Oregon Governor Tina Kotek has issued an executive order aimed at bolstering the state's preparedness for a prospective seismic event, responding to concerns over a significant earthquake risk. The order, which came into effect today, calls for new state buildings larger than 10,000 square feet to adhere to the highest seismic safety standards. This move is part of a wider strategy to ensure that Oregon's infrastructure can effectively support emergency response efforts in the wake of a major quake.
According to the Governor's office, Kotek emphasized the importance of readiness, saying, "When a devastating earthquake hits Oregon, we need to be able to show up for Oregonians.” The executive action is grounded on data suggesting that the region is due for an M8-9 earthquake within the next half-century, prompting efforts to fortify state facilities, which serve as essential hubs during such crises.
The preparedness plan extends to a range of vital buildings, including those over 50,000 square feet, facilities used by first responders, institutional housing, and strategically important regional sites. Development of standards and implementation plans for these improvements is to be carried out under the existing Statewide Facilities Planning Process. "Preparing our state for an earthquake is a long game," Kotek said, according to the State of Oregon official website. "Protecting Oregonians when disaster strikes is too important to delay. We must start now and stay committed to this work for decades to come."
Expert opinions underscore the gravity of Kotek's initiative. Dr. Chris Goldfinger, Professor Emeritus at the College of Earth, Ocean, and Atmospheric Sciences at Oregon State University, applauded the state's foresight. "Oregon is setting an example for how to start building resiliency to large earthquakes," Goldfinger told Oregon's official newsroom, affirming the inevitability of a major seismic event and the criticality of seismically sound structures. Priscilla Fuentes, Chief Executive Officer of the Red Cross Cascade Region, also echoed the sentiment by highlighting the importance of resilient facilities, stating, "In the aftermath of a major earthquake, every minute counts. Safe, resilient facilities are not just buildings—they’re lifelines."
The initiatives set forth by the executive order represent a concrete step toward disaster readiness, a measure that places Oregon at the forefront of seismic safety planning. By mandating higher standards for new construction and underscoring the long-term commitment required, the state aims to establish infrastructures that not only withstand the tremors but also serve as critical support systems in times of dire need.
