Port of Kennewick seeks input on future waterfront projects

KENNEWICK, Wash.-- The Port of Kennewick is looking for some input on how to improve the Clover Island area, as well as Port-owned portions of Columbia Drive.

Officials with the Port says they want to build on the improvements that have been made over the past decade.

"If you haven't been down to the Clover Island or Columbia Drive area in the last few years, you'll see a tremendous amount of change," said Tana Bader Inglima, Deputy CEO for the Port of Kennewick.

Over the past decade, the Port has added an improved shoreline, public walking paths and biking trails, a lighthouse and plaza, as well as wineries at Columbia Gardens, and spots for food trucks at Columbia Gardens and Clover Island.

The Port also removed some old industrial buildings, opening up property that can be developed to continue creating a destination for locals and tourists to enjoy.

"We're trying to get people out of their cars to be able to walk along and enjoy their waterfront and the trails that have been put in, being outdoors and active, and reclaiming the waterfront for the community," Bader Inglima said.

However, they want to get input from the community before moving forward with any planning. The Port has established on online "Ideas Wall" where residents can review the projects that have already been completed, and post ideas for future projects.

You can also attend a virtual Project Overview on Tuesday, August 11 at noon.

Feedback from the Ideas Wall and Project Overview meetings will aid the Port in its development of a Kennewick Historic Waterfront District Master Plan and prioritize development and organization of projects for the next 15 to 20 years.