About Hanford Communities
Who We Are
Hanford Communities is an intergovernmental coalition formed in 1994 to ensure that local voices play a meaningful role in the cleanup of the Hanford Site. We represent Benton County, Franklin County, and the cities of Richland, Kennewick, Pasco, and West Richland, working together to advocate for the future of our region.
We serve as a bridge between federal and state agencies, contractors, local governments and the public, helping residents understand complex cleanup issues and ensuring that community priorities are heard at every stage of the process.
Our Mission
To represent local interests in Hanford Site cleanup decisions, ensuring the process is safe, transparent, and responsive to the needs of the people who live and work in the Tri‑Cities region.
We do this by:
- Engaging with decision-makers at the U.S. Department of Energy, EPA Region 10, and Washington State Department of Ecology
- Educating the public through newsletters, blogs, videos, and community meetings
- Collaborating with partners to develop practical solutions for cleanup challenges
- Advocating for policies that protect public health, the environment, and economic stability
Who We Serve
Local Residents
Providing accessible, reliable information about cleanup efforts and community impacts
Elected Leaders & Policymakers
Offering technical insights and recommendations to shape informed decisions
Regional Partners
Building collaboration with state and federal agencies, tribal nations, and contractors
Partners
We work closely with:
- U.S. Department of Energy Environmental Management – Hanford Field Office
- Washington State Department of Ecology
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA Region 10)
- Prime Contractors – Hanford Vit Plant (Bechtel), H2C, CPPCo,HMIS, Navarro ATL, IHA
- Community Partners – Local cities, counties, ports and organizations committed to Hanford cleanup
Why It Matters
The Hanford Site is one of the most complex cleanup projects in the nation.
Decisions made here affect our region’s environment, economy, and quality of life. By working together, we make sure that the people who live closest to Hanford have a strong, united voice in shaping its future.