Lewiston Clarkston Valley Reports

Economy

Major employers in the area include Potlatch Forest Products (3000 employees), St. Joseph Regional Medical Center (854 employees), Blount Manufacturing (730 employees), Lewiston Independent School District (703 employees), Regence BlueShield of Idaho (480 employees) and Lewis-Clark State College (384 employees).

New businesses to the area have primarily built along the Thain Road Grade, where a large shopping development has gone in. Home Depot, Safeway, and Petco are among some of the large businesses that have recently come to the area, and a 12-screen cineplex and Walgreen’s are currently being built. Small local businesses continue to grow, with downtown Lewiston, 21st Street, and Thain Road being the primary locations.

Job cuts at Potlatch in recent years made for some economically unstable times, but we have weathered the storm and the area’s economy appears to be growing at a slow, but steady rate. With Lewiston and Clarkston being the shopping, dining, and entertainment center for many of the smaller towns in the surrounding areas, the economy is sure to continue its growth.

Schools

The Lewiston school district is made up of seven elementary schools, two junior high schools, one high school (the building of an additional high school is currently being discussed and planned), and an alternative learning center. In addition to these public schools, there are five small private schools. You can find additional information about these schools at the Lewiston School District site, as well as a national site that provides school stats.

Clarkston has four elementary schools, one middle school, one high school, and one small private school. You can find additional information about these schools at the Clarkston School District site, and a national site that provides school stats.

Higher Education

Lewiston is home to Lewis-Clark State College, which has over 2500 full time students enrolled. The school specializes in their education and nursing programs, and has a technical school that offers training in a variety of fields. There are many majors offered besides these areas of specialty.

Walla Walla Community College has a campus in Clarkston, and offers a variety of programs, including nursing and EMT training.

Just 40 minutes north of the area, Washington State University and the University of Idaho offer an even wider variety of courses and areas of study.

Medical

Lewiston and Clarkston have many medical facilities, including St. Joseph Regional Medical Center, Tri-State Hospital, Valley Medical Center, and many established and new specialty centers, including the new Lewiston Pain Clinic.

Crime

Residents in the Lewiston Clarkston area enjoy a relatively low crime-rate, which is why many people relocate here to raise their families or retire. Details about Lewiston’s crime rate can be obtained at the city website and national crime report site. Details about Clarkston’s crime rate can be obtained by calling the Clarkston City Hall at (509) 758-5541.