Wednesday, September 30, 2026
51.0°F

Infrastructure improvements continue in Ephrata

NANCE BESTON | Hagadone News Network | UPDATED 1 year, 6 months 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

State burn ban ends; aid sought for E. Washington
September 29, 2026 4:54 p.m.

State burn ban ends; aid sought for E. Washington

OLYMPIA — Washington's statewide outdoor burn ban is scheduled to end Oct. 1, but state fire officials caution the end of the restriction should not be mistaken for the end of fire season. Washington Dept. of Natural Resources Public Information Officer Ryan Rodruck said the state is still waiting for a season-ending rainfall event. “Just because the burn ban is ending does not mean that the fuels out there will not still carry fire,” Rodruck said. “They absolutely will. The chance of large, costly fires has decreased significantly, but we will still continue to see fire on the landscape, potentially, for the next few weeks. We urge community members to use caution and follow local guidelines with any burning they may do following the end of the burn ban.”

Falstad, Homesley outline approaches to election security, public trust
September 29, 2026 4:29 p.m.

Falstad, Homesley outline approaches to election security, public trust

EPHRATA — As Election Day approaches, questions about election integrity, ballot security and public trust remain at the forefront of political discussions across the country. For the fourth installment of the Columbia Basin Herald’s five-part candidate Q&A series, auditor candidates Shannon Falstad and Darci Homesley were asked: “Election administration has become increasingly scrutinized in recent years. What is the most important thing Grant County voters should know about how local elections are conducted, and what additional steps, if any, would you take to strengthen public confidence in the process?”

Soap Lake seeks input on 20-year growth plan
September 29, 2026 4:22 p.m.

Soap Lake seeks input on 20-year growth plan

SOAP LAKE — Soap Lake residents will have multiple opportunities over the coming months to help shape the city's future as officials work to update the community's comprehensive plan, a document that will guide growth, housing, infrastructure and development decisions for the next 20 years. The city is hosting a five-part workshop series beginning Thursday at the Soap Lake Community Center, where residents can learn about proposed changes and provide feedback on topics ranging from housing and economic development to transportation, parks and development regulations. City Planner Alex Kovach said the comprehensive plan serves as the community's roadmap for future growth.