News Summary
Heavy equipment operators represented by the International Union of Operating Engineers Local 302 have initiated a strike, halting several major construction projects in the Tri-Cities and Spokane regions. The strike, aimed at securing better wages and working conditions, has caused significant delays in ongoing infrastructure developments, including highway widenings and upgrades to local roads. Union members have peacefully picketed at various construction sites, leaving major projects, such as the North Spokane Corridor, temporarily suspended as negotiations continue.
Heavy Equipment Operators in Tri-Cities and Spokane Strike, Halting Major Construction Work
Tri-Cities and Spokane, WA — Heavy equipment operators represented by the International Union of Operating Engineers Local 302 began striking on Tuesday, causing widespread delays and halts on several significant construction projects in the region. The strike, which started on August 13, 2025, has impacted ongoing construction efforts in both the Tri-Cities area and Spokane, leading to disruptions in infrastructure development and transportation projects.
Drivers and Projects Affected
The strike involves workers operating heavy machinery such as excavators, cranes, and bulldozers. Union officials have indicated that the primary goal of the strike is to secure better wages and working conditions for union members. Union representatives have not issued detailed statements, and the union leadership was unavailable for comment at this time. However, a union member expressed via social media that fair compensation is the key motivation behind the strike, which has prompted the halt of multiple major projects.
Construction Halts in the Tri-Cities
Several important projects in the Tri-Cities are currently on hold due to the strike. Notably, the widening of Highway 240, intended to accommodate increased traffic, especially for commuters working at the Hanford nuclear site, has stopped. This project is now delayed as heavy equipment operations have ceased on-site.
Another impacted project is the Columbia Center Boulevard upgrade in Kennewick. The project involves improving streets surrounding the shopping mall to enhance traffic flow and safety. Work at this site has now halted, affecting local commuters and businesses.
Workers peacefully picketed at various construction sites across the Tri-Cities on Tuesday and Wednesday, including at the Horn Rapids Landfill in Richland. At the landfill, Apollo Inc. workers displayed “On Strike” signs, signaling their participation in the ongoing labor action. The landfill is currently executing a gas collection and control system project, but heavy machinery operations have been suspended due to the strike.
City and Contractor Responses
The city of Richland announced that work has ceased on two roundabouts located at Dallas Road and Badger South. The contractors responsible for these projects, Goodman & Mehlenbacher Inc. (GAME Inc.), confirmed that efforts at the Ava Way and Trowbridge intersections have also been put on hold.
Despite the stoppages, some construction activities continue without heavy equipment, allowing traffic flow to remain unobstructed at affected intersections. The Dallas Road roundabout project is privately funded by the developer of the Badger South development, and no major delays at this site have been reported yet.
Impact on Regional Infrastructure Projects
In Spokane, work on the North Spokane Corridor project has also been halted due to the strike. The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) confirmed that progress has been temporarily suspended until the strike is resolved. This project, aimed at improving traffic movement in Spokane, is now experiencing delays that could extend project timelines.
Additional Details and Outlook
As of now, no new statements or updates have been issued publicly by the union leadership regarding the duration of the strike or potential negotiations. The strike’s effects are expected to continue impacting regional construction schedules until the labor dispute is resolved.
This story was last updated on August 13, 2025, at 3:37 PM.
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