Saturday, February 28, 2026
28.0°F

Infrastructure improvements continue in Ephrata

NANCE BESTON | Hagadone News Network | UPDATED 11 months, 1 week AGO
by NANCE BESTON
Staff Writer | March 27, 2025 2:05 AM

EPHRATA – Developments are continuing to take place in Ephrata as the city embarks on infrastructure projects aimed at enhancing community resources and ensuring the reliability of essential services.  

Ephrata Mayor Bruce Reim recently provided insights into ongoing initiatives, including the construction of a new water tower, road maintenance efforts, and a sewer system evaluation, all part of the city's commitment to investing in its future. 

"Our new water tower is rising,” he said. “Once complete, it will stand about 150 feet tall with 19 rings, and as of today, eight rings are in place.”  

The mayor highlighted the progress made thus far, with teams working to ensure the structure is completed by the anticipated deadline in October.  

Following the completion of the water tower, Reim said some fine-tuning would still be necessary before it becomes fully operational. This includes exterior painting and decisions about local design elements.  

"We're still discussing what will be put on the exterior of the water tower. Everybody’s talking about it, but we haven’t finalized anything yet," he said. 

In addition to the water tower, the city is in the midst of a spring cleanup that involves a comprehensive approach to road maintenance.  

"We’re sweeping the roads, painting the crosswalks, and getting it ready for summer activity," Reim said.  

Reim said the goal is to ensure the city is presentable for residents and visitors. 

Road maintenance efforts are accompanied by a crack seal project that resumed after the winter months. 

"This essential maintenance helps extend the life of our roads by sealing small cracks before they become bigger issues," Reim said. 

Although there will not be any major road closures associated with this project, minor traffic detours may be in place. 

Along with these improvements, Ephrata is undertaking a sewer lining project aimed at assessing and repairing the city’s sewer system. Reim said that contractors have been inspecting sewer lines using advanced technology to evaluate their condition.  

The inspection process will help pinpoint areas in need of repair, ensuring that the city can address any vulnerabilities swiftly and maintain an effective system, according to a statement from the city.  

Reim expressed gratitude to Ephrata residents.  

"We appreciate your patience and support as we continue investing in Ephrata's future,” he said. 

    REIM
 
 


ARTICLES BY NANCE BESTON

Frosty Finds offers appraisals, unique finds Saturday
February 27, 2026 3 a.m.

Frosty Finds offers appraisals, unique finds Saturday

MOSES LAKE — The Moses Lake Museum & Art Center is inviting the public to its Frosty Finds Flea Market and Appraisal Fair on Saturday, where some appraisal slots remain open for anyone curious about the value or history of their antiques and collectibles.

Army takes custody of Gorge shooting suspect
February 27, 2026 3:15 a.m.

Army takes custody of Gorge shooting suspect

MOSES LAKE — The Army has taken custody of the soldier accused of killing two people and injuring several others during the 2023 Beyond Wonderland music festival shooting at the Gorge Amphitheatre and has now charged him under military law.

Columbia Basin Hospital board seeks applicants
February 26, 2026 6:15 p.m.

Columbia Basin Hospital board seeks applicants

EPHRATA — Columbia Basin Hospital is seeking applicants to fill a vacant seat on the Board of Commissioners for Public Hospital District No. 3.