Sen. Murray Applauds New Economic Opportunity for SW Washington

New federal manufacturing designation will help grow local industries and create jobs

(Washington, D.C.) –Today, Sen. Patty Murray (D-WA) applauded an announcement from the U.S. Department of Commerce that it has selected Southwest Washington & Oregon as one of twelve regions to receive long-term economic development assistance. The competitive designation, known as the “Investing in Manufacturing Communities Partnership,” or IMCP, qualifies the region for coordinated support from eleven federal agencies with a total of more than $1 billion available in economic development assistance.

The Pacific Northwest Partnership Region is led by Business Oregon and Southwest Washington, and encompasses the region from Vancouver, Washington, running south to Eugene, Oregon.

“This announcement is great news for Southwest Washington families and businesses as we all work to develop and grow our economy, and create jobs for local workers,” Senator Murray said. “The announcement is also a testament to the good work already taking place. I was proud to be a voice for the community as they worked to secure this manufacturing designation, and I look forward to continuing to champion Southwest Washington as it attracts the industries- and jobs- of the 21^st century economy.”

“The IMCP designation will help coordinate and streamline strategic efforts to advance the manufacturing sector in Oregon and Southwest Washington through the Pacific Northwest Manufacturing Partnership,” said Mike Bomar, President of Columbia River Economic Development Council (CREDC). “Never before have we had the opportunity to collaborate as closely with such a broad range of partners to strengthen opportunities for manufacturing job creation. We are thrilled to receive this designation, and want to extend a sincere thank you to Senator Murray as well as Senator Cantwell and Representative Herrera Beutler for their support of the coalition’s application and recognizing its importance for Southwest Washington and the region as a whole.” 

In today’s announcement, the U.S. Department of Commerce noted the region’s strong workforce, historic roots in the timber industry, supportive state and local government partners, and key links to university research institutions.

To learn more about the IMCP initiative, click here.