States and cities are loosening building code requirements in an effort to lower construction costs and boost affordable housing. But critics have raised safety concerns, noting that existing rules were shaped by past tragedies and aim to prevent future harm. 

Heads up, developers and contractors: Benton County is launching a new permitting software system on July 7 that will make much of the permitting process fully online. 

The city of Richland has officially closed on the purchase of a seven-story building off of Jadwin Avenue for a new police station.

Port of Kennewick’s Vista Field has gotten the OK from the state Department of Ecology to move forward with development after a small amount of soil contamination was removed. 

Benton Rural Electric Association’s new West Richland headquarters will be celebrated with a ribbon cutting ahead of its mid-July opening. 

Real Estate & Construction Briefs for June 2026

A 72-unit apartment complex is coming to the growing South Badger Mountain development in Richland. 

Plans for a major commercial development are beginning to take shape in one of Pasco’s fastest-growing corridors, anchored by a yet-to-be-named grocery store and accompanied by restaurants, a hotel and retail.

The Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation are proposing a major casino-hotel north of Pasco — and two neighboring tribes say it would violate their treaty rights.

The man who has led the Tri-Cities homebuilders organization for more than 20 years is embarking on a new chapter.