EPHRATA — The Port of Ephrata is laying the groundwork for a wave of future development, focusing on infrastructure upgrades, regional collaboration and long-term planning that officials say will position the port to compete for millions in state and federal funding. 

Executive Director David Lanman said the port’s top priority in 2026 is “foundation building for the future,” as multiple projects move forward at once. Among them are improvements to the port’s airfield, rehabilitation of historic World War II-era hangars and new security upgrades designed to attract tenants and protect existing operations. 

“We have a defined focus of where we’re trying to go,” Lanman said. “But there are so many different avenues that could play a role here.” 

One of the most significant efforts is a newly established interlocal agreement with the City of Ephrata for a Planning Grant from the Washington State Community Economic Revitalization Board in the amount of $90,000, allowing the two entities to coordinate on key infrastructure projects.  

The partnership is expected to drive development across port property and improve connections between industrial areas and the broader transportation network, Lanman said.  

A centerpiece of that cooperation is the proposed north-south arterial route, which would run through port property and link State Route 282 with areas north of the city. The roadway is expected to ease congestion in town while improving freight mobility. 

“When you can bypass the city and move equipment and trucks more efficiently, that’s a big deal,” Lanman said. “It supports everything we’re trying to build here.” 

The project also aligns with long-term plans to expand multimodal transportation capabilities at the port. Lanman pointed to the potential for stronger integration between air, rail and ground transportation within the next 10 to 15 years. 

In addition to large-scale infrastructure planning, the port is managing several immediate projects. Work is underway on a taxi lane to improve aircraft access, while renovations to aging hangars will help accommodate new tenants, including a recently signed agreement with a company operating a midsize corporate jet. 

Security is another major focus. The port plans to install perimeter fencing and controlled gate access around the airport; a project expected to cost millions of dollars. While not yet mandated by the Federal Aviation Administration, Lanman said enhanced security has become essential to meeting tenant expectations and industry standards. 

“Prospective users want to know their assets are secure,” he said. 

The FAA has already funded the design phase of the fencing project, with construction expected to follow once additional funding is secured. That need for funding underscores the importance of another key initiative: the port’s first comprehensive plan. 

Unlike the airport master plan, which focuses primarily on aviation, the comprehensive plan will integrate all aspects of port operations, from industrial rail facilities to future land use. The plan is expected to guide development over the next 10 to 15 years and strengthen the port’s ability to secure grants and low-interest loans. 

“The days of just asking for money and getting it are over,” Lanman said. “You have to show a clear vision, a defined need and how you’re going to get there.” 

The planning effort, which is expected to cost more than $100,000, is being developed with the help of consultants and will include at least one public meeting. Port officials aim to complete the plan by the end of 2026, in time to compete for 2027 funding cycles. 

“With the city’s support and the professionals, we’ve brought on, I think we’re going to have a strong game plan,” he said. “Once that foundation is set, we can go after every opportunity available to us.”