Issuu

Mission

The Port of Walla Walla was established in 1952 to foster economic growth and enhance opportunities throughout Walla Walla County. Our mission is simple but vital: create and retain family-wage jobs, expand the local tax base, and maintain essential transportation connections.

As Walla Walla County’s Associate Development Organization (ADO), the Port also serves as the lead economic development agency to develop, retain, and expand local businesses, improve infrastructure, conduct economic research, and advocate for public funding to support a thriving regional economy. Across the county, our focus remains on projects that drive long-term economic growth—helping to make Walla Walla County a thriving place to live, work, and do business. We proudly collaborate with local government coalitions to advocate for critical infrastructure improvements, such as four-laning U.S. Highway 12, the U.S. Highway 12-Clinton Interchange, and the Mill Creek Channel Flood Risk Management Project.

Over the past 70+ years, the Port has expanded its economic development role. It now manages more than $165 million in assets, including nine business parks spanning the county from Burbank to Waitsburg. This includes ownership of the Walla Walla Regional Airport, as we work to ensure the continuation of commercial air service in Walla Walla, a vital link for businesses and residents.

Did you know?

Washington Ports have been a driving force in Washington’s economy since 1911, when the state legislature passed the Port District Act. This allowed communities to establish ports through voter approval, creating hubs for transportation, trade, and industry.

By the 1950s, the role of ports expanded beyond shipping to include industrial development and job creation, laying the foundation for today’s thriving economy. Washington now boasts the world’s largest locally controlled port system, with 75 ports spanning 33 of the state’s 39 counties— helping to make it the fourth-largest exporting state in the nation.

Letter from the Commissioners

Dear Community,

The Port of Walla Walla is committed to fostering economic growth, creating family-wage jobs, expanding the tax base, and enhancing public infrastructure. Our goal is to ensure a prosperous future for people throughout Walla Walla County. 2024 marked another year of significant progress.

Public infrastructure remains a top priority. In 2024, we made key improvements at the Walla Walla Regional Airport terminal building. We expanded the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) security checkpoint and the gate seating area to make for a more comfortable experience for our passengers. These improvements will support increased passenger traffic and strengthen our region’s role as a hub for commerce and tourism. In addition, the Port administrative offices have also relocated to a fully remodeled second floor in the terminal.

In May 2023, we co-hosted the ribbon-cutting for Phase 7 of the U.S. Highway 12 four-laning project from Frenchtown to Nine Mile, improving safety and freight mobility. In 2024 we partnered with Washington Department of Transportation (WSDOT) and Walla Walla County to secure a $108.5 million grant for partial funding of Phase 8. We continue to seek additional funds to complete the four-lane corridor between Walla Walla and the Tri-Cities.

The Port continues investing into its industrial and business parks by upgrading water and sewer systems and roadways that will support job creation and new business opportunities. Sustainability remains central to our efforts, and we are excited about new businesses, particularly in green energy and technology, which will expand the local tax base and employment opportunities. Projects like ROCKWOOL are moving forward, bringing significant private capital investment and hundreds of new family-wage jobs to the Wallula Gap Business Park.

Looking ahead, we remain dedicated to attracting investments, supporting workforce development, and enhancing our county’s quality of life. Thank you to our business partners, community leaders, and residents for your continued collaboration. Your engagement and support are invaluable as we build a thriving future together.

Warm regards,

The Port of Walla Walla Commissioners

Port of Walla Walla Countywide Map

Wallula Gap Business Park

The Wallula Gap Business Park, strategically located on the western edge of Walla Walla County along U.S. Highway 12, is set to welcome several new ventures. With direct connectivity to the Union Pacific Railroad, BNSF Railway, and U.S. Highway 12, along with access to essential utilities such as water, electricity, and natural gas, makes the park a prime destination for manufacturing, technology, and warehousing. arrow_down_roundel

Rockwool

ROCKWOOL, a global leader in stone wool insulation, is establishing a cutting-edge production facility in western Walla Walla County to expand its North American operations. The facility will incorporate energy-efficient technologies, reducing environmental impact while delivering high-performance insulation solutions. It will support regional economic growth by creating skilled and entry-level jobs, strengthening the local manufacturing sector, and attracting additional investment, generating long-term benefits for the community. arrow_up_roundel

Wallula Dodd Water System

The Wallula Dodd Water System, built to serve the industrial park, marks a major investment. The system features a 6.2-million-gallon reservoir and seven miles of transmission lines, with room for expansion. By consolidating water systems for businesses like Tyson Fresh Meats, Union Pacific Railroad and Packaging Corporation of America (PCA) and supporting other new business enterprises, and strengthening the region’s economic appeal these developments reinforce its role as a key economic center in the region and the state. arrow_up_roundel

Tri-Cities Intermodal

Tri-Cities Intermodal (TCI) is the only inland port in North America with a national scope. It operates an intermodal ramp in Burbank, WA with the capability to serve both eastbound and westbound shipments. It connects the Pacific Northwest to domestic destinations across North America and international markets through the Northwest Seaport Alliance and Union Pacific Railroad. Unlike most inland ports, TCI is a private sector solution with over $80 million invested over the years. arrow_up_roundel

SkyNRG

The Port of Walla Walla has secured a $1.5 million grant from the Governor’s Strategic Reserve Fund to support the development of SkyNRG’s sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) facility, Project Wigeon, at the Wallula Gap Business Park. Once operational, this will be one North America’s largest commercial-scale alternative jet fuel facilities, pioneering a new, clean, American-made fuel source for aviation that creates jobs and economic opportunity for our community.

Advance Phase Data Center

A leading U.S. technology company is set to develop a state-of-the-art data center campus at Wallula Gap Business Park. In October 2024, the Port Commission unanimously approved a $32.5 million purchase and sale agreement for 500 acres at the Wallula Gap Business Park. The proposed project will expand the county’s property tax base by nearly 50%. The facility will consist of 16 data center warehouses, built in four phases, spanning 3.4 million square feet of data center warehouse. The project is expected to create 380 direct jobs, with 400 additional indirect jobs. While the company’s identity remains confidential, port officials confirm it is a Fortune 500 multinational firm specializing in e-commerce, cloud computing, and artificial intelligence services.

Burbank Business Park

The Port of Walla Walla is fostering economic growth in the Burbank area through strategic land sales, generating over $5 million in land sales to date. Two local contractors, McEachen Electric, and McGee Plumbing — are the latest businesses set to build facilities at the Burbank Business Park. The Port is also investing in the Burbank Water System for commercial development and to improve fire flow capabilities. arrow_down_roundel

U.S. Highway 12 Expansion Moves Forward:

PHASE 7 COMPLETE, PHASE 8 SECURES MAJOR FUNDING

In January 2025, the Port of Walla Walla, in collaboration with Walla Walla County and WSDOT secured a historic $108.5 million federal Rural Surface Transportation Grant, the largest ever awarded. This funding brings the project closer to completion after a decade’s long effort.

Expanding U.S. Highway 12 to a four-lane corridor between Walla Walla and the Tri-Cities was originally proposed in the 1970’s by then State Senator Jeanette Hayner to improve safety, traffic flow, and economic connectivity across the region. In the early 2000s the project gained momentum when the Port of Walla Walla and the U.S. 12 Coalition—comprising local governments, businesses, and WSDOT—began advocating for highway improvements.

The May 2023 completion of Phase 7 marked a significant milestone, completing the 11-mile stretch from Frenchtown to Nine Mile Hill.

Phase 8, the last and most complex segment, will realign the remaining 11 miles from Nine Mile Hill to the Packaging Corporation of America (PCA) paper mill. This portion, considered the most dangerous

section of the highway, will feature a new alignment, bridges over the canyon, four-foot shoulders, a 42-foot median, and critical safety measures such as guardrails and crash cushions. The project has a preliminary estimate of $351 million.

The most recent grant was made possible through the leadership of Senators Patty Murray and Maria Cantwell, with strong support from Congressman Dan Newhouse and former Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers.

“This grant couldn’t have come at a more important time as major manufacturing investments are being considered at the Wallula Gap Business Park,” said Senator Cantwell. “Highway 12 is the transportation backbone of the region, and this investment will help it become a manufacturing and economic hub—bringing new, good-paying jobs.”

Senator Murray added, “This project will cut traffic on US 12—giving people their time back—and make our roads safer while improving access for commercial trucks and freight. I was proud to advocate for this award and will continue to support this project.”

The transition from a two-lane highway to a fourlane corridor will reduce traffic risks by separating opposing lanes with a median and providing grade-separated intersections for safer access. The increased capacity will also ease congestion, facilitate smoother traffic flow, and enhance freight movement—critical to supporting increased truck traffic, especially with the development of the Wallula Gap Business Park.

Avery Business Park — Phase 2

In the fall of 2024, the Port of Walla Walla sold 2.3 acres at Avery Business Park, located across from Cinemark Grand Cinemas, to Crosland Barnes Group, LLC. Crosland Barnes designed and has constructed a 5,300-square-foot building for a Frito Lay distribution center on the site, bringing 6 to 10 new jobs to the community. To support the project, the Port extended utility infrastructure and constructed Colley Court, named after former Port Commissioner Wes Colley, providing access to the facility and enabling future economic development on the park’s remaining 10 acres. arrow_down_roundel

The completed highway will also strengthen Eastern Washington’s economy by improving connectivity between Walla Walla, western ports, and key business hubs. With Phase 7 complete and Phase 8 on the horizon, the long-envisioned transformation of US 12 is now within reach. arrow_up_roundel

Melrose Business Park

The Port of Walla Walla recently signed a contract to conduct a Phase II Environmental Site Assessment at the Melrose Business Park. This assessment will evaluate the presence of any contaminants requiring remediation and guide potential cleanup efforts. The findings will support the site’s redevelopment, ensuring it meets environmental and regulatory standards. The longterm goal is to prepare the 37-acre property for light industrial development, attracting businesses and promoting economic growth in the region.

Walla Walla Regional Airport

The Port of Walla Walla owns and operates the Walla Walla Regional Airport, which is a vital asset to the region that provides economic benefit with commercial air service and general aviation. The Port continues to partner with Alaska Airlines to maintain twice daily flights to and from Seattle. Local support is critical to retain Alaska Airlines and enable further flight expansion. The airport plays a key role in driving economic growth by attracting businesses and visitors to our region’s renowned wine country, agriculture, and tech industries. The Port receives annual federal Airport Improvement Program (AIP) grants from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to enhance safety, capacity, security, and environmental needs. Through pandemic-related federal grants, the Port has invested nearly $51 million since 2020 to modernize the airport. Upgrades include terminal renovations, apron and taxiway rehabilitations, runway improvements, runway safety area drainage and grading, and hangar upgrades, all designed to enhance safety and capacity for future growth.

Current projects include the construction of a 7,300-square-foot Life Flight hangar, airport sewer system upgrades, a fixed base operator remodel, a new snow removal equipment building, and the acquisition of new snow removal equipment. These enhancements further position the airport as a hub for aviation enthusiasts and businesses, providing a modern, well-equipped facility for the community and visitors alike.

Terminal Improvements

In 2024, the Port remodeled the terminal to improve the passenger experience and accommodate future growth. An expanded TSA security checkpoint features a new body scanner and TSA Pre-Check for faster screening. The remodel also expanded the gate area, adding two new restrooms and a new entry door for arriving passengers. “The more spacious gate area can accommodate up to 115 seats providing room for growth beyond the current 76 seats serving passengers boarding the 76-seat Alaska Airlines Embraer 175,” said Airport Manager Jennifer Skoglund. arrow_up_roundel

Life Flight Hangar

Life Flight Networks, a vital air medical transport service, is relocating to a new hangar at Walla Walla Regional Airport. The facility will serve as Life Flight’s rotor-wing base of operations, with future plans to expand to a fixed-wing aircraft base, significantly enhancing their capabilities. The Port worked closely with the Washington State Department of Commerce to secure a Community Economic Revitalization Loan, supporting Life Flight’s continued growth in the valley. This investment strengthens emergency response for trauma, stroke, and other critical cases, while retaining 16 well-paying jobs and potentially adding 13 more to the workforce. arrow_up_roundel

Runway Safety Area Project

The Port of Walla Walla is upgrading both the East and West safety areas of Runway 2/20 to meet current FAA standards. The rehabilitation includes removing old pavement, constructing drainage and grading improvements, and installing new LED runway lights, distance-to-go signs, and wind cones. Funded through the FAA’s AIP Program, these upgrades will enhance safety and reliability, ensuring the airport remains a modern, wellequipped facility for the region.

FBO

An FBO, or fixed base operator, provides essential aviation services like fueling, maintenance, and concierge services. The Port, with funding from its CARES federal grant, remodeled and expanded an existing facility at Walla Walla Regional Airport to enhance the experience for general aviation pilots and guests. The updated building features a spacious seating area, meeting room, lounge, and an attached hangar. “This new facility, along with Gorge Aviation as its operator, brings new life to the airport and gives those pilots and guests visiting a warm Walla Walla welcome,” Airport Manager Jennifer Skoglund said.

SRE Building

The airport recently celebrated the completion of a 17,000 square foot snow removal equipment and maintenance building, providing a dedicated space for the airport’s snow removal equipment fleet. This new facility ensures equipment is safely stored and maintained and brings together all other maintenance and operations functions for the Port under one roof. By centralizing these essential operations and staff, the airport is improving efficiency and readiness, especially during the winter months. arrow_up_roundel

Latest News

Budget

Staff

New Port Administrative Offices

The Port welcomes visitors to its new administrative offices located in the newly remodeled second floor of the Walla Walla Regional Airport terminal. This move enhances operational efficiency and improves accessibility for the community. The new space fosters a better work environment while supporting economic development, airport management, and business services. It also reinforces our commitment to

and continued

to the Walla Walla Valley.

Calendar

Port of Walla Walla Commission Meetings

The Port of Walla Walla Commission holds its regularly scheduled meetings on the second and fourth Thursday of each month at 9:00 AM. For meeting details, including agendas and participation options, please visit the Port of Walla Walla’s website.

Port of Walla Walla Economic Development Meetings (EDIM)

EDIM meetings are held at 12:00 PM in the Walla Walla Airport Terminal Conference Room. The remaining 2025 meeting dates are as follows:

• May 27

• July 22

• September 23

• November 25

For more information visit: portwallawalla.com

After 18 years of dedicated service, Commissioner Mike Fredrickson has retired. The Port of Walla Walla extends its gratitude for his contributions to the economic vitality of the valley and wishes him the best in his next chapter.