From the new Spencer Creek Business Park to a new building in the Kalama River Industrial Park, McMenamins locating here, and international businesses choosing Kalama as the perfect place to grow—all of these exist now thanks to years and years of contemplation, collaboration and diligent planning. Port predecessors worked thoughtfully for decades to plan and prepare for the regional success the region is now experiencing.
The Port continues the community’s history and pioneering vision of growing with purpose and intention—in ways that will benefit the entire region for decades to come. This vision brings with it thousands of jobs, revenue streams, economic vitality and opportunities for all who live in Cowlitz County.
Thanks to responsible planning over decades the Port enjoys a thriving recreational system with parks and playgrounds, a new sports complex, and popular riverfront, pathways and marina enhancements. All of these business and recreational assets improve the health, livability and economy here—and all without any Port-levied taxes.
Some examples of decades of Port planning manifesting in projects that will benefit the entire region include:
The North Port Heavy Industrial Site, which will be the home of the Kalama Manufacturing and Marine Export Facility, has been identified and developed to support such industry for over 20 years and through multiple Comprehensive Planning processes. Specifically, the plans have identified construction of a new wharf, installing roads and utilities, and developing a water system for industrial use
Spencer Creek Business Park: Economic assessments as early as the mid-1990s identified a future need for additional mixed-use development along I-5 and for additional recreational opportunities. The Port included this information in the Comprehensive Plan, and as suitable property became available, began purchasing and planning. The result is the current development which has begun at I-5 Exit 32 and includes Haydu Park and the Spencer Creek Business Park.
Next up: Discover! What is the Port’s business model—and how does it generate revenue?
