RICHLAND, Wash. – The Bateman Island causeway, a long-standing path allowing foot traffic to the island, is set to close as early as next month. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has awarded a $1.2 million contract to Pipkin Inc. to facilitate the closure.

The causeway, which has been in place for nearly 100 years, connects the Tri-Cities community and Bateman Island, a popular spot for walking, bird watching and fishing.

By the end of the year, this path is likely to be shut down. Through various environmental studies, experts have identified harmful ecological impacts resulting from the manmade causeway.

The confluence of the Yakima and Columbia rivers, particularly concerning salmon, has been affected. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers explained that the causeway blocks the path for sa

See Full Page