Port of Vancouver, USA regional economic impact grows

Port of Vancouver, USA regional economic impact grows    The Port of Vancouver, USA brings more than $1.6 billion in economic benefits to its surrounding region, a sharp increase from 2005, according to a new economic impact study commissioned by the port.
   The report said the port directly or indirectly supports 15,580 jobs, generating $763.6 million in personal income, and $81.8 million in state and local taxes.
   The study examined economic impacts created by marine cargo handled at Port of Vancouver, and by industrial tenants located at the port. Economic benefits were estimated in terms of jobs, personal earnings, business revenue, and state and local taxes generated during 2005. The study was conducted by Martin Associates of Lancaster, Penn., a national firm that focuses on port economics. The data will facilitate marine terminal planning and future industrial development.
   In 2005, marine cargo activity at the port generated $877.1 million of regional economic activity, supporting 13,075 maritime-related jobs.