Lewis County, Washington

I-5

US 12

WA-6

WA-7

Lewis County, Washington is a county located in the U.S. state of Washington. As of the 2020 United States Census, the population was 80,707. The county seat and largest city is Chehalis. Lewis County was created on December 19, 1845, by the Oregon Provisional Government, making it one of the first counties in the area. It was named after Meriwether Lewis of the Lewis and Clark Expedition. The county is located in the southwestern part of the state, bordered by Thurston County to the north, Pierce County to the northeast, Yakima County to the east, Skamania County to the southeast, Cowlitz County to the south, and the Pacific Ocean to the west.

Geography

Lewis County covers an area of approximately 2,436 square miles, making it one of the larger counties in Washington by land area. The county's geography is diverse, featuring the western slopes of the Cascade Mountains, numerous rivers and streams, including the Cowlitz River and Chehalis River, and vast tracts of forest land. The Gifford Pinchot National Forest covers a significant portion of the eastern part of the county, offering a variety of outdoor recreational activities.

Demographics

As of the 2020 Census, Lewis County had a population of 80,707. The demographic makeup of the county has been predominantly white, with a growing Hispanic or Latino population. The economy of Lewis County has traditionally been based on logging, agriculture, and fishing, with recent diversification into retail and services sectors.

Economy

The economy of Lewis County has historically been driven by natural resources, particularly timber and agriculture. The county has experienced economic shifts due to changes in these industries, including declines in logging due to environmental regulations and changes in global markets. Efforts have been made to diversify the economy, including the development of industrial parks and promotion of tourism, particularly outdoor recreation in the county's vast wilderness areas.

Government and Politics

Lewis County is governed by a three-member Board of County Commissioners, elected from geographic districts to four-year terms. The county has a reputation for leaning conservative politically, often supporting Republican candidates in state and national elections.

Education

Lewis County is served by several public school districts, including the Chehalis School District and Centralia School District, which provide education from kindergarten through 12th grade. Higher education is available through Centralia College, a two-year community college located in Centralia.

Transportation

Transportation infrastructure in Lewis County includes Interstate 5, which runs north-south through the county, providing access to both Portland and Seattle. The county also has several state highways and a network of county roads. Public transportation is provided by Twin Transit, offering bus services in the Centralia and Chehalis areas.

Culture and Recreation

Lewis County offers a wide range of recreational opportunities, including hiking, fishing, hunting, and camping in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest and other public lands. The county hosts several annual events, such as the Southwest Washington Fair, which attracts visitors from across the region.