A national egg producer continues to work toward opening its newest processing hub in Pasco and is looking for more farms to bring on board.

The Port of Walla Walla’s Wallula Gap Business Park near Burbank, just east of Pasco, is on the cusp of bringing new industries and jobs to the region. One industrial partner awaits final state permits to begin construction while another recently cleared a state regulatory hurdle.

The Port of Pasco’s industrial properties are retaining and drawing new tenants in everything from food processing to logistics. The Tri-Cities Airport has seen nothing but growing passenger counts for years. And it’s looking to the future with plans for developments connected to the agriculture industry and even becoming a player in the energy market.

To say Pasco has grown in recent years is an understatement, but momentum has slowed.

Early optimism from homebuilders and real estate agents has been dampened by construction worker shortages, tariffs, inflation and other financial pressures.

“The support for the nuclear industry and the need for power has never been greater.”

The Hanford site contractor that will operate the facility set to treat tens of millions of toxic waste stored in underground tanks has plans to lay off 733 workers on Oct. 16 if Congress has not reached a deal to fund the federal government. 

Starting today, no more surface water may be used for irrigation in the Yakima Basin through the remainder of October. 

Three people are taking on top roles at Ste. Michelle Wine Estates with the recent departure of its CEO. 

State officials are proposing to largely allow the developer of a wind farm in the Horse Heaven Hills to proceed with construction, though not to the extent desired by the developer.