Wenspok Resources LLC, the Spokane-based owner and operator of Wendy’s restaurants in the Northwest, opened its newest Tri-Cities location Feb. 28 at 5706 Road 68 in Pasco

Grand opening festivities were held March 7.

The Pasco Wendy’s is the 53rd for the company and is part of an aggressive plan to invest in the building and remodeling of Wendy’s restaurants over the next couple of years. The new restaurant coincided with the permanent closure of the Wendy’s at 3115 W. Clearwater Ave. in Kennewick.

The Pasco restaurant follows Wendy’s “Smart 55” design, which has a smaller footprint than traditional buildings and features a modern exterior and interior finishes. It seats 58 and has Wi-Fi, a fireplace, parking, kiosk ordering and a patio.

“The Tri-Cities community has always been a supportive community and as it continues to grow and evolve, we want to make sure we are meeting the community’s needs,” said Jenn Robson, vice president of business operations for Wenspok. “It’s great to see the development in this area and have the opportunity to be a part of it.”

Associated Construction Inc. of Spokane was the builder.

Wendy’s International was the designer.