A comprehensive five-year economic development strategy for Benton County and three other counties in the region will be available for public review and comment beginning Friday and remaining open through Aug. 10.
The Cascades West Economic Development District has released its Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy for 2025-30, which covers Benton, Lane, Lincoln and Linn counties. The document serves as a roadmap for improving economic conditions and building regional resilience over the next five years.
“This economic development focused strategic plan outlines goals and actions for the region and is useful in applying for grant opportunities,” CWEDD said in a press release.
The strategy is designed to unlock funding for the four-county district and provide a foundation for various regional opportunities.
The CEDS identifies five priority areas with strategies aimed at building a more resilient and thriving region through investments in infrastructure, partnerships and economic development fundamentals.
CWEDD, designated by the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration, coordinates regionally significant economic development activities across the four counties. The organization is staffed through a partnership between the Oregon Cascades West Council of Governments and the Lane Council of Governments.
Officials emphasize the importance of community feedback in shaping the final document. The July 11 to Aug. 10 public comment period allows residents and stakeholders to ensure the plan reflects the region’s diverse needs and perspectives.
Comments can be submitted online using a Microsoft Forms link at bit.ly/CEDS-2025 or by emailing cketchum@ocwcog.org. Additional information about the strategy is available on the CEDS webpage at the Oregon Cascades West Council of Governments website.