4 major projects drive growth in the Tri-Cities region

The articles describe major projects shaping the Tri-Cities region. Each project contributes to growth through new construction in housing, industry, infrastructure, and recreation.

One project builds a $20 million affordable apartment complex on Gum Street in Kennewick. The region sees a $1.3 billion fertilizer plant project in Richland face another deadline extension. The Pasco School District studies a combined K-8 school that includes rural students and supports agricultural values. A golf resort is in development near a closed riverfront park along the Snake River.

These projects highlight the rapid pace and range of construction activity across the Tri-Cities. They address critical needs like housing, recreation, and education.

Kennewick Housing Authority has received funding to help begin work on the Bubble on Gum affordable housing community.

NO. 1: WHAT’S BEING BUILT THERE? $20M AFFORDABLE HOUSING COMPLEX + NEW CREDIT UNION

Welcome to “What’s being built there?” This feature gives short descriptions of projects shaping the future of the Tri-Cities and surrounding communities. | Published September 24, 2025 | Read Full Story by Wendy Culverwell

North 44, which is run by Ben Harris and Kennewick city councilman Brad Beauchamp, is partnering with Keith and Jordan Tiegs to transform the picturesque 300-acre property that was once home to vineyards and a cherry orchard into a golf resort. It borders Levey Park and nearly a mile of Snake River shoreline. By Bob Brawdy

NO. 2: NEW GOLF RESORT WILL SHOWCASE SWEEPING EASTERN WA RIVERFRONT NEAR TRI-CITIES

One of the world’s leading golf course designers could soon bring his talents to a sweeping riverfront property 20 minutes from the Tri-Cities. | Published September 26, 2025 | Read Full Story by Cory McCoy

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The Pasco School District is considering expanding Edwin Markham Elementary School to include middle school students. Built in 1962, Markham is among the district’s oldest and most rural school building. It’s 17 miles north of the Pasco city limits, at 4031 Elm Road, and serves more than 230 students. By Bob Brawdy

NO. 3: ‘AGRICULTURAL CORE VALUES’ WOULD BE THE HEART OF TRI-CITIES’ 1ST PROPOSED K-8 SCHOOL

The Tri-Cities’ first public school to combine elementary and middle school students under one roof could become a reality in the coming years. | Published October 22, 2025 | Read Full Story by Eric Rosane

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Gina Zejdlik, Atlas Agro director of policy and government relations, and Dan Holmes, Atlas Agro North America executive director, stand in March 2023 at the 150 acres on the northern edge of Richland the Port of Benton commission voted to sell to the company earlier in the day. Atlas Agro plans to build the first-ever carbon-free fertilizer production plant at a cost of $1.1 billion on the land. By Bob Brawdy

NO. 4: ANOTHER DELAY FOR RICHLAND’S PRIZED $1.3B FERTILIZER PLANT PROJECT. WHY THE HOLDUP?

A key milestone for Atlas Agro, Richland’s prized economic development initiative, has been put off to 2027 amid questions about the viability of the $1.3 billion, carbon-free fertilizer plant. | Published October 17, 2025 | Read Full Story by Wendy Culverwell

The summary above was drafted with the help of AI tools and edited by journalists in our News division. All stories listed were reported, written and edited by McClatchy journalists.