Port plans for future industrial growth

With most of a future industrial park building pre-leased in Washougal, Port of Camas-Washougal officials are optimistic enough to already be talking about the construction of another structure in the Steigerwald Commerce Center.

Building 18, expected to open by this summer at 4060 S. Grant St., will house Panther RV Products (13,200 square feet) and iFillCup (9,900 square feet).

Port Executive Director David Ripp said he is working with another company interested in leasing 13,200 square feet of Building 18. If that lease is presented to and approved by Port commissioners, there would be four bays, 13,200 square feet, remaining available.

The Port’s goal is to have at least 100 people working for the companies in the 49,500-square foot Building 18, and 40 to 50 workers in the 25,000-square foot Building 19.

The cost of engineering Building 19 in 2019 is estimated to be $275,000, and construction in 2020 could cost $2.72 million, according to information presented during a Port commission strategic and capital planning retreat Feb. 23.

Ripp said based on past experience and demand, he and other Port officials feel confident there will be interest in leasing spaces in Building 19.

“Also, the Port wants to have some inventory available for future growth for current and new businesses,” he said.

Thirty-three acres are available to lease, and six acres can be purchased in the Steigerwald Commerce Center.