Klamath County anticipates $260 million investment and 300 jobs from Project 310

Klamath County is poised for a significant economic boost in 2025, with an anticipated investment of approximately $260 million expected to create around 300 jobs. Dubbed "Project 310," this initiative has garnered attention not only for its scale but also for its rapid development, completed in just six to seven months with local subcontractors leading the charge.

The project, which involves a $20 million investment, has seen contributions from various local companies, including RMC, Atkins Engineering, and Knife River. The swift progress has even impressed Amazon, highlighting the project's potential impact on the local economy.

In addition to job creation, the meeting underscored the pressing need for housing in Klamath County. A 2019 housing assessment indicated a requirement for 600 homes over the next two decades, a figure that has since been revised to 6,000 homes. Current construction efforts include 10 homes by Bates and 20 homes funded by the KRF fund, with plans for an additional 159 homes over the next three years.

The latest housing needs analysis reveals a diverse range of income levels required for new homes, with a significant demand for properties priced above 120% of the area median income. This broad spectrum is promising for the county's economic landscape, as it aligns with recent wage growth trends.

As Klamath County moves forward, the focus will remain on addressing housing shortages while capitalizing on the momentum generated by Project 310 and other local developments. The next meeting will delve deeper into wage growth and its implications for the community.