Stevens Drive Modernization Project
Port of Benton is modernizing its 2579 Steven Drive rail facility, a critical asset that supports our region’s essential industries. The project is being implemented in phases to ensure long-term functionality with funding secured from CERB (Community Economic Revitalization Board), as well as Benton County funds and Port contributions.
The first phase focuses on a comprehensive building assessment to:
- Identify critical infrastructure needs and areas of concern
- Establish a roadmap for prioritizing improvements
- Develop a concept for improving the facility’s overall connectivity and use
Early findings from the assessment indicate that the existing 6,700-square-foot office building has exceeded its useful life and will need to be replaced. This presents an opportunity for the Port to construct a new office building along Stevens Drive, thereby ensuring continued support for its customers. Removing the existing structure will also streamline operations by allowing the facility to be classified as a factory, exempting it from Washington state’s Clean Buildings Performance Standards.
Current progress updates and the project timeline can be found below.
Building Assessment Progress
| Phase | Description | Progress |
|---|---|---|
| Phase 1 | Existing Document Review & Field Verifications | 39% |
| Phase 2 | Safety & Code Compliance Review & Preliminary Plan Concept | 24% |
| Phase 3 | Deficiencies Report & Actionable Solutions | 17% |
| Phase 4 | Conceptual Plans for Feasibility & Costing Basis | 14% |
| Phase 5 | Rough Order of Magnitude (ROM) Cost Assumptions & Grant Support | 6% |
Next Steps
Q4 2025
Issue RFQ for new building design, specifications, and permitting
Q3 2026
Issue RFP for construction of new office building
Q4 2026
Begin construction of new office building
Q1 2027
Completion of new office building
In parallel, critical updates to the 2579 rail facility are projected to begin in Q2 2026 and continue through 2028, as additional funding becomes available.