As the Port begins work on updating its Strategic Business Plan (SBP), I want to encourage the public to participate in what will be one of the most important planning efforts the Port has undertaken in many years.

Public ports in Oregon are required to periodically update their Strategic Business Plans to help guide long-term investments, economic development, infrastructure planning, and financial sustainability. The Port of Hood River last adopted a full SBP in 2021, and much has changed since then.

Over the next several months, the Port Commission and staff will be working with consultants, stakeholders, businesses, tenants, and the broader public to help shape the Port’s direction for the next decade. The process will include community surveys, public workshops, open houses, Commission discussions, and opportunities for written comment. We hope people participate and share ideas about the future of the waterfront, airport, parks, commercial properties, transportation, and economic development throughout the district.

The timing of this update is especially important. As many in the community know, the Port is entering a major transition as the Hood River-White Salmon Bridge replacement moves forward. Historically, bridge toll revenue helped subsidize operations in areas such as the airport, parks, and waterfront recreation facilities. As the Port transitions away from that funding model, we must continue building a more self-sustaining organization.

That means thoughtfully pursuing property development, business growth, land leases, and other revenue-producing opportunities that will allow the Port to continue investing in public amenities and recreational facilities that the community values. In many ways, responsible economic development is what will help preserve and improve public access to the waterfront, parks, trails, and open spaces in the future.

The Commission has emphasized that safety, transparency, fiscal stewardship, and public engagement remain top priorities throughout this process. The Port has been part of the fabric of the Columbia Gorge for more than 100 years, and this Strategic Business Plan update will help shape what the next chapter looks like.

We look forward to hearing from you and encourage everyone to stay involved as the process moves forward.