PORTLAND-The Portland City Council unanimously approved Freightliner’s plan to build a wind tunnel research lab in North Portland on Swan Island Lagoon, which is home to other industrial uses.
Freightliner, one of Portland larger employers, has let go some 1,850 employees and has plans to let go another 780 as it tries to hold on for the long term. The research lab is part of that plan, as it helps the company continue to address future needs despite the current economic backslide. Not many jobs will be created with the lab, but less drag will help keep Freightliner trucks competitive, which is good for the company’s long-term success, say those in favor of the project.