Celebrating 103 Years of the Port of Olympia
November 7, 1922 → November 7, 2025
On November 7, 1922, the citizens of Thurston County cast their ballots to establish the Port of Olympia as a publicly-owned port district—anchoring a vision of local control, economic opportunity, and waterfront access for generations to come.
Over the past 103 years, the Port has grown far beyond its origins as a loading dock for timber and raw materials. It has become a multi-faceted enterprise that connects our region to the world—by sea, by air, by land—and supports jobs, recreation, and community resilience.
A Working Waterfront Then and Now
In the early 20th century, much of America’s waterfront infrastructure was controlled by private railroads and steamship companies. But in Washington, where external trade has long been critical, public sentiment turned toward community-owned harbors. Thus, Thurston County chose a different path. A vote in 1922 brought the Port district into being.
Today, the Port operates not only its deep-water marine terminal on Budd Inlet, but also a regional airport, a marina and boatworks, and a sprawling real-estate portfolio that spans commercial, industrial, retail, recreation, and land holdings. Its overarching mission: create economic opportunities and build community for all of Thurston County.
Empowering the Region Through Jobs & Industry
From ships laden with lumber and pulp, to sailboats docking at the marina, from aircraft taking off at the airport to businesses leasing Port properties—this publicly-owned port touches a wide array of industries. The essence of its work is economic development, not just infrastructure. As the Washington Public Ports Association explains, “Ports … generate family-wage jobs, encourage growth, and support the community.”
Jobs, wages, supply chains, tax revenue—this is what the Port brings to Thurston County every single day.
Community Impact Beyond Commerce
The Port’s impact isn’t limited to cargo and trade. It plays an active role in tourism, recreation, and community life. Events like the Olympic Air Show, Harbor Days, farmers’ markets, music concerts and waterfront festivals and many more draw visitors and enrich local culture. The Port’s lands and facilities host boats, businesses, parks, and public gathering places—making the waterfront and surrounding areas a place to live, learn, work, and play.
A Legacy of Resilience and Adaptation
Over its century-plus of service, the Port has weathered economic shifts, commodity changes, technological advances, and environmental imperatives. It has evolved from timber terminals to diversified operations—adding aviation, real-estate development, tourism, and environmental stewardship to its mission.
In 1922 the world was changing. Closer to home, Thurston County chose progress for its waterfront. A century later, we still reap the rewards and added even more value to the community, creating economic opportunities countywide, through infrastructure, operations and partnerships.
Looking Forward
As we celebrate 103 years of service, we also look ahead. The Port remains committed to its founding principles—public ownership, economic opportunity, community value—while adapting for tomorrow. Growth in clean industry, climate resilient infrastructure, waterfront redevelopment, and enhanced public access lie on the horizon.
Thank you to the citizens of Thurston County, past and present, for believing in the power of a public port and investing in a shared future. Here’s to the next chapter —innovative, inclusive and open to possibilities.
