Port districts support local economies

EASTERN WASHINGTON — The word “port” is a bit misleading when it comes to port districts in Washington. No body of water is required to be considered a port in this state. Rather, ports are set up as municipal districts run by an elected board of commissioners. “Ports in Washington State are a different animal than most other states,” said Randy Hayden, Executive Director with the Port of Pasco. “We have the most ports of any state in the country because of the broad definition of what port authorities are in Washington.” According to the Port of Pasco’s website, ports can serve many different functions, and are usually unique to the specific regions, counties, and cities that they incorporate. The Washington Public Ports Association website lists the many possible functions of ports in Washington, which can include economic development, trade and transportation, cargo and freight mobility, public works, environmental programs, land development and community engagement.