Projects & Programs

Airport Initiatives

Ken Jernstedt Terminal Building Project

Built to support local aviation, bolster the regional economy and enhance the emergency response for the residents of the Columbia River Gorge.


The design for the ~11,500sq ft. terminal building includes:

  • Welcome center and lobby
  • Pilot amenities (lounge, briefing area)
  • Community meeting room
  • Cafe and small retail area
  • Administrative offices
  • ADA restrooms
  • Mechanical room
  • Photovoltaic solar and battery backup
  • Improved pedestrian access and parking
  • Sustainable design

Project Cost Estimate

Total project cost to build the new terminal building is about $9 million.


The Port of Hood River has committed to match donations dollar-for-dollar (for donations made through June 30, 2027).


The Port is applying for grants to contribute towards project construction.

Project Timeline

The terminal building is currently in the design phase. Final design is expected to be complete in Spring 2027. Pending final funding, construction is estimated to begin in Summer 2027, with the new terminal building open to the public in Summer 2028.


For updates on the project, subscribe to our newsletter below.

How to Donate for Airport Initiatives

Your donation makes the vision of a Terminal building a reality. Every donation helps this project take flight.


You may donate by mailing or delivering a check to: Port of Hood River Foundation, 1000 E. Marina Drive, Hood River, OR 97031


To help ensure proper processing, please include the following with your donation:

  • Donor name, email address, and phone number (for receipt purposes)
  • A note including the intended use of funds
  • The Foundation's EIN on the check (EIN: 33-1850307)


The Foundation welcomes donor-directed gifts and encourages donors to indicate their intended use (e.g., ‘For construction of the Terminal Building Project,’ with additional donor-directed specifics as desired). The Foundation Board reviews all gifts to ensure alignment with its mission and the practical ability to administer funds effectively. The Board may accept the gift as proposed, work with the donor to refine intended use, or decline the gift if necessary. 


Upon request, the Foundation can provide a written agreement outlining the intended use of funds.


The Port of Hood River Foundation is a 501(c)3 and can accept tax-deductible donations from individuals, companies, and other 501(c)3 organizations. The Foundation will provide receipts for donations, but the application of tax deductions is the responsibility of the donor. The Foundation does not provide legal or tax advice. Donors are encouraged to consult their own advisors regarding the tax implications of their contribution.

Project Partners

The Port of Hood River Foundation is proud to partner with the Port of Hood River on the Ken Jernstedt Terminal Building Project.


The Port of Hood River commits to matching, on a dollar-for-dollar basis, all donations made to the Port of Hood River Foundation for the design and construction of an Airport Operations Center, up to a maximum of $1,500,000 (for donations made through June 30, 2027).

Waterfront Initiatives

Where community meets the water and every contribution makes a ripple.

The Hood River Waterfront is a vital part of our identity, a place where locals and visitors alike gather, recreate, and connect. These initiatives reflect our values of stewardship, collaboration, and continuous investment in the well-being of our shared spaces.


The Foundation works in partnership with the community to bring these ideas to life. Whether through donations, sponsorships, or volunteer efforts, there are many ways to support the future of the waterfront.

Waterfront Focus

The Port of Hood River Foundation is dedicated to safeguarding the Port’s waterfront properties. Through funding community-initiated projects, we strive to improve public spaces by adding beauty, increasing safety measures, improving accessibility, and continuing to develop recreational opportunities.

Foundation-Funded Project Priorities

 The Foundation’s first two focus areas reflect clear community input and address immediate needs:

Waterfront Public Facilities

  • Improve and expand public restrooms to enhance year-round accessibility
  • Add accessible features (e.g., family-friendly changing areas, ADA facilities)
  • Identify improvements to the waterfront recreation areas


Waterfront Safety & Education

  • Clear and updated signage for swimmers and watersport recreation user groups
  • Life jacket availability near popular waterfront beaches
  • Support education and outreach on safe waterfront use through community partnerships

How Much and When?

The Foundation is in the process of identifying specific waterfront projects in line with the defined priorities. As distinct projects are identified and prioritized by the Board, the cost estimates and schedules for each project will be provided.

How to Donate for Waterfront Initiatives

Donations help fund projects to achieve the waterfront priorities. Donations made with a specified use for "Waterfront Initiatives" will go directly to the Port of Hood River Foundation’s waterfront program.


You may donate by mailing or delivering a check to: Port of Hood River Foundation, 1000 E. Marina Drive, Hood River, OR 97031


To help ensure proper processing, please include the following with your donation:

  • Donor name, email address, and phone number (for receipt purposes)
  • A note including the intended use of funds
  • The Foundation's EIN on the check (EIN: 33-1850307)


The Foundation welcomes donor-directed gifts and encourages donors to indicate their intended use (e.g., ‘For Waterfront Initiatives,’ with additional donor-directed specifics as desired). The Foundation Board reviews all gifts to ensure alignment with its mission and the practical ability to administer funds effectively. The Board may accept the gift as proposed, work with the donor to refine intended use, or decline the gift if necessary. 


Upon request, the Foundation can provide a written agreement outlining the intended use of funds.


The Port of Hood River Foundation is a 501(c)3 and can accept tax-deductible donations from individuals, companies, and other 501(c)3 organizations. The Foundation will provide receipts for donations, but the application of tax deductions is the responsibility of the donor. The Foundation does not provide legal or tax advice. Donors are encouraged to consult their own advisors regarding the tax implications of their contribution.