When most people think of road projects, they imagine streets built primarily for cars. However, in Washington State, there has been a growing effort to make streets safer and more useful for everyone—people walking, biking, using wheelchairs, riding the bus, or driving. This effort is called the Complete Streets Program, and is changing the way roads are planned and built across the state.

The idea behind Complete Streets is simple: streets should work for everyone, regardless of how they travel or how old they are. This means that sidewalks, bike lanes, safe crosswalks, bus stops, and streetlights should all be part of the plan, and not just wide lanes for cars. This program is especially important for people who do not drive or who need extra help getting around, such as older adults, children, or people with disabilities.

Washington began working on this idea in 2011, when lawmakers passed a law to help local governments plan and build more inclusive streets. In 2022, the state expanded this effort even further. Now, any large state road project (costing more than $500,000) must include Complete Streets features if it’s being designed after July 2022. Thus, the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is required to ensure that new projects include safe options for walking, biking, and public transit when possible.

Funding for the program comes from several sources. The state offers grants to cities and counties that adopt Complete Streets ordinances and commit to inclusive street designs. Larger state road projects are required to include these costs in their budget. Local communities may also use other resources such as safe routes to schools or their own city transportation funds to support projects.

This program was created for several reasons. One goal is to improve safety by reducing the number of serious crashes involving pedestrians and cyclists. Another goal is to make travel easier and fairer for everyone, especially for communities that have been left out in the past. They also support healthier lifestyles by encouraging people to walk or bike more often. Moreover, having more travel options helps to reduce pollution and traffic problems.

However, the program faces some challenges. Many cities and counties don’t have enough money or trained staff to redesign roads this way. Smaller towns may not have the planning experts needed to apply for grants or lead community discussions. Sometimes, people are unsure about removing parking spaces or changing traffic patterns, which can slow progress. In addition, attempting to meet the needs of freight delivery while adding bike lanes and sidewalks requires careful planning.
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Despite these challenges, Washington’s Complete Streets Program is helping to create roads that are safer, healthier, and more welcoming for everyone. With the right tools, teamwork, and funding, more communities will be able to participate in this important effort.

Congratulations to the Argyle Southridge Apartments on their ribbon cutting celebration on Friday, June 27! Check out he beautiful new apartment complex at 5651 W. 36th Pl. in Kennewick.

Thank you to everyone who attended the State of the Counties Membership Luncheon on Wednesday, June 25. We were thrilled to host Franklin County Commissioner Rocky Mullen and Benton County Commissioner Michael Alvarez. Both commissioners gave presentations to the audience on the key initiatives, challenges, and opportunities impacting their counties and the Tri-Cities region.  ​

Congratulations to Redefined Health Clinic on their ribbon cutting and grand opening on Thursday, June 26! You can visit their office at 400 Columbia Point Dr., Ste. 201- B in Richland. Learn more about Redefined: ​https://redefinedhealthclinic.com/

Washington State passed a new law called House Bill 1217, also known as the Rent Stabilization Act. This new law brought some major changes to landlords and property owners who rent out their homes. These changes aim to protect tenants from sudden and unfair rent hikes, but they also come with new responsibilities for landlords.

One of the largest changes is that rent can no longer be raised during the first 12 months of a lease. Subsequently, landlords can only increase the rent once per year, and the increase must remain within certain limits. In most cases, the rent can only increase by 7% plus inflation, or by 10% total, whichever is less.

The law also requires landlords to give more notice before raising rent. They must now provide tenants with at least 90 days of written notice, up from the previous 60 days. That notice must include specific language and be delivered properly—such as through certified mail—with proof that it was sent. Landlords are expected to keep records of these notices and how the rent increase was calculated.

Another rule to be aware of is the limit on how much more can be charged for month-to-month leases. Landlords cannot charge more than 5% of the fixed-term lease cost for the same rental unit. This rule ensures that tenants are not penalized unfairly when choosing more flexible lease options.

The new law also provides more rights to tenants. If a landlord charges too much, the tenant has the right to cancel their lease without penalty. They can also take legal action to recover the extra rent they pay, along with other possible costs such as attorney fees. In serious cases, landlords could face fines of up to $7,500 for breaking the rules.

There are some exceptions to the new rent caps. For example, brand-new buildings are exempt for 12 years after construction. Owner-occupied duplexes, triplexes, and fourplexes may also be exempt, as may certain types of nonprofit housing or government-supported affordable housing. However, even if a property qualifies for an exemption, landlords must clearly document this in their rent increase notice.

If you own rental property in Washington, it is important to start preparing now. Review your lease agreements and ensure that they follow the new rules. Ensure that all notices are sent on time and saved in the records. If you think your property qualifies for an exemption, gather the documents that prove it.
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In conclusion, Washington’s new Rent Stabilization Law brought a major shift in the management of rental properties. While the law is meant to protect tenants, landlords who stay informed and follow the new rules can still succeed. With clear communication, accurate records, and careful planning, property owners can adapt to these changes and continue to offer high-quality housing in their communities.

We had a fantastic time celebrating the ribbon cutting and ground opening of the Brisa Heights apartment complex on June 20th. Check out the beautiful new apartments at 10181 Burns Road in Pasco.

Congratulations to Prodigy Homes on the groundbreaking ceremony for their new Harmony Heights development in Kennewick. Learn more about the Harmony Heights community: ​https://homesbyprodigy.com/harmony-heights/.

​Join the Tri-City Regional Chamber of Commerce for an important Regional Advocacy Roundtable on Tuesday, July 1, 2025, at 8:00 a.m. at the Tri-City Business and Visitor Center. This event has passed. 

This timely discussion, titled "Behind the Bill – How Policy Shapes Our Energy Costs," will explore how recent legislation and public policy decisions influence the prices of electricity and fuel in Washington State. Business leaders, policymakers, and energy experts will break down what’s driving costs and what it means for local employers and residents.

Congratulations to Chick-fil-A on their ribbon cutting on June 18! The restaurant - the first Chick-fil-A in the Tri-Cities - is now officially open to the public. Check out their yummy food selection at 7009 W. Canal in Kennewick.