Port to explore project to offer ‘maker spaces’

The Port of Whitman County is exploring an economic development project, also known as maker spaces, as a means of transferring knowledge.

Port Executive Director Joe Poire said the project is in a very preliminary stage, and the goal is to leverage the presence of the two universities for economic development.

Poire explained that the maker space would be a building with several rooms set up for rent to entrepreneurs to develop projects. It could be as simple as a space for a seamstress or include 3-D printers or milling machines, he said. Equipment could be rented by the hour, he explained.

In November port and Washington State University officials met to discuss maker space plans. Another meeting is scheduled later this month.

Seattle and Bellingham already offer makers space buildings.

According to the Seattle Makers space web site, the 11,000 square foot building is in downtown Seattle. Members can access conference rooms, a large presentation kitchen and a lounge area.

The web site also explains that coworking is a style of work which involves a shared working environment with independent activity.

The coworking movement is part of the economy’s diversification. Because technology allows people to work anywhere, layoffs are leading to start-up businesses and freelance workers. Workers also are encouraged to commute less.

Bellingham’s MakerSpace’s web site says it’s a community workshop for inventive, creative people. Members share interests from robotics to crafting, steam boating and steampunk jewelry making.

Besides working on projects, they offer classes and workshops for adults and high school, middle school and elementary school students.

Bellingham’s building also offers a large open space with flexible work spaces, classroom space, a large selection of hand tools and a lounge.

“In a perfect world, the port would build a building with WSU putting in the inside space,” he said. He also said that these projects get funded by public and private money.

“We haven’t gotten that far yet,” he said.

Poire estimates that the building will cost $3 to $5 million to construct plus another $1 million to complete the inside. He also said it will take at least $100,000 a year to staff the space.

He said there are no definite plans about a location.

“I just hope it happens,” Poire said.

“Instead of these guys leaving and going to other maker spaces, it would be nice to keep them here,” he said. “I see it as a retainage tool.”

Poire said the port is looking for partners to assist them with the project.

He also said the port commissioners are excited about the project.