The most significant change this week is the Tri-Cities Public Transit Board’s approval of Route 7, which will serve Southridge and Oakwood neighborhoods starting September 15, 2026. This expansion follows the announcement of extended Community Dial-a-Ride hours to accommodate growing demand for accessible transportation.
City Council approved a $500,000 allocation for downtown road maintenance effective August 1, and voted to install 15 new traffic signals at key intersections to improve safety. The Council also adjusted funding for public safety and infrastructure projects in the 2026 fiscal year.
Public safety remains a focus with multiple developments: the Pasco Sheriff’s Office confirmed the safe return of missing 9-year-old Noah Pare after a search ended on July 18. Meanwhile, the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office issued missing person alerts for Hector Alicea (27), Ceriah Stanley, Nia Sly, Ashley Francis, and Kiersten Kidder (29), with Kidder reported missing since July 12 in Land O’ Lakes.
A fatal shooting in Pasco’s Holiday neighborhood early Tuesday morning and a hit-and-run incident on I-82 near Union Gap on July 13, leaving a pedestrian seriously injured, underscore ongoing safety challenges. The Washington State Patrol (WSP) is seeking witnesses for both incidents.
Community engagement efforts include the appointment of Sarah Chen as new Tri-Cities Transit Board chair effective July 15, and three new members to the Citizens Advisory Network for input on planning and development. Benton County updated its board meeting schedule, with revised agendas available online starting July 15.
What to watch next: The July 10 deadline for Community Violence Intervention (CVI) Plan implementation grants from BFHD and the September 15 launch of Route 7 will shape community access and safety initiatives.