Oregon Lawmakers Weigh Expanding Urban Growth Boundary for Tech Jobs

Bill to add 300+ acres faces mixed reactions from officials and business owners.

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

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Oregon lawmakers are considering a bipartisan bill that would expand the state's urban growth boundary by over 300 acres in order to attract new manufacturing and technology jobs. However, the proposal is receiving mixed reviews from some elected officials and business owners.

Why it matters

This legislation reflects Oregon's efforts to balance environmental protections with economic development, as the state grapples with how to responsibly grow its tech and manufacturing sectors while preserving its natural landscapes and farmland.

The details

The proposed bill would allow the urban growth boundary around Salem, the state capital, to be expanded by more than 300 acres. Proponents argue this would create new land for tech and manufacturing facilities, helping to draw companies and jobs to the region. But critics are concerned about the environmental impact of developing more land and the potential strain on local infrastructure.

  • The bipartisan bill is currently being considered by Oregon lawmakers.

The players

Oregon Lawmakers

State legislators in Oregon who are deliberating on the proposed bill to expand the urban growth boundary.

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What’s next

If passed, the bill would need to go through additional approval processes before the urban growth boundary could be expanded.

The takeaway

This debate highlights the ongoing tension in Oregon between economic development and environmental preservation, as the state seeks to balance job creation with protecting its natural resources and farmland.