Walla Walla County updates population growth projections for comprehensive plan

The City of College Place is poised for significant growth, with projections indicating a population increase of nearly 3,500 residents by 2046. This estimate comes as part of a comprehensive plan update discussed during the Planning Commission meeting on April 15, 2025. The meeting highlighted the collaborative efforts between the city and Walla Walla County to finalize population numbers and conduct a land capacity analysis.

The population forecast is based on census data from 2010 to 2020, which revealed a growth rate of 0.64%. This rate has been applied to project future growth, resulting in an anticipated total county growth of 10,000 residents. Notably, College Place is expected to experience a growth rate of approximately 34% over the same period, significantly outpacing the county's overall growth rate of around 16-17%. This trend underscores College Place's status as a rapidly growing community within the region.

The meeting also addressed the state-mandated housing analysis aimed at tackling the ongoing housing shortage. The city is working closely with county officials and consultants to ensure that the housing needs of the growing population are met effectively. This analysis is crucial for planning future developments and ensuring that adequate housing is available for new residents.

As College Place prepares for this growth, the Planning Commission is focused on strategic planning to accommodate the influx of residents while maintaining the quality of life for current citizens. The discussions from this meeting set the stage for future developments and initiatives that will shape the community in the coming years.