Port of Willapa Harbor Shares Busy Season Updates on Local Projects, Infrastructure, and Economic Development
RAYMOND, Wash. — The Port of Willapa Harbor is experiencing a bustling season, with Executive Director Amber Kaech sharing a comprehensive update on ongoing projects, facility enhancements, and economic development initiatives across the district.
From maritime infrastructure and commercial fishing support to tourism and community amenities, the Port remains dedicated to maintaining its facilities and fostering long-term growth for the local economy.
Facility improvements are currently underway at the South Bend Boat Shop, paired with vital environmental planning and grant-funded projects aimed at bolstering the local working waterfront and supporting maritime industries.
Navigable waterways have also seen a significant positive impact following the completion of the Tokeland Marina and Bay Center dredging cycle in July—supplemented by additional work from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers—which has directly supported commercial fishing communities. The Port is already gearing up for its next scheduled dredging window running from December through February.
At the Willapa Landing RV Park—formerly known as the Raymond RV Park, which was previously operated by Pedigree Catamaran under a 30-year lease that has since expired—the Port provided an extension to allow for the completion of outstanding projects and the transition of operations.
The Port is now in the early planning stages of improving and potentially expanding the park. Crucially, the Port has been awarded $225,000 in .09 economic development funding, beginning in 2027, with $75,000 allocated annually over three years. This funding will support phased improvements to existing infrastructure and amenities as the Port continues developing its long-term plans for the property.
Alongside smaller, ongoing facility improvements at the Tokeland Marina & RV Park, planning is underway for future capital upgrades to both marina infrastructure and visitor amenities to better serve commercial fishing, recreational boating, and regional tourism.
At Bendiksen Landing, the Port continues to support local businesses and waterfront activities while advancing environmental planning to pave the way for future site improvements and redevelopment opportunities. Meanwhile, efforts remain strong at the South Fork Business Park in collaborating with current tenants and prospective businesses alike, driving local job creation and ensuring the continued, vibrant use of Port facilities.
Additionally, the Port has officially relocated its administrative office to the adjacent Port-owned building located at 1725 Ocean Avenue in Raymond.
The previous office space was very limited and had become challenging for daily operations, staff, and public meetings. The relocation that began at the beginning of the month will allow the Port to better utilize existing property and provide a more functional workspace.
Kaech notes that while the physical office has moved, the phone number, mailing address, and business hours remain unchanged.