Washington County, Oregon

Washington County, Oregon, is a diverse and vibrant region located in the northwestern part of the state, encompassing a mix of urban and rural communities. As of the 2020 census, the county's population was 600,372, making it the second most populous county in Oregon and the most populous "Washington County" in the United States.

Geography and Communities

The county spans approximately 726 square miles, with 724 square miles of land and 2.2 square miles of water. It is bordered by the Northern Oregon Coast Range to the west and north, the Chehalem Mountains to the south, and the Tualatin Mountains (West Hills) to the north and east.

The Tualatin River flows through the county, contributing to its fertile land and scenic beauty.

Major cities within Washington County include Hillsboro (the county seat and largest city), Beaverton, Tigard, Cornelius, Banks, Gaston, Sherwood, North Plains, and Forest Grove. Each community offers unique cultural, recreational, and economic opportunities, contributing to the county's rich tapestry.

Economy

Washington County boasts a robust and diverse economy. Agriculture remains significant, with orchards and vineyards contributing to the region's agricultural output. The county is also known for its manufacturing and food processing industries.

A notable aspect of its economy is the technology sector, often referred to as Oregon's "Silicon Forest." Major technology companies, including Intel and Nike, have substantial operations in the county. Intel, Oregon's largest private-sector employer, has its largest concentration of employees in Hillsboro.

Other tech companies with a presence include:

• Electro Scientific Industries
• FEI Company
• Qorvo
• Tektronix
• SolarWorld
• Planar Systems
• EPSON

Transportation

The county is well-connected through an extensive transportation network. Major highways include sections of Interstate 5 and 205, the Sunset Highway, and Oregon Routes 217, 47, 10, 6, and 8.

Public transportation is primarily operated by TriMet, offering bus services, the Westside Express Service commuter rail, and MAX Light Rail. Hillsboro Airport provides air travel options, and the county is served by various rail lines for cargo transportation.

Government and Services

Washington County is governed by an elected board of five commissioners, with one commissioner representing each of the four districts and the fifth serving at-large as the chair.

The county offers a range of services to residents, including public safety, health and human services, parks and recreation, and economic development initiatives. The county seat, Hillsboro, serves as the administrative hub, housing various county offices and facilities.

Locations

• Hillsboro, OR, USA - County seat and administrative center.

Recent Developments

In recent years, Washington County has faced challenges related to public defense. A shortage of public defenders has led to legal interventions, including a federal judge ruling that defendants without a lawyer in Washington County must be released within ten days of entering custody.

The county continues to work on addressing this issue to ensure fair and timely legal proceedings for all residents.

Overall, Washington County, Oregon, is a dynamic region that combines a rich history with modern economic development, diverse communities, and a commitment to providing quality services to its residents.