December 9, 2025

RICHLAND, Wash. – Port of Benton has promoted Audrey Burney to Director of Economic Development.

Burney joined the port in May 2024 and has been serving as Real Estate Manager, managing the port’s real estate portfolio and other administrative, technical and professional tasks.

Before joining the port, Burney worked at Gesa Credit Union as a commercial property administrator, where she developed property procedures and served as the primary contact for tenants and external property managers for leased facilities. Prior to Gesa, Burney worked for Port of Pasco for over 10 years, starting as an administrative assistant and expanding into a property leasing associate, assisting the director of properties with industrial tenants and properties.  

Burney’s new role will focus on planning, implementing and managing industrial and economic development initiatives within the Port of Benton district. Burney will also focus on industrial and entrepreneurial recruitment, rail-related development, business retention and expansion, and strategic planning aligned with the port’s Comprehensive Plan.

“Audrey’s extensive experience in property management and her deep understanding of regional economic development make her an invaluable asset to our team,” said Diahann Howard, Port of Benton Executive Director. “In her new role, she will help drive strategic initiatives that strengthen our industrial and entrepreneurial base and foster growth throughout the Port of Benton district.”

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