Staff report
The MINT – Rutland’s Makerspace has a new dividing wall, True Yoga Vermont in Rutland has a new yoga studio and Fair Haven is getting a new brewery with the help of state Regional Economic Development grants.
True Yoga received a $5,000 matching grant toward the $10,000 project while the Mint received $10,000 for the $24,000 project and Scotch Hill Brewing received $19,000 toward the $46,000 purchase of a two vessel brewhouse at 71 Main St.
The grants were administered by the Vermont Department of Buildings and General Services and awarded by a committee. They are open to municipalities and non-profit organizations for capital costs associated with the development of facilities to create job opportunities.
Fifteen of the 20 businesses and organizations that applied for grants were awarded funds totaling $200,000.
“It was really exciting to be awarded because a lot of people applied for it,” said True Yoga owner Liz Patnode.
Patnode moved her business from Mendon to Rutland last spring, purchasing the second floor of the 1890s Salvation Army building on Wales Street in Rutland.
Renovations to the second yoga room in the building started last fall. The outside of True Yoga was also painted and new artwork was added.
Patnode currently offers about 30 classes a week.
“Moving into the new year, we’re going to be expanding even more,” Patnode said.
Patnode said she’ll be able to offer different styles of yoga with the new room.
“It gives an easier overlap so people don’t feel like they’re being rushed in and out of the same room,” she said.
Meanwhile, the owners of Scotch Hill Brewing Company have been trying to bring a brewery to Fair Haven for the past four years but have had permitting challenges. They hope to open at the start of the year.
Rutland Economic Development Corporation Assistant Director Kim Rupe said the Mint’s dividing wall will separate the technology area from the woodworking area. All of the grants awarded will expand opportunities in the Rutland region.
“It will create more wellness opportunities for the people in our region and provide job opportunities in the area,” said Rupe.
