofit organization that manages the “Lighthouse License Plates Keep Washington Shining” program, has awarded the New Dungeness Light Station Association a $6,000 grant for the Keeper’s House Front Porch Project.

This project involves replacing the decking and pillars of the front porch and is estimated to cost a total of $9,952. The remaining funds, about $4,000, will be self-funded by the association or through tax-free donations.

The Washington State Lighthouse License Program is funded through specialty “Lighthouse” plates that are purchased when obtaining or renewing Washington vehicle license plates. The cost is a bit more than a regular license plate but that portion of the fee is tax deductible. For each plate sold, the program receives $28. From that amount, 25 percent of the proceeds are used to annually fund grants to the eligible 12 nonprofit lighthouses and one lightship (the Swiftsure).

From 2009 through 2013, $125,000 in grants have been awarded for restoration and interpretive displays.

To be eligible, the lighthouse must be open to the public and have a volunteer organization.

The New Dungeness Light Station Association has received three other Lighthouse Environmental Programs grants: a sewage handling system, upgraded domestic water system, and barn gutters and drainage projects.

Association members say they are appreciative of this program and encourage all Washington residents to purchase the Lighthouse License Plate for their vehicles.

For more information on the association, go to www.newdungenesslighthouse.com.