FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
For more information contact:
PORT OF CENTRALIA
Kyle Heaton, Executive Director
Phone: (360) 736-3527
Email: [email protected]
Port of Centralia Study Projects Over $1 Billion in Regional Economic Activity by 2026
New analysis shows industrial parks driving job creation, higher wages, and millions in tax revenues.
Centralia, Wash. — The Port of Centralia has released its Revised Economic Contributions and Fiscal Impacts of the Port of Centralia’s Industrial Parks study, conducted by independent consulting firm ECOnorthwest. The report underscores the Port’s vital role in driving economic growth and community development across Lewis and Thurston Counties.
According to the study, by 2026, businesses operating within the Port’s three industrial parks are projected to directly employ approximately 3,145 workers, generating $239 million in wages and benefits. Including indirect and induced employment, the total job impact is expected to reach 4,821 positions. Downtown Centralia is estimated to support nearly 1,000 jobs, including proprietors.
In addition, the new Logistics Property Co. development is forecast to contribute another 761 jobs upon completion.
ECOnorthwest found a minimal gap between the annual wages of warehousing and manufacturing jobs and noted that manufacturing jobs are increasingly declining due to automation and the use of artificial intelligence.
The surge in employment within the Port’s industrial parks has played a key role in reducing Lewis County’s historically high unemployment rate in comparison to the Washington State average.
The report also highlights significant economic output, with the Port’s industrial parks projected to generate $691 million in direct business activity and over $1 billion in total economic impact. Labor income across the region is expected to exceed $357 million. Downtown Centralia is anticipated to contribute $155 million in direct output and $223 million in total economic activity.
On the fiscal side, the Port’s industrial parks are forecast to generate $27.3 million in state and local tax revenue in 2026, compared to $8.7 million from downtown Centralia. These revenues support essential public services, including education, infrastructure, and municipal operations.
“The Port of Centralia’s industrial parks are driving regional prosperity, creating high-quality jobs, and providing the tax revenues needed to fund schools, infrastructure, and essential public services,” said Port Commissioner Julie Shaffley. “This study confirms the Port’s ongoing role as a cornerstone of economic growth in Lewis County and beyond.”
To view a copy of the Revised Economic Contributions and Fiscal Impacts of the Port of Centralia’s Industrial Parks study, please visit www.portofcentralia.com.
Founded in 1986, the Port of Centralia is one of the fastest-growing ports in Washington State, managing three industrial parks that host a diverse range of businesses, from manufacturing to logistics to retail. The Port’s over 30 tenants include WinCo Foods, Sierra Pacific Industries, Walmart, UNFI and Dick’s Brewing Company.
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