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Benton REA previews undergrounding plan, says it would benefit about 62% of West Richland residents
Summary
Josh Lozano of Benton REA briefed council on a proposed strategic undergrounding capital project to be submitted for 2027 state funding, saying the work could increase reliability and mitigate wildfire risk for a majority of West Richland residents; no formal council action was requested.
Josh Lozano, speaking on behalf of Benton REA, told the West Richland City Council the cooperative plans to seek state funds next year for a strategic utility undergrounding project.
"The project that we're working on is a strategic undergrounding project that will benefit roughly 62% of all West Richland residents," Lozano said, adding the move would increase reliability, reduce maintenance costs and help mitigate wildfire risk. He told the council he was not asking for formal action tonight but offered to brief council further and seek support later. Lozano said the cooperative hopes to include two overhead lines in the scope.
Council members thanked Lozano for the briefing and the cooperative’s outreach; no votes or commitments were made at the meeting. The presentation was delivered during the public‑comment period and will be available for follow up through staff if Benton REA submits formal funding requests.
