Hermiston council approves local improvement district
By Terry Murry on Wednesday, September 24th, 2025 in Columbia Basin News Columbia Basin Top Stories
HERMISTON — The Hermiston City Council voted 6-1 Monday to approve the formation of a local improvement district (LID) to upgrade Northwest Second Street between West Elm Avenue and West Cherry Avenue, a key connector expected to see higher traffic volumes following upcoming changes at the Elm Avenue/Highway 395 intersection.
The LID will finance improvements to the gravel roadway through a cost-sharing model, with assessments to benefitting property owners and a $75,000 contribution from the city.
The council’s decision follows months of collaboration between city staff and property owners after an earlier proposal failed to advance in May due to remonstrances. The city will now proceed with full design engineering and prepare the project for bidding later this fall.
Construction is anticipated to begin in spring of next year. Once complete, final costs will be proportionally assessed to benefitting property owners, who will have the option to pay in full or finance payments over 10 years through the city.
