| Press Release |
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| November 18, 2004 |
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Governor Kulongoski Announces 1,000 New Jobs for Oregon Workers
Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines to Build National Customer Service Center in Springfield
Eugene, Ore. – Today Governor Ted Kulongoski was joined by city and county leaders as he announced that Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines has selected Springfield, Oregon as its preferred site to build a new 200,000 square-foot national customer service center. Royal Caribbean expects to create 300 jobs within one year, an additional 300 jobs within two years, and a total of 1,000 jobs by the end of four years. Average hourly wage for the 1,000 new jobs was estimated at $11.00, with comprehensive benefits.
“Today’s announcement is an example of the kind of success we can accomplish when we work together across public and private sectors at state, county and local levels,” said Governor Kulongoski. “Because of the collaboration between Lane Metro Partnership, the City of Springfield, and the State of Oregon, we are not only welcoming a new company to our state – we are welcoming new opportunities for the people in Lane County by creating 1,000 jobs over the next five years.”
Through the Oregon Economic and Community Development Department (OECDD), the Governor authorized $600,000 from the Strategic Reserve Fund to Royal Caribbean, contingent on their creation and retention of at least 600 full-time jobs during the next three years.
In addition, the OECDD provided $250,000 as a grant to the City of Springfield from its Special Public Works Fund to pay for improvements that would otherwise be charged to the company. The State will also offer Royal Caribbean up to $400,000 in grants once it has established the facility in Oregon for at least 120 days. The amount of grant funding will be contingent upon additional increases in employment.
"Royal Caribbean’s’ decision to expand in Springfield demonstrates the company’s appreciation and support of Oregon’s workforce,” said Martin Brantley, Director of the OECDD. “The jobs are highly skilled and will offer local workers an opportunity to grow their professional abilities. More than just jobs, these new positions are truly career opportunities."
At the time of total build-out, within six years, Royal Caribbean estimates its annual payroll at the Springfield customer service center could be more than $31 million.
The Oregon Economic and Community Development Department works to strengthen the state´s economy and put more Oregonians to work in good jobs. The Department partners with private sector organizations to create an environment in Oregon that encourages business expansion, creation and relocation. The agency works closely with local communities to help them develop the infrastructure they need to attract business and keep their economies growing. For more information, call the OECDD at (503) 986-0123 or visit http://www.econ.state.or.us/
Media Contact:
Marian Hammond, 503-378-6169
Anna Richter Taylor, 503-378-6496
Michelle Godfrey, 503-986-0112
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