Development Bringing More Visible Changes to Columbia Drive in Kennewick

In the coming weeks and months, there will be more visible evidence of the long-term development of Kennewick's Columbia Drive.

The City and Port of Kennewick are proceeding with more of their revitalization plans for the area near Clover Island, including proposed wine boutiques and other businesses.

A six-acre parcel of land between the Cable Bridge and the entry to Clover Island is part of the project.  Soon, motorists and area citizens will see noticeable demolition of some old structures that have existed for years.

Big D's Construction of Pasco was awarded a contract by the Port on Tuesday to remove concrete foundations from buildings that were taken down over the last few years.   Other buildings that will soon disappear from the North side of Columbia Drive will include the old Labor Ready structure at 219 E. Columbia Drive, the building that used to house a pawn shop at the 307 location, and the old Charlie's Automotive at the E. 421 building.

Two rental units and a laundry facility that were once part of the old Chieftan Apartments will come down, as will the house that served as the office for the old Cable Greens mini golf course.

Following the demolition,  landscaping and construction will begin to the structures needed to attract the wine producing boutiques and other developments along the Drive area.