Richardton breaks ground on new daycare center to bolster local workforce – The Dickinson Press

RICHARDTON, N.D. – Richardton Development Company broke ground today on a new child care center, a project funded by the North Dakota Regional Workforce Impact Program (RWIP). The initiative aims to address the region’s critical workforce challenges by expanding child care options for working families.

Governor Tammy Miller gave opening remarks, emphasizing the project’s importance to local economic growth and supporting families. “High-quality child care is critical to attracting and retaining a qualified workforce,” Miller said.

Miller, who took office as North Dakota’s 39th lieutenant governor on January 3, 2023 after being appointed by Gov. Doug Burgum, added: “Child care is workforce infrastructure – today we are laying the foundation for a better future.”

The new facility will care for around 38 children and provide vital support to working parents in Richardton. This is in line with RWIP’s goal of promoting regional solutions and innovative approaches to the challenges of the world of work.

Ambrose Hoff of the Richardton Development Company, a nonprofit organization founded in 1968, thanked the project’s key contributors, including the Lions Club, Richardton Fire Department, Choice Bank and Dakota Community Bank.

The facility is expected to open in the spring and will provide vital support to local families while strengthening the workforce in Richardton.

The North Dakota Regional Workforce Impact Program aims to address workforce and skills gaps across the state. The program provides grants to regional economic and workforce development organizations to fund impactful local projects.

Key elements of RWIP include:

• Regional Focus: Tailored solutions to meet the unique needs of different areas in North Dakota.
• Collaboration: Fostering partnerships between local businesses, educational institutions and workforce development organizations.
• Sustainable funding: Supporting both immediate and long-term workforce initiatives through grants.

RWIP has already funded successful projects, such as the City of Alexander’s new child care facility, built with a $500,000 grant to care for 70 children. The Divide County Economic Development Council also received $72,000 for a marketing campaign to attract new residents and workers.

The new child care center in Richardton represents a significant step forward for the community, providing vital support to families and helping to support a thriving local workforce.

LeAnn Stasiowski/The Dickinson Press

LeAnn M. Stasiowski is a Community Pulse reporter for The Dickinson Press, covering educational, business and cultural events. It profiles local businesses and entrepreneurs, reports on economic trends and educational developments, and highlights arts, entertainment and gastronomy in the region. From attending school board meetings to covering local festivals and restaurants, LeAnn provides comprehensive coverage that celebrates and informs the community.