Bus tour puts focus on development property

By Shannon Wells

The Gresham Outlook, Dec 5, 2009

Jim Clark / The Outlook

Paul Brewer of Colliers International Realtors talks to local dignitaries about the former Merix Corp. building in Wood Village on Friday, Dec. 4.

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What appeared to be a standard-issue tour bus transformed, on Friday, Dec. 4, into a portal to East County’s economic past and future.

David Eatwell, economic development director of the West Columbia Gorge Chamber of Commerce, led 24 local dignitaries and state officials on the inaugural “Magical Industry Tour.”

Sponsored by the West Columbia Gorge Economic Development Consortium, the afternoon bus journey led mayors, city councilors and economic development leaders to development-ready properties and buildings in Troutdale, Fairview and Wood Village.

While absorbing statistics and asking pertinent questions, participants toured 11 sites. They ranged from the sprawling new FedEx Ground building at the fledgling Troutdale-Reynolds Industrial Park to the empty shell of the former Merix Corp. facility in Wood Village.

Concentrated primarily along the district bordered by Sandy Boulevard and Marine Drive, the sites revealed an area still transitioning from berry farms and 20th century industrial plants to the efficient anonymity of warehouses and technology-based commerce.

While touring the Birtcher Center at Townsend Business Park in Fairview, Troutdale Councilor Glenn White said he appreciated the concentrated examination of his own virtual backyard.

“It’s been pretty informative,” he said. “It really helps to get a visual of these projects. It’s amazing this property hasn’t been developed.”