Franklin County Leaders call “urgent” regional discussion on Highway 395

December 5, 2025

By: Katherine Trowbridge

Franklin County Commissioners have been joined by state representatives and senators in the call for critical “regional public discussion” as a public meeting has been called to address the rising number of fatal crashes on the Highway 395 corridor north of Pasco.

Officials announced the meeting on Friday, Dec. 5, following recent discussions after two major accidents in about a week, one leading to the death of Kahlotus councilman. A recent evening meeting saw just under a handful of citizens come forward to urge the board of commissioners to advocate for safety improvements.

“As elected representatives, our number one priority is public safety,” the Commissioners stated in a joint release. “We believe it is our responsibility to take immediate and direct action on this issue. The need for immediate attention is urgent.”

Area leaders have joined the commissioners in the discussion following a letter drafted and submitted following the Nov 25 commissioners meeting.

In response to increased safety concerns over Highway 395, Senator Nikki Torres (15th Legislative District) and Representative Mark Klicker (16th Legislative District), and the Franklin County Board of Commissioners are convening a joint regional public discussion. This work session will focus on potential safety improvements, engineering options, funding strategies, and long-term coordinated planning for U.S. Highway 385 and surrounding infrastructure.

The meeting will take place on Wednesday, December 10 at 10:00 am at the HAPO Center (6600 Burden Blvd, Pasco, WA).

Commissioners encouraged the public to participate in this discussion and to email their state and federal leaders.