Posted on August 20, 2025
COOS BAY, Ore. — Legislators and business leaders in Coos County are hailing a historic $100 million investment in the Port of Coos Bay, a move expected to transform the region’s economy and create thousands of jobs.
The funding, approved by the Oregon State Legislature, will support channel modifications and infrastructure improvements at the port, allowing it to accommodate larger vessels and strengthen its role as a critical shipping hub. Upgrades to rail lines from Coos Bay to Eugene will streamline shipping to markets across the Midwest.
“This project reflects the kind of bold, future-focused investment that Oregon needs,” said Melissa Cribbins, Executive Director of the Pacific Coast Intermodal Port project. “For too long, rural communities like those on the South Coast have been left behind. This project gives us a path forward — grounded in good jobs, sustainable freight infrastructure, and long-term community stability.”
Rosey Thomas, Executive Director of the Oregon Bay Area Chamber of Commerce, said the PCIP project represents a major opportunity for the county.
“It’s an awesome project with unique bipartisan support from both administrations,” Thomas said. “This gives us opportunities for more Oregon products to get overseas… it could change the direction of our entire county. We need this kind of economic diversity.”
The Pacific Coast Intermodal Port, or PCIP, is a public-private partnership designed to create a modern ship-to-rail container terminal connecting Southwest Oregon to international markets. With the addition of federal funding already secured, the project is expected to generate more than 2,500 permanent direct jobs, 2,600 construction jobs, and up to 8,000 total jobs across construction, logistics, warehousing, and small business sectors once fully operational.
Lawmakers stressed that the $100 million investment is just the beginning.
“Supply chain infrastructure requires significant investment, but these projects benefit not just the present, but future generations,” Hoyle said.
With the PCIP project, Coos County leaders are aiming to create sustainable economic growth while ensuring transparency, community engagement, and environmental stewardship remain at the forefront of development.
