HERMISTON, Ore.-The Hermiston City Council approved resolutions relating to the construction of two RV parks at the Eastern Oregon Trade and Event Center (EOTEC) at its regular meeting on January 26.
The two items concerned amendments to the comprehensive plan, zoning map and annexation of about 20 acres on E. Airport Road for an RV park, and the awarding of a contract for the construction of an RV park on the EOTEC Campus.
According to the City, the two-site approach will allow for a balance between workforce housing needs and maintaining RV capacity for high-traffic events that draw visitors to Hermiston and Umatilla County, such as the County Fair.
The total RV spaces are split between two areas, known as RV South (along Airport Road) and RV North (along Ott Road). Amazon Web Services has agreed to pay $8 million to construct the RV spaces, in return for 100 spaces guaranteed for its workers.
“The RV South area, along Airport Road will be reserved for long-term stays, including AWS construction workers,” said Hermiston Assistant City Manager Mark Morgan. “The workers would still pay for their rent of the spaces.”
Farm-City Pro Rodeo is the current owner of the property at 1835 E. Airport Road and has authorized the City of Hermiston to move forward with annexation to develop an RV park in support of EOTEC and the community on the property.
When annexed into the city, the area can connect to municipal services, and grant-funded development can move forward, according to the City.
Hermiston City Council also approved awarding a construction contract for the “North RV Park” along OTT Road on the EOTEC campus to the lowest possible bidder, following review of all bid submissions.
“The RV North area along Ott Road will primarily be for serving event-related needs for events using the EOTEC,” said Morgan.
While Amazon is funding the project, the City of Hermiston will own and operate both RV parks.
The full Hermiston City Council meeting agenda and staff reports are available online.
