The City of Kalama approves the Port’s plan to develop the multi-use facility which is expected to expand commercial land, attract new business, family wage jobs
(PRWEB) NOVEMBER 19, 2015
The City of Kalama Planning Commission has approved the Port of Kalama’s Master Plan to develop 70 acres of Port property to make way for the anticipated Spencer Creek Business Park. The City and Port together earned the 2014 Governor’s Smart Communities Award for their collaboration on planning the multi-use business property which is expected to boost the region’s available commercial property, economy and job opportunities while strengthening the city’s revenue base.
The Spencer Creek Business Park will encompass about 70 acres (3 million square feet) and over 500,000 square feet of space when built-out. The mix of light industrial, office, commercial and retail uses is a boon for a region lacking in developable land. The proposed site uses may include:
- Office/flex
- Light industrial
- Commercial/retail
- Hotel
- Convenience store
- Dining
The Port of Kalama and City of Kalama, who worked together to craft a new City Code to enable the flexible, multipurpose development, will collaborate now on the permitting processes for developing the site infrastructure. An economic evaluation is pending to develop the facility in order to create jobs and local revenue in an environmentally responsible fashion.
“This annexation offers terrific benefits to the city and our residents as it expands Kalama’s tax base. We can expect a substantial economic impact and additional funds for important city projects going forward,” said Mayor Pete Poulsen, City of Kalama. “This partnership between the City and the Port is an excellent example of what can be accomplished with a shared common vision for the future of this fine community.”
The Port envisions a 20-year build-out that started with the creation of a regional recreational draw, Haydu Park. New business activity will significantly increase employment opportunities and add millions of dollars to local tax revenue rolls. “The City and the Port have worked together to create common planning goals for future development, and we’ve created a road map for establishing a vibrant mixed-use district,” continues Mayor Poulsen.
“The development of this business center—and expansion of neighboring recreational facilities at Haydu Park—support our strategy for economic growth in the Cowlitz region and position Kalama as a relocation destination for diverse industries,” says Randy Sweet, Commission President, Port of Kalama.
New Haydu Park scores big win for Kalama
The Port of Kalama recently completed the first phase of East Port development with the opening of Haydu Park, a 24 acre recreational facility. New baseball, soccer & softball fields, a horse riding arena, restrooms & concession stand, tennis courts, basketball courts, on-site parking, and an expo area available for reservations by the general public are just some of the premier features of Haydu Park. The facility also includes hiking trails and access to several thousand feet of Kalama River frontage.
“In addition to the new business park, the impact of the new Haydu Park cannot be understated for its impact in addressing Kalama’s need for additional sports and recreation space,” says Sweet. “And, with the increased space, sports clubs will have the facilities to host team tournaments from all over the region which will increase destination tourism and revenues to the area.”
About Spencer Creek Business Park
The 70-acre Spencer Creek Business Park, located north of Kalama River Road at exit 32 on Interstate-5, will accommodate a mix of light industrial, retail, commercial, and professional office users. The Spencer Creek Business Park Master Plan envisions 1) Commercial and retail, 2) Light industrial and 3) Professional business office uses. Site preparation activities are expected to begin in late 2015.
The Port, which develops first-rate commercial, business, industrial and recreational facilities, began acquiring property east of Interstate 5 approximately 15 years ago. Prior steps in this multi-year, collaborative effort include the successful annexation of the 357-acre “East Port” area into City boundaries and approval by the City of a new zoning code and master development agreement. In addition, numerous studies have been conducted, including economic, environmental, engineering, cultural and floodplain analyses. The Port envisions a 20-year investment and build-out program that will result in the creation of a regional recreational draw and new business activity that will significantly increase employment opportunities and add millions of dollars to local tax revenue rolls. Through the adopted development agreement and zoning code, the City and the Port have set a high standard of quality for future development, and created the road map for establishing a vibrant mixed-use district.
