Keith Vandervort ELY – The city of Ely received approval late last week for three community and development infrastructure grants from the Minnesota Department of Iron Range Resources and Rehabilitation (IRRR). Two development infrastructure grants include an expansion project at the Boathouse Brewpub and Restaurant and renovation of the former Shopko building by Zup’s Market, and the third grant is a match for funds dedicated to the first phase of the Prospector Loop ATV Trail. In all more than $650,000 will be coming to Ely this year from IRRR. The Ely Boathouse Brewpub and Restaurant, one of the few eating establishments in the city to not only survive but thrive during the coronavirus pandemic restraints, is completing a $550,000 expansion project that will more than double their seating capacity on the second floor. The expansion requires the installation of a sprinkler system in the landmark building that was built in 1905.