Port of Kalama outlines top projects for strategic plan

Port of Kalama commissioners Tuesday highlighted several major projects the port may begin in the next five years, including constructing a new building, purchasing property and developing Spencer Creek Business Park.

The commissioners discussed the projects during their annual strategic planning session during which they consider memberships, potential partnerships, operations and the capital budget.

The most expensive potential project on the list is the construction of a new building at the port’s Kalama River Industrial Park for an estimated $10.6 million. The port plans to design the building and move forward with construction in late 2020 if a business is interested in moving in, said Liz Newman, marketing and communication manager, in an email.

The commissioners also discussed:

• Developing additional roads and infrastructure at Spencer Creek Business Park. If a business signs on, the port could spend an estimated $3.5 million in the area in 2020.

• If Northwest Innovation Works’ methanol plant receives all approvals, the port will work on final design and construction of the wells, fire loop, and dock with for an estimated $3 million in 2020.

• Purchasing adjacent property in the South Port area for an estimated $2.5 million.

• Joining with other Pacific Northwest ports to purchase and operate a fiber optic network from Portland to British Columbia. If it moves forward in 2020, the estimated cost is $800,000.

• The next phase of the marina renovations, including replacing concrete docks, improving accessibility and providing an expanded visitor dock, for an estimated $750,000.