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- calendar_today October 29, 2026
Leadership at the Port of Portland
Curtis Robinhold has led the Port of Portland for nearly a decade, overseeing critical operations including the Portland airport and river terminals along the Willamette River. Managing a multi-billion-dollar budget and steering major capital projects, Robinhold recently spoke with KOIN 6 News about his career, recent developments, and current challenges facing the region's transportation and economic sectors.
Transformation of Portland International Airport
The Portland International Airport (PDX) has undergone a significant transformation. The ambitious renovation, which began over a decade ago and required a $2 billion investment, has finally reached completion. Robinhold, the former chief of staff to Gov. John Kitzhaber, expressed relief and satisfaction at seeing the project through after 11 years. "Other than my marriage and my children, I’ve never done anything for 11 years before. It’s been an incredible journey," Robinhold remarked.
A prominent feature of the airport's remodel is the striking mass timber ceiling—a design element that has received positive feedback from visitors. Robinhold explained the focus on local sourcing, "We asked, ‘If you were to do it with wood, where would you get it? Could you source it from Oregon?’ All of the wood comes from within 300 miles of this spot."
Revitalizing the Portland Waterfront
Beyond the airport, the Port of Portland is also aiming to rejuvenate the Willamette River waterfront. Earlier this year, a new vision for Terminal 2 was introduced, which involves plans for a mass timber and housing innovation campus. This initiative features a new University of Oregon research lab and is positioned as a key part of waterfront revitalization. According to Robinhold, "It can provide great jobs; people love being down there. Portland needs all the help it can get right now."
Challenges for International Trade and Infrastructure
Discussing the challenges under changing federal administrations, Robinhold pointed to the impact of tariffs on international trade with countries like Canada, Mexico, Korea, and Japan. "It makes no sense for Oregonians. That’s not a political statement; it’s just an economic one. We have felt that on the marine side," he said. The port’s international trade business has dropped by roughly a third, which aligns with trends seen at other West Coast ports.
Robinhold contrasted his interaction with the federal administration, noting he has had no contact with current U.S. Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy, unlike with former Secretary Pete Buttigieg. The previous administration emphasized infrastructure development, which supported projects like the airport remodel and led to a 50% reduction in the facility's energy consumption.
Business Travel and Economic Headwinds
Despite these improvements, Robinhold highlighted ongoing economic headwinds. "Business travel is not back from pre-pandemic. It’s not great. Small businesses in particular feel like we’re not competitive," he observed. The sluggish recovery in business travel and broader economic competitiveness in Multnomah County and Oregon remain major concerns.
In an effort to boost travel connections, the airport recently received a $4.5 million "Travel Oregon" grant to help restore nonstop flights to and from Asia. However, Robinhold emphasized that stronger efforts from local and state leaders are needed to attract new businesses and retain existing ones. "We’ve got to start acting like grownups around here and do the work," he urged.
Looking Ahead
As the Port of Portland enters a new phase following its extensive airport renovation, focus remains on economic recovery, infrastructure development, and strengthening the region's role in international trade. The commitment to revitalizing the Portland waterfront, supporting technological innovation, and improving the business environment are pivotal as Robinhold continues his tenure at the port.
Source: koin.com.
