JJ Castro lost his home, tools and family memories in the Rowena Fire. Now, with planning help and new rules coming, he’s pouring foundations of hope — rebuilding for his wife and children, his future, his community. The Gorge Commission’s recent vote intends to clear red tape so families like his can come home faster.

The Dalles City Council could take the next steps in bringing the Federal Street Plaza to fruition in the downtown business district as leaders look to build pedestrian and tourism traffic and bolster the local economy.

Architect Chris Hodney has requested that the City of The Dalles allow three lots at the former Griffith Motors buildings at 523 E. Third Street to be consolidated to construct “a new five-story, multifamily, mixed-use development.”