In 2021 the Washington Legislature approved the Best Economic Strength Through Manufacturing (BEST) Act.

The state’s pilot grant intends to spur development of industrial centers that result in the overall expansion of manufacturing in the state. Our vision includes direct access to the flight line for these new companies to serve their corporate and air freight needs.” “The AIM Center is an exciting opportunity to utilize the airport’s significant asset – available land immediately adjacent to the runway system. “We are the third largest air carrier airport in the state with national and regional airlines operating here,” said Airport Director Buck Taft. The Port believes the Tri-Cities Airport will develop a niche manufacturing center that attracts and caters to these companies. Manufacturing, supply chain, and logistics to support existing and emerging companies requires thousands of Tier 2 and Tier 3 companies. The right projects will be very successful in Pasco.”Īerospace is rapidly evolving, including advancements in electric and hydrogen-powered aircraft, private space exploration, vertical take-off and landing vehicles, autonomous flight systems, and uncrewed aerial vehicles. “Modern aerospace companies are developing impressive new technologies, designing and assembling futuristic flight vehicles for civil, commercial, and military markets. We believe the Tri-Cities Airport is the perfect location to welcome a fast-growing industry with a long legacy in Washington,” said Executive Director Randy Hayden. “The Tri-Cities has a long history of successfully attracting an impressive roster of employers from the food processing and energy sectors. State grant funds must be spent by June 30, 2023. The Port will provide $80,000 in local grant match. The Port has been exploring ways to develop the land and utilize it to attract advanced manufacturing employers that will generate high-wage jobs.

Grant funds will make it possible for the future development of the Aerospace Innovation & Manufacturing Center to accelerate. The Port intends, over time, to develop its land at the airport into an aerospace and advanced manufacturing center. The Port was one of six public entities to receive funding from a pilot grant program intended to increase the number of “project-ready industrial sites” in Washington. PASCO – A $416,000 grant from the Washington State Department of Commerce will help the Port of Pasco launch a master planning process for the future development of 460 acres at the Tri-Cities Airport-PSC.

Aerospace park tri cities airport