The city of Madras has received approval to bring a 196-acre site inside the urban growth boundary for future industrial use, the Economic Development for Central Oregon (EDCO) announced Wednesday. The OK, granted by the Oregon Department of Land Conservation and Development, enhances Madras’ potential for economic growth, according to EDCO.

The collaborative effort to gain approval featured officials representing Jefferson County, the city of Madras and EDCO as well as business leaders and community members. Private investors will now be able to purchase and develop 196 acres of industrial property, thus presenting opportunities beyond the current lease-only options on the Madras Municipal Airport property, a press release states.

The site’s strategic location is adjacent to existing industrial areas near the Madras Municipal Airport. There will be easy access to essential infrastructure for development.

The site is poised to suit a variety of future uses, including high-tech and clean-tech manufacturing, advanced manufacturing, and IT infrastructure. The development of this site is anticipated to result in job creation and investment opportunities observed in nearby areas such as Prineville and Redmond, the press release states.

The city of Madras and its partners have begun planning to identify specific industry needs for development within the sites of the Large Lot Industrial Program and vacant industrial land, according to EDCO. The site will be reserved for large-scale industrial development in the long term.

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