EDCO Announces Approval of Large Lot Into Madras UGB for Industrial Development

EDCO ANNOUNCES APPROVAL OF LARGE LOT INTO MADRAS UGB FOR INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT

196-acre Site Set to Boost Industrial Growth and Attract High-Tech Industries

Madras, Ore. – June 4, 2025 – Economic Development for Central Oregon (EDCO) is excited to announce that the City of Madras has received approval to add a 196-acre site into the Madras Urban Growth Boundary (UGB) for future industrial use. The approval, which was granted by the Oregon Department of Land Conservation and Development, enhances Madras’ potential for economic growth.

This project was the result of a collaboration between Jefferson County officials, the City of Madras, EDCO, and community and business leaders who recognize the importance of adding large industrial parcels to the City’s inventory to provide opportunities for significant economic development growth.  This project offers an opportunity for private investment to purchase and develop 196 acres of industrial-zoned property, providing opportunities beyond the current lease-only options on the Madras Municipal Airport property.

Brenna Fulks, Jefferson County Director at EDCO, expressed that she is “Excited about the opportunities this annexation brings for regional growth. Adding this large lot to our industrial land inventory strengthens our position to compete for high-tech and clean-tech manufacturers. It is a strategic move that enhances our ability to attract investment and drive long-term economic development across Jefferson County and the City of Madras.”

The site’s strategic location, near the Madras Municipal Airport, provides easy access to essential infrastructure for development and is situated adjacent to existing industrial areas.

Jefferson County Commissioner Mark Wunsch emphasized the significance of this development, stating, “This project aligns with our vision for economic advancement in Jefferson County. Having a large, available site will attract businesses that can create sustainable jobs and invigorate our local economy.”

This site is poised for 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. Nick Snead, Madras Community Development Director, added, “This site was carefully selected to ensure industrial use.”

The City of Madras and its partners have begun further infrastructure planning to identify specific industry needs for development within the sites of the Large Lot Industrial Program and vacant industrial land. This project will strengthen the City of Madras and Jefferson County's competitive edge in attracting businesses and supporting economic growth by offering a large parcel for sale and development, with many of the necessary infrastructure needs already identified. The site will be reserved for large-scale industrial development in the long term. It is anticipated that this site will create more jobs, diversify the Madras economy and create additional benefits for the community.

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