Kennewick Explores Rescue Boat for Waterfront
The city and Port of Kennewick are considering a small boat that could handle water rescues and tourism trips along the waterfront.
Updated on Nov. 6, 2026 in Emergency Response
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Kennewick officials are exploring buying a boat that could serve both water rescues and waterfront tours. The Port of Kennewick is considering a small boat for tourism use, and the two efforts are being discussed together.
Why it matters
Responding to Kennewick waterfront emergencies currently involves a time gap with existing partners, and a boat stationed at Clover Island could shorten response times along the shoreline. The project also ties into the port's goal of attracting investors and businesses to the Tri-Cities.
The waterfront has seen more than 30 years of beautification work, but no cost or response-time figures for a rescue boat have been released. Officials have not yet confirmed the purchase price or a timeline for a decision.
The players
Port of Kennewick
The port district responsible for waterfront development and economic promotion in Kennewick, Washington.
Columbia Basin Dive Rescue Team
A regional dive rescue team that already assists Kennewick and neighboring agencies with water emergencies.
Benton County Sheriff's Office
The county law enforcement agency that partners with Kennewick fire on water rescue operations.
The details
The fire department already coordinates water rescues with Pasco, the Columbia Basin Dive Rescue Team, and the Benton and Franklin County sheriff's offices. The port has met with a potential boat maker in Idaho, and the vessel would require specialized rescue equipment.
Timeline
The port plans a public discussion of the boat project at its next meeting.
Emergency Response Coordination
The proposed boat would build on the existing water rescue partnership among Kennewick fire, Pasco, and the Benton and Franklin county sheriff's offices. Adding a dedicated vessel on Clover Island would reduce reliance on partners who currently respond from farther away.
Residents along the Kennewick waterfront should be aware that water rescue response times may change if a local vessel is approved. Anyone recreating on the water should follow posted safety guidance and call 911 for emergencies.
The takeaway
A dedicated rescue boat could shorten emergency response times on the Kennewick waterfront while also supporting the port's economic development goals. Residents can follow the port's upcoming public meeting to track how the proposal develops.
What happens next
The port will hold a public discussion of the boat project at its next scheduled meeting.
Further reading
For related coverage, see Emergency Response in the Kennewick section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by NonStop Local Tri-Cities/Yakima.
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