Tieton, Washington is a small community that is in the beginning stages of a rebirth thanks to Ed Marquand and his vision for this community.
The town of Tieton is only about 15 minutes from Yakima, and less than three hours from either Seattle or Portland. It used to be a bustling agricultural/fruit area, but in recent years has declined. Many businesses were boarded up when Mr. Marquand first came through town. The story has been repeated many times... he was on a bike ride through the area and ran over some goatheads which flattened his tires. He stopped at the town square, a grassy, well-kept area in the center of town, to make repairs before moving on. It was here that he had his vision for the town.
He envisions a community of artisan businesses and hospitality enterprises that will be recognized for the creative and imaginative ventures of it's residents. He calls this vision "Mighty Tieton".
(For more info visit the website, www.mightytieton.com )
Several projects have already been started, some completed. A fruit warehouse has been converted into live/work lofts, another warehouse is headquarters for a letterpress print shop and artist studios. A church that was abandoned has been converted to a community events center called Harvest Hall. Anyone interested in investing in the development of a small inn and tavern can contact mtieton@yahoo.com.
Real estate is still very affordable and there is a ready work force in the area. Average price for residential property is between $175,000 and $275,000.
Homes currently listed in Tieton range from $89,000 for a 1 bedroom home with workshop on half an acre (see photo, left) to a $735,000 horse ranch. Land starts at $35,000.
Search for Tieton real estate at www.shannondrew.com.
The opportunities are wide open for artists of all kinds in this town. Consider being a part of it's future.
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