A ribbon cutting ceremony is scheduled for Thursday to mark the opening of a new community building in Malden, aimed at supporting the town’s recovery following the 2020 firestorm.

The firestorm, which occurred on Labor Day five years ago, resulted in significant destruction in Malden and nearby Pine City, including the loss of the local library, food bank, and community center. The new community building will house these facilities and features an outdoor amphitheater. Funding for the project was provided through grants from FEMA and Whitman County, along with a donation from an anonymous source.

The Pine Creek Community Restoration Long Term Recovery Organization is welcoming the public to the celebration, which will take place at 11:00 AM at the new community building located on Broadway Avenue. Attendees will also have the opportunity to explore the new Palouse-to-Cascades Trailhead in Malden and a recently installed playground.