EPHRATA — The Port of Ephrata has marked a successful year of growth and innovation, according to Executive Director David Lanman. The Port's accomplishments include infrastructure upgrades, new services like Jet A fuel and Hertz rental cars, as well as collaborations with area partners to create opportunities. 

“This year has been about laying the groundwork for future expansion while addressing existing infrastructure needs,” said Lanman. “We’ve had a profit for the last three years, with approximately $150,000 in net profit this year alone, and we anticipate even better results as we move into 2026.” 

A notable addition to the port’s operations is the roll-out of Jet A fuel, which happened in early 2025.  

"Without Jet A, we can't expand," Lanman said, noting the long-term investment required to attract a broader range of business operations, including state and private aviation initiatives.  

"During a five-week period when the Burbank International Airport was closed, we effectively served as a reliever airport, demonstrating our capacity to support regional aviation needs,” Lanman said. 

Lanman said this year saw flight activity increase by about 19% and because of the Jet A fuel being available at the port, especially in turbine-driven aircraft.  

In addition to fuel capabilities, the port has initiated a Hertz car rental program to enhance local transportation options. Lanman has said that providing ground transportation helps draw more traffic to the port because those who fly in need to be able to drive to their final destinations in the area. 

“In the first week of having the program, we had seven car rentals; there was an event going on and it was during our busy season, but people seem to like having access to rentable cars,” he said.  

Lanman explained he is working with Hertz to get the online rental portal going, but as of now, people have to call the Wenatchee Regional Hertz Office or Lanman at the port to set up a rental. In the future, people will be able to rent them online without speaking to anyone.  

"We’ve started operationalizing Hertz as a satellite location, but it’s going to take time for the community to get used to the idea of renting a car locally,” Lanman said. “We have to spread the word about this service to build demand.” 

Infrastructure improvements have also been a priority. The port successfully repaired and upgraded Hangar 405, a historic World War II-era structure, bringing it up to modern standards.  

“It is crucial to maintain these historical buildings to attract aviation companies and management firms,” said Lanman, noting that the port has other hangars in line for refurbishment or modernization. 

This past year, the port also rehabilitated its main runway, ensuring it will serve current and future aviation needs for years to come.  

"The runway rehabilitation was a significant milestone for us and will support smoother operations moving forward," Lanman said.  

Alongside these upgrades, ongoing efforts include installing new runway lights and making further enhancements to the airfield's operational capabilities. 

As the port continues working to meet regional demands, it has focused on environmental considerations, Lanman said. This year, the port secured an environmental grant from the State Department of Commerce to remove an underground tank that posed an environmental risk.  

“It’s our responsibility to ensure both economic growth and environmental sustainability,” Lanman said. 

Lanman’s said he plans to secure additional funding for further infrastructure projects. The City of Ephrata entered into an interlocal agreement with the port. The Ephrata City Council unanimously approved the agreement, which authorizes the city to partner with the port to pursue a Community Economic Revitalization Board grant, which would help the two entities in preparing an economic development plan to bring more businesses to the area. The grant has the potential to fund up to $100,000 or around 80% of the total project cost. The remaining 20%, or $20,000, will be split evenly between the port and the city.  

“The benefits would be bringing in a company that provides jobs, pays property tax and increases the value of the remaining properties at the port,” Lanman said.  

Financially, the port has reported promising results, and Lanman anticipates an upward trajectory with the continued focus on development. 

"We've got a lot of interesting potential projects in the pipeline, including a lease opportunity with a major data center," he said.  

The potential tenant would see the port lease 40 acres of land. Lanman said the established buildings at the port are full. He said this is why infrastructure will continue to be a priority going forward.  

“We could have increased the number of clients we had, but we are full. That is why we need to invest in infrastructure work. We are filled to capacity,” Lanman said. “We have roughly 40 tenants and every building is full. So, we could have grown if we had the infrastructure; that is what I am working on. I am trying to find the money to build additional warehousing and additional types of infrastructure to take advantage of opportunities we have been presented with.”  

Looking ahead to 2026, infrastructure upgrades remain at the forefront of the port's development strategy, Lanman said.  

"Our focus for the upcoming year will be expanding our taxiway system and continuing our renovations on the World War II-era hangars," he said.  

He said the overall goal is to enhance the airport’s operational efficiency and capacity. 

“We are currently seeking grants and preparing for potential opportunities that could arise in the near future," he said. “It’s important for us to have the capital available to meet the needs of our community and support regional development.” 

In conclusion, the Port of Ephrata is positioned for continued growth, according to Lanman. He expressed gratitude for the collaboration with local authorities and neighboring ports. 

“We are very appreciative of the support we’re getting with the city, and we're looking forward to working with the Port of Moses Lake on upcoming projects,” he said.  

    The Port of Ephrata started offering Jet A fuel in 2024, with a permanent facility finalized in the first portion of this year, which has allowed the port to expand the clientele it can serve.