#United States #sustainable construction #Timberlab #Cross-Laminated Timber #Millersburg

A Landmark Step in Oregon’s Timber Industry

Oregon is set to bolster its position as a leader in sustainable construction with the introduction of one of the largest cross-laminated timber (CLT) manufacturing facilities in the United States. Spearheaded by Timberlab Inc., a division of Swinerton Incorporated, and developed in collaboration with multiple industry partners, this groundbreaking project promises to revolutionize the timber sector.

The initiative was officially launched with a groundbreaking ceremony on February 27, 2025, in Millersburg, Oregon. The event was attended by key figures including Governor Tina Kotek, industry representatives, and local officials, all celebrating Oregon’s commitment to advancing mass timber as an eco-friendly alternative to conventional building materials.

Governor Kotek expressed enthusiasm at the ceremony, emphasizing the importance of the facility in contributing to a sustainable, low-carbon future. "Today, we mark an exciting development for Oregon's mass timber industry, which embodies our collective aspiration for a greener tomorrow. By leveraging local resources and talent, Timberlab is not just building a factory; it’s boosting our economy and enhancing the accessibility of mass timber for future construction projects."

Facility Overview

The new facility will span 190,000 square feet and is expected to produce approximately 7 to 9 million square feet of CLT annually once operational by late 2026. Built from glue-laminated timber sourced from Timberlab's other facilities, this new venture will also create around 100 direct living-wage jobs, along with numerous indirect employment opportunities, contributing to regional economic growth and workforce development.

Advanced machinery will play a crucial role in the facility's operations, marking a significant leap forward in timber processing. Timberlab has acquired state-of-the-art equipment for efficient production, including an automated feeding system and high-speed cross-cut saws—ensuring high quality and productivity. As stated by Chris Evans, President of Timberlab, the facility will not only fill production gaps left by other mill closures in the area but will also stimulate innovation within Oregon's rural economies.

Commitment to Sustainability

The construction of the facility has been supported by a Wood Innovations Grant from the USDA Forest Service, signaling a strategic investment in sustainability. Mass timber is heralded for its environmentally friendly properties, serving as a renewable resource and facilitating lower carbon emissions compared to conventional materials like concrete and steel. This project ensures that Oregon remains at the forefront of sustainable construction practices.

With the demand for mass timber growing significantly across the nation, Timberlab's investment in this manufacturing hub aligns with industry trends. Recent projections estimate that the national demand for mass timber could increase to 3.5 billion board feet by 2038, underscoring the immense potential for growth in this sector.

Collaborative Efforts

The facility is strategically located within the Pacific Northwest's specified Mass Timber Technology Hub, a distinction awarded by the U.S. Department of Commerce's Economic Development Administration in 2023. It is designed to facilitate collaboration with leading academic institutions, including Oregon State University and the University of Oregon. These partnerships aim to drive further innovation and establish Timberlab and Swinerton as frontrunners in the mass timber construction arena.

According to Senator Jeff Merkley, Oregon's timber industry has always been integral to the state's heritage. He notes, "This facility represents a new phase where sustainability goes hand in hand with economic vitality. Building with mass timber is not only advantageous for local economies but is also a vital strategy in our fight against climate change."

Conclusion

As Timberlab continues to expand its operations across the U.S., the Millersburg facility marks a critical investment in the future of construction. The integration of advanced technology and a commitment to sustainable practices reinforces Timberlab’s mission to make mass timber a mainstream choice in commercial construction and to positively impact both the environment and local economies. This groundbreaking facility is set to pave the way for a resilient and sustainable future for construction in the Pacific Northwest.