West Richland Complex Information
In 2021, Benton REA purchased 17 acres of land for future development. The land is located in West Richland on Cooperative Way, just off Keene Road. Below is information about the proposed facilities Benton REA is considering building on the property.
Its important to point out that when the new complex is built, Benton REA will continue to have an office and crews in Prosser with the goal of consolidating properties for a more efficient operations.
October 10, 2024
On Thursday, October 10, the groundbreaking ceremony for our new building took place at our lot. We were thrilled to be joined by representatives from the city of West Richland, three of our board members, several West Richland police officers, as well as our dedicated building design team and contractor. Their presence added to the significance of the day as we officially commenced construction.
With gold shovels in hand, our CEO Ryan, our board members, and city representatives took the first symbolic scoop of dirt, marking the start of what promises to be an exciting new chapter for Benton REA. We are looking forward to the completion of the new building in early 2026 and are eager to better serve the majority of our members right here in West Richland.
A heartfelt thank you to the city of West Richland for their ongoing support. We can’t wait to share more updates as construction progresses!
- Benton REA’s membership has grown to nearly 12,000 (16,000 accounts)
- 73% of those members live in or are in close proximity to West Richland
- 64% of Benton REA’s field work is closer to West Richland facilities
- Main complex facilities located in West Richland would:
- Decrease travel to job sites allowing for more work time
- Lower fuel costs and decreased wear and tear on vehicles
- Faster response time = better service
- Increase costs to address maintenance and repair issues
- Current HVAC failing - increased frequency of service calls and cost
- Electrical issues causing internal loss of power, overloading circuits
- Run down facilities due to age and increased traffic
- Benton REA rates will be impacted by all facility improvements considered, including the new complex in West Richland
- The estimated impact on rates is 5% over time, which equals less than $7 a month for the average residential bill
- This number could be affected by the sale of current properties and cost savings
- West Richland complex results in several properties in Prosser and West Richland that are surplus and can be sold
- District office and crew will remain in the Prosser area to serve members closer to it
- Will consolidate district office facilities and eliminate crews stopping at 2-4 locations to get material before they leave for the outage or job site
- Operational efficiencies result in more work time, faster response time = better service
- Improves service to everyone, not just those closer to West Richland
Board of Trustees and Staff hired consultants to evaluate several options to improve and expand facilities. After years of consideration, the Board has selected 3B as the best option.
Option: 1. Renovate Existing
Option 2. Expand Existing
Option 3a. Build New in Phases
Option 3b Selected: Build New Complex in West Richland