Intel is planning a major expansion of its semiconductor manufacturing operations in Hillsboro, according to documents filed with state air quality regulators last month.
While details of the project — including its scope, cost and timeline — remain elusive, Oregon’s largest private employer wrote in a July 7 application that it wants to lay the ground for expansion by getting approval for “additional fab space and associated emissions” at its main Washington County outpost, as well as prep for additional manufacturing at an older campus in Aloha. The term “fab” refers to a fabrication plant for making microchips.
The application, first reported by The Oregonian/OregonLive, is good news at a time state officials have prioritized boosting the state’s semiconductor industry. The project also ensures Oregon will remain home to some of Intel’s most advanced research and development projects.
On Monday, Gov. Tina Kotek signaled she is planning to give Intel $90 million as part of that effort. The governor’s office declined to provide specifics about Intel’s application, citing “proprietary information and trade secrets.”