Quick look at the best read Tri-Cities business stories this week

From a major tax break proposal in Pasco to a new rail deal at Big Pasco Industrial Park, it was a busy week for business and community news in the Tri-Cities. Here’s a quick look at the stories that mattered most.

Here are key takeaways:

• Tax breaks to lure jobs: Pasco is considering creating a Targeted Urban Area to offer property tax exemptions to new manufacturers. Richland’s TUA has already attracted an estimated $1.6 billion in new construction and about 600 jobs. Reported by Cory McCoy.

• Restaurant inspection failures: The Benton Franklin Health District gave 10 failing grades during April 4-10 food safety inspections, citing violations including raw meat stored too warm, moldy food and bare-hand contact with ready-to-eat items. Reported by Annette Cary.

• Highway 240 drilling ahead: Richland is warning drivers of intermittent traffic delays near the Highway 240 and Aaron Drive intersection as contractors drill through early May to prepare for a congestion-relief project on the busy Hanford commuter route. Reported by Wendy Culverwell.

• New inland port rail deal: The Port of Pasco is finalizing a lease with Savage Enterprises LLC to handle nearly 900 double-stacked rail cars per month at Big Pasco Industrial Park, giving Mid-Columbia farmers and businesses a direct BNSF rail connection to Puget Sound ports. Reported by Wendy Culverwell.

• Nonprofit closing its doors: Impact! Compassion Center, a faith-based nonprofit in downtown Kennewick that provided mental health counseling and basic needs assistance, is shutting down. Reported by Eric Rosane.

The summary points above were compiled with the help of AI tools and edited by Cory McCoy. The source reporting referenced above was written and edited entirely by journalists.