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- Message from the Executive Director
- Q1 2026 at a Glance
- Commissioners' Corner
- Inspiring Lift: How the Moses Lake Airshow is Connecting Kids to Careers
- News from Around the Region
- Events - Moses Lake Airshow June 12th and 13th
| | | Message from the Executive Director | | | | |
In our last newsletter, we were preparing for 2026, looking forward to expanding the boundaries of what’s possible. This past quarter has been a stellar example of what that looks like with noteworthy progress in infrastructure and workforce development. Particularly rewarding for us at the Port is the opportunity to collaborate with such a dedicated coalition of stakeholders, working together to establish a new foundation for long-term growth and our region's competitiveness. It is my hope that the stories we’ve gathered in this newsletter do them all justice because collaboration is translating into meaningful progress.
In rail, we have officially gone out to bid for this project. Meanwhile, SB-6132, sponsored by Senator Judy Warnick, was unanimously approved this session. This legislation enables the Port to increase its indebtedness to account for inflation and cover rising costs associated with the rail project and bridge the gap between the state and federal funding we already have. Commissioners Kent Jones and Darrin Jackson, Airport Director Rich Mueller, and I, attended the official bill signing event hosted by Governor Ferguson in Yakima (see photo above). We're so glad we did, as the event also turned into a celebration of Senator Warnick’s last bill signing after announcing her retirement earlier this year. A true honor to witness the recognition for her commitment to the 13th district, we cannot thank her enough for her hard work and dedication during her remarkable career.
In March, we sent a team to Washington D.C. to engage in discussions surrounding power and water, more details in the Commissioners’ Corner below. Although conversations about power were kept at a high level, we still made notable progress in garnering support. We appreciate the audience and the backing we received in addressing the essential need for new energy generation in our region.
| | In water, the Port was pleased to officially co-launch and present the W20 Lateral Extension project, a collaborative effort with the Columbia Basin Conservation District and an amazing team of partners. A website has been created to provide up-to-date information about this initiative, along with a short film that outlines the project’s scope. We also encourage you to sign up for the W20 newsletter, for news and developments as they happen. I was also honored to participate in a panel for the Columbia Basin Conservation District Stakeholder meeting, where we discussed the W20 and how water capacity integrates into economic development strategies alongside Grant and Adams economic developers. It was insightful to hear different stakeholder perspectives and discuss how we can further unite to advance our shared interests. | | | |
In workforce development, we are preparing for the NCW Tech Alliance’s Flywheel Investment Conference in May, where we look forward to supporting the innovative ideas of our next generation. Our Director of Business Development, Richard Hanover, will take part in a panel discussion focused on the essential elements of investment-ready ecosystems. Stay tuned to our social media channels for that story until our next newsletter. Additionally, we are thrilled about the upcoming Moses Lake Airshow, where event organizers will introduce more STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) activities for children and families. Read more below about how partnerships are elevating this exciting aviation event to a whole new level of engagement, learning, and fun.
Finally, we would like to express our sincere congratulations to Samaritan and LKQ for their recent grand openings this past quarter. For those of you reading this newsletter from outside our region, Samaritan's new hospital represents a significant milestone in our local healthcare landscape. Meanwhile, LKQ, a global leader in the automobile aftermarket industry, has inaugurated their expansive 182,000 square foot facility near the Port. Be sure to read more about both of these exciting developments below.
Thank you for your continued interest in the Port of Moses Lake. Happy spring, longer days, and continued successes in the months ahead.
| | March 16: Million Air Moses Lake’s new hangar project at Grant County International Airport has gone vertical! We’re so excited to watch the progress being made on their new space right next door to our terminal. We look forward to their move-in around the end of this year! | | Feb 24: A very productive day in Olympia, where our Executive Dir., Dan Roach, provided testimony in support of a Senator Judy Warnick sponsored bill, SB-6132. We also had Brant Mayo, Executive Director of Grant County EDC, offering testimony and advocating for support! | | Feb 18: We were delighted to welcome students from Marlin Hutterite Brethren school. Students watched a Life Flight transport, a visiting USN Growler, and observed a Boeing 777-9 arrival. Kids were also thrilled to visit Port Fire Department and watch a fire truck demonstration before adjourning to lunch overlooking our tarmac. | | Feb 4: Click on the image above for some epic sounds of freedom. Notice the colorful tail? That’s a CAG (Carrier Air Group) paint scheme — each US Navy carrier air group has its own bold, colorful design. Thank you, Bryant Lopez of Graham Cracker Photography for this photo! | | January 26: We were pleased to hear from Dollie Boyd and Ann Schempp from the Moses Lake Museum & Art Center to introduce discussions and a potential partnership for archiving the Port of Moses Lake’s expansive photo and print memorabilia collection. | | Jan 26: Katherine Cruz, Stoke Space’s Vice President and Moses Lake Test Site & Operations Director, presented Port commissioners with two large (and stunning) prints showcasing Stoke Space at work, a scale model of Nova, their 100% reusable medium-lift rocket, and a thank-you card. | | Jan 12: At our commission meeting, David Bailey, former Executive Director for the Port of Moses Lake, donates a model Boeing 367-80 "Dash 80", precursor to the KC-135 Stratotanker and 707 Airliner, both flight tested here at the Grant County International Airport. | | Jan 8: While we like it busy at the Grant County International Airport, it’s also good to enjoy quiet moments like this, where it was so still you could almost hear the frost melting as the sun came out. As usual, blue skies won out and flight training and flight commerce continue to hum right along. | | | Summary Update of Commision Activity at the Port of Moses Lake | | |
Infrastructure
In March, leadership traveled to Washington D.C. to discuss power and water with staff from the offices of Senator Maria Cantwell, Senator Patty Murray, Congressman Dan Newhouse, as well as officials from the Department of Interior, Bureau of Land Management (BLM), and U.S. Bureau of Reclamation.
Power
In D.C., energy discussions remained high level, with the delegation meeting with the Department of Energy’s Office of Intergovernmental Affairs, which pledged to connect the Port with additional DOE contacts as the Port explores transmission options and federal funding for planning and feasibility work for energy infrastructure with a focus on geothermal and advanced nuclear opportunities.
Water
The Port is planning to submit a Fiscal Year 2027 Congressionally Directed Spending request for $1 million through the offices of Senator Maria Cantwell and Congressman Dan Newhouse to fund planning and predesign work, with discussions underway about larger funding opportunities, including a Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) request submitted by Port partner, Accelerate Strategies, seeking authorization of $25 million through the Army Corps of Engineers.
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Rail
Right of way complete, 100% design complete, and Notice for Request for Proposals - Construction Management of Northern Columbia Basin Rail Project issued March 10, 2026.
Comprehensive Scheme of Harbor Improvements
Port Commission approved addendums to the Port of Moses Lake’s Comprehensive Scheme of Harbor Improvements originally published June 30, 2025. The addendums include property acquisitions east and adjacent to Port property, the W20 (water) project, and power project. Read more here.
Engagement
In the first quarter, leadership attended the Washington Public Ports Association (WPPA) annual Day on the Hill advocating for vital power, water, and rail investments. Leadership also went to Washington D.C. (see infrastructure section), BBCC’s Cellarbration for Education, Governor Ferguson bill signing event for Senator Warnick SB 6132 in Yakima, Samaritan’s new hospital grand opening, as well as LKQ’s open house, and regional meetings supporting rail, power, and water projects. Also participated in Washington State Department of Transportation forum developing their long-term strategy.
| Read commission meeting minutes here | |
March 10, L to R: Jason Demers, President & CEO, TC Resource Management Corp.; Kevin Richards, President, Western Pacific Engineering & Survey; Darrin Jackson, Port of Moses Lake Commissioner; Richard Hanover, Director of Business Development, standing outside the Assistant Secretary Land and Minerals Management office in the Department of the Interior Building, Washington D.C. | |
Airport Operations
In February, the Port hosted an FAA Air Traffic Organization and Grant County International Airport stakeholders meeting. Port tenants, airport customers, local municipal leaders, and Port leadership joined along with Rep. Dan Newhouse and Rep. Tom Dent.
Contributed to Lt. Governor Denny Heck’s National Lieutenant Governors Association (NLGA) Report for the Port’s role in State Strategies in Aerospace, Aviation, and Defense. Also attended annual FAA meeting in Seattle.
| | Inspiring Lift: How the Moses Lake Airshow is Connecting Kids to Careers | | |
By: Port of Moses Lake Staff Writer
In an increasingly digital world, the Moses Lake Airshow offers aviation enthusiasts something rare and powerful: a tangible, "touch-and-feel" experience. The rumble of a radial engine or the sheer scale of a runway that elicits awe, excitement, and ambitions. Providing these real-world connections is vital for our youth, offering families an opportunity to share in the wonders of flight while honoring our region's rich aviation history. At this year’s Moses Lake Airshow, June 12th and 13th, visitors can expect to experience all that and more.
Moses Lake Airshow Organizer, Katey Kimbrel, said, “We’re broadening that 'touch and feel' to STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) hands-on learning activities and not just from aviation, but healthcare, manufacturing, and civil service. We’ll have a fire truck, law enforcement vehicles, a car show, clean-tech, university level clubs and just so many ways for kids of all ages to engage with exciting careers here, including the Port of Moses Lake’s Industry Day event for the Boys & Girls Club of the Columbia Basin.”
| | Already an active partner in workforce development initiatives, Moses Lake Airshow will bring more hands-on activities to this year's event, including Boys & Girls Club Industry Day. Pictured: Katey Kimbrel, Moses Lake Airshow Organizer, at NCW Tech Alliance’s STEM Night earlier this month. | | |
Industry Day is a half-day event where the Port of Moses Lake brings professionals to the clubhouse, introducing youth to careers and educational pathways here at home. It’s where kids can learn how to read an X-ray, what it takes to be a deputy, or how to energize a small light bulb, then think bigger. At this year’s Moses Lake Airshow, Boys & Girls Club kids will experience their Industry Day at the airshow and with their families. As members of the club, kids and their families will receive a special discount code and little extra red-carpet treatment with preferred parking and tarmac access, guided tours across stations, and an opportunity to enter a random drawing for a classroom tour of the airport.
Director of Business Development, Richard Hanover, said, “This is a pilot program trying to expose more kids to aerospace and other industry careers by not only bringing them together, but having the added fun and excitement of being at the airshow. We’re grateful for Moses Lake Airshow leaders and industries rallying together to make an unforgettable experience for all kids.”
| | Grant County Sheriff's Office Deputy giving a Boys & Girls Club Member a high-five at Industry Day 2025. | | |
As the proud host of the Moses Lake Airshow, the Port’s commitment to inspiring the next generation extends beyond a single weekend in June. The Port supports workforce development initiatives by offering school and educator tours of the Port, and more recently, committed to helping Boys & Girls Club’s Green Horizons program, focusing on career exploration in clean tech, renewable energy, and sustainability sectors. The Port also supports Big Bend Community College’s "Cellarbration for Education", NCW Tech’s Innovator Awards, and upcoming Flywheel Investment Conference. Airport Director Rich Mueller is also mentoring leadership through Civil Air Patrol instruction and attending career fairs.
Hanover said, “It’s so important to get kids learning about and thinking about the opportunities we already have waiting for them here. By investing in the Moses Lake Airshow and these programs, we, along with an amazing network of industry and educational partners, are cultivating a great place to dream big on and off the tarmac."
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About the Moses Lake Airshow
The Moses Lake Airshow, Friday June 12th and Saturday, June 13, 2026, is also making the event even more accessible to everyone, with General Admission free on Friday and kids free both days. Come see exciting aerial displays including a P-51D Mustang demo, Microjet Subsonex JSX-2, Red Bull Air Force flying a Cessna 180 exchanging sky jumpers with an inverted Red Bull Helicopter, and “Doc” a B-29 Superfortress bomber–one of the only two left flying in the world and more!
Learn more or get your tickets at: https://moseslakeairshow.com/
| | News From Around our Region | | |
Ferguson Signs Warnick's Last Bill Boosting Port of Moses Lake Infrastructure
SourceOne News
| March 24, 2026 – A key piece of legislation aimed at advancing major infrastructure projects at the Port of Moses Lake has officially become law. Gov. Bob Ferguson signed Senate Bill 6132 on March 20 during a ceremony in Yakima, marking a significant step forward for rail and power upgrades tied to the port’s long-term economic development plans. | | Photo courtesy: Senate Republicans | | |
W20 project in early planning stages
Columbia Basin Herald
| March 17, 2026 – Port of Moses Lake officials are working on lining up partners and funding for a project that would tap an irrigation canal for additional water to the port and local municipalities. Port Director Dan Roach said the first task will be starting the planning, scheduled for 2026. | | Photo courtesy: CBH FILE PHOTO | | |
Port of Moses Lake rail project moving to construction
Columbia Basin Herald
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March 10, 2026 – With two decades of work already in the project, the Port of Moses Lake is looking for someone to oversee construction of its new and refurbished rail line. Milton Miller, port facilities director, said hiring a construction manager is the first step.
“The (request for proposals) for a construction manager is going out later this month,” he said. “Hopefully, we should have a firm and a price for you in April.”
| | Photo courtesy: Cheryl Schweizer/ CBH | | |
Port of Moses Lake Delegation Advances W20 Water Project During D.C. Trip
W20
| March 10, 2026 – Last week, a Port of Moses Lake delegation led by Commissioner Darrin Jackson, Grant County Commissioner Rob Jones, Director of Business Development, Richard Hanover, and President of Western Pacific Engineering & Survey, Kevin Richards, returned from meetings in Washington with new momentum for the W20 water project and progress on energy efforts. | | Photo courtesy: Port of Moses Lake | | |
Port of Moses Lake advances major infrastructure projects to boost economic development
Apple Valley News Now
| March 4, 2026 – The Port of Moses Lake is moving forward with several major infrastructure projects designed to support new business growth and economic development in the region, with improvements that could benefit communities across central Washington. | | Photo courtesy: Apple Valley News Now | | |
Moses Lake proposes W-20 spillway project to improve regional water quality and delivery
Apple Valley News Now
| February 19, 2026 – City leaders say a new regional water project could bring major long-term benefits to both the local community and the surrounding region through improved water quality and enhanced delivery systems. | | Photo courtesy: Apple Valley News Now | | |
New facility to support military coming to Port of Moses Lake
Columbia Basin Herald
| January 28, 2026 – The Port of Moses Lake has been awarded a $1.2 million loan from the state Community Aviation Revitalization Board to help pay for upgrades to the area used for military exercises. Kim DeTrolio, the port’s director of finance and administration, said the upgrades will include a building for use by military units on site. | | Photo courtesy: Columbia Basin Herald | | |
New hangar, fire main under construction at Port of Moses Lake
Columbia Basin Herald
| March 24, 2026: Port of Moses Lake officials are taking advantage of a construction project at Grant County International Airport to improve firefighting service to the west section of the port’s business property. Port commissioners approved paying about $312,600 to Freeman Holdings, the owners of Million Air, for the port’s portion of a bigger water main for fighting fires. | | Photo courtesy: Cheryl Schweizer/ CBH | | |
Moses Lake to Play Key Role in Next-Generation Hybrid-Electric Aircraft
SourceOne News
| March 10, 2026: Moses Lake is poised to play an important role in the future of aviation as RTX moves closer to flying a hybrid-electric aircraft designed to dramatically improve fuel efficiency. The RTX Hybrid-Electric Flight Demonstrator, an experimental propulsion system that combines a traditional turboprop engine with a powerful electric motor and battery system, recently passed a major milestone during ground testing. Engineers successfully ran the propulsion system and batteries at full power for the first time, bringing the project one step closer to flight. | | |
New $225M Samaritan Hospital in Moses Lake to open Saturday morning, expanding regional health care access
SourceOne News
| March 6, 2026: Samaritan Healthcare will begin treating patients at its new hospital campus at 7 a.m. Saturday, March 7, marking the opening of a $225 million facility designed to expand emergency, surgical and specialty care for the growing Columbia Basin region. The three-story replacement hospital, located at 2000 S. Clover Drive was built on a 55-acre campus and is designed to support the region’s long-term population growth and expanding medical needs. | | Photo courtesy: Samaritan Healthcare | | |
Ybarra backs bill aimed at keeping Moses Lake rail project on track
SourceOne News
| March 6, 2026 – The rail project, which has been in development for years, is part of a broader initiative to expand freight connectivity in the Columbia Basin and support industrial growth in Grant County. State officials have already invested roughly $23 million in the project, while an additional $10 million federal grant has been awarded to help complete the expansion. According to local leaders, the project has already acquired right of way and finished design work and is currently out for bid. | | Photo courtesy: Jordan Feenstra | |
LKQ celebrates grand opening of new Moses Lake automotive parts and recycling facility
SourceOne News
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March 6, 2026 – Global automotive aftermarket leader LKQ Corporation celebrated the grand opening of its new Moses Lake facility this week, marking a major industrial investment in the region and bringing new jobs to the community.
The facility, located at 9422 NE Tyndall Road, is part of LKQ’s North American network that supplies recycled, refurbished and aftermarket automotive parts to repair shops, dealerships and individual customers.
| | Photo courtesy: SourceOne News/LKQ | | |
Moses Lake YMCA project takes step forward
Columbia Basin Herald
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January 22, 2026 – The dream of a YMCA in Moses Lake is a little closer to reality.
“The YMCA ... report has been funded,” said Teresa Fields, who’s been spearheading the effort to bring a Y to town. “Now we wait 90 days and see from there whether an actual YMCA building is sustainable.”
| | Photo courtesy: CBH File Photo | | | | |
Join us for another exciting event Friday and Saturday, June 12 and 13, 2026:
- General admission tickets free on Friday
- Kids free on Saturday!
Port of Moses Lake
Grant County International Airport Terminal
7810 Andrews N.E
Moses Lake, WA 98837
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