Winterbrook Planning has been supporting the City of Hermiston in preparing for its next chapter of economic growth. In response to findings from the 2024 Economic Opportunities Analysis, Hermiston identified a shortage of large industrial parcels suitable for hyperscale data centers. To meet this need, Winterbrook worked with the City to craft a comprehensive plan and code amendment package that enables a strategic expansion of the Urban Growth Boundary (UGB), which received City Council approval this week. The proposal will next go before Umatilla County and the Land Conservation and Development Commission (LCDC) before adoption.

Our work included a Goal 14 UGB Expansion Priorities Analysis to determine the most appropriate expansion area, along with updates to the Hermiston Comprehensive Plan and Map, including a revised Public Facilities Plan. We also prepared amendments to the Hermiston Land Usage Ordinance to create zoning tailored for hyperscale data centers, paving the way for the development of five new sites.

This collaborative effort also involved key partners: Anderson Perry and Associates and Kittelson and Associates provided essential public facilities and transportation studies, while Mackenzie developed a conceptual master plan for the expansion area. Winterbrook met with DLCD staff to review the proposed expansion, supported the City’s public involvement efforts, and presented at both City and County hearings.

Together, these steps lay the groundwork for Hermiston to attract and accommodate major technology investments, while ensuring that the city’s infrastructure and planning framework are ready to support long-term economic growth.