Legislators support historic capital investments in District 13 infrastructure

April 23, 2023

The state Legislature approved Saturday the state’s capital construction budget for the 2023-25 budget cycle. The 13th District legislators voted for the budget that will fund critical community projects, including valuable historic preservation, school construction and other infrastructure needs for communities in the region.

Working collaboratively, Senator Judy Warnick and Representatives Tom Dent and Alex Ybarra garnered nearly $170 million for the three-county legislative district. Numerous community projects from Ellensburg to Yakima will soon be receiving state funding for mental health facilities, food banks and recreation opportunities.

Warnick, R-Moses Lake, who was a lead negotiator of the budget for the Senate Republicans, said “While I wish we could have funded everything, I think the compromise that was approved makes smart investments where we can. I’m pleased with the robust level of funding for our communities, particularly around health care access, outdoor recreation, and education.”

Projects in the capital budget are separated into a variety of categories. “Community projects,” which often originate from local requests by cities or community groups are set to receive nearly $4 million. They include:

  • $1.03 million for the Ellensburg Rodeo Grandstands
  • $573,000 for FISH Food Bank Expansion Ellensburg
  • $258,000 for Larson Playfield Irrigation Conversion in Moses Lake
  • $85,000 for the Menastash Grange Revitalization and Expansion in Ellensburg
  • $1.16 million for Yakima’s MLK Jr. Park & Swimming Pool

“This spending plan will make a lasting impact on our communities in the 13th District and across the state. It was great to see such a strong bipartisan effort at an important time for our local economies and communities,” said Dent, R-Moses Lake. “This well-balanced plan addresses needed community projects and infrastructure improvements related to schools, mental health, water and forest health in our region.”

“Big opportunities will come from this budget. I’m pleased with the work we’ve accomplished for the 13th District,” Ybarra, R-Quincy noted. “These well-thought-out local construction, infrastructure and repair projects will serve our communities well, supporting economic vitality and regional growth for years to come.”

A complete list of 13th District projects can be found by clicking here