So long Sonic. Construction begins for Tri-Cities’ 1st Burgerville

Work has started on the Tri-Cities’ first Burgerville USA restaurant near the Kennewick Costco Wholesale store.

Burgerville is taking over the old Sonic spot at 8600 W. Gage Blvd. Demolition work has started four months after the city issued permits to convert the 880-square-foot drive-in into a new restaurant.

The project has a construction value of $650,000 and is being advanced by Sortis QRS Holdings, a financial partner of Burgerville.

Burgerville confirmed its interest in coming to the Tri-Cities last summer as it worked to expand its reach in the Northwest. The chain touts its focus on regional and fresh ingredients.

T.J. Nisbet Construction Inc. is the contractor. LLB Architecture is the designer.

Burgerville was established in 1961 and operates a string of fast-food restaurants along Interstate 5 in Washington and Oregon. It announced a multi-year expansion strategy in 2024.

Sonic closed at that site in September 2022, The property is owned by Washington Securities & Investment.

This story was originally published July 8, 2026 at 12:40 PM.