Open house will offer a firsthand look at a $43 million biosolids treatment project designed to reduce odors, lower long-term costs and support Kennewick’s future growth.
KENNEWICK, WASHINGTON, May 27, 2026 — The city of Kennewick, in partnership with Kimley-Horn and Merrell Bros., Inc., will host an open house on May 27 to showcase its newly upgraded biosolids treatment facility, offering a firsthand look at advanced, future-ready biosolids management technology.
The event will bring together municipal leaders, engineers, wastewater professionals, and industry stakeholders for a guided, in-person look at the facility and the technologies transforming biosolids management.
The event will be held from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. on May 27, at the Kennewick Biosolids Treatment Facility, 36 S. Nutmeg St. in Kennewick.
The open house will include a ribbon cutting and guided tours of the facility, including multiple stations highlighting key components of the treatment process.
Speakers at the open house will include:
- Casey Sixkiller, Director of the Washington State Department of Ecology
- Jason McShane, Mayor of the city of Kennewick
- Cary Roe, Deputy City Manager of the city of Kennewick
- Ted Merrell, Co-Founder of Merrell Bros., Inc.
Originally announced as part of a $43 million investment to modernize the city’s wastewater infrastructure, the project replaces traditional lagoon-based treatment systems with a fully integrated, advanced treatment process designed to improve efficiency, reduce long-term costs, and position Kennewick for future regulatory and operational demands.
The city was able to secure a Washington State Department of Ecology loan for $33.5 million to put toward the project, of which $6.1 million is forgivable once the plant is complete. The remaining funding comes from our Sewer Enterprise Fund via rates.
The Kennewick facility incorporates Merrell Bros.’ patented Solar-Thermal Pasteurization system, which uses enclosed greenhouse drying, controlled oven pasteurization and pelletization to produce a Class A biosolids product. The process uses solar energy and precise temperature control to convert biosolids into a stable, marketable fertilizer while delivering consistent, reliable performance.
Attendees will have the opportunity to walk through the facility and see how each stage of the system works together, providing a practical understanding of the process and its long-term operational benefits.
“It is such a pleasure to work with a forward-thinking leadership team from the city of Kennewick,” said Ted Merrell, Co-Founder of Merrell Bros., Inc. “Their dedication and commitment to being a leader in municipal biosolids management will set a new standard for the highest quality organic-based products.”
The upgraded facility was designed to address the limitations of traditional lagoon systems, including odor concerns, high maintenance costs, and uncertainty in long-term planning.
Key benefits include:
- Reduced long-term maintenance and operational costs
- A scalable design to support future population growth
- Improved odor control and environmental performance
- Conversion of biosolids into a high-quality Class A fertilizer product
- Built to meet evolving regulatory and operational requirements
The system’s solar-thermal drying process leverages renewable energy to significantly reduce the facility’s carbon footprint while delivering consistent, reliable performance.
The project reflects Kennewick’s commitment to long-term infrastructure investment and responsible resource management.
“Kennewick is positioning itself as a forward-thinking leader in municipal biosolids management, embracing cutting-edge solutions that set a benchmark for other cities,” – Jeremy Lustig, Deputy Public Works Director for the city of Kennewick
By replacing aging infrastructure with a modern, integrated system, the city is improving operational stability while enhancing quality of life for surrounding businesses and residents.
The program will include opening remarks, a ribbon cutting ceremony, guided tours, a catered lunch and opportunities for networking and discussion with project leaders and industry professionals.
About Merrell Bros., Inc.
Founded in 1982, Merrell Bros., Inc. is one of the nation’s premier biosolids management companies, working with municipalities, industrial clients and agricultural operations across the United States. The company designs and implements patented treatment systems that improve efficiency, reduce environmental impact and support long-term operational stability for their clients and the communities they serve.
About the city of Kennewick
Kennewick is the largest city in the Tri-Cities region of Washington, known for its vibrant community and thriving economy. With a commitment to enhancing the quality of life for its residents, Kennewick continues to focus on sustainable growth, infrastructure development, and fostering a strong sense of community. Learn more at go2kennewick.com.
Learn more about Merrell Bros. technologies
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