Benton County Throws Support Behind Chukar Construction

The Port of Benton recently approved construction of $1.8 million for 12,000 sq. ft. of new production space to support expansion of Chukar Cherry.  The improved location at the Prosser Airport on Wine Country Road will allow the company to grow, retain 55 full time employees and create an additional 10 jobs in the Prosser area year round.  In addition, this new facility will also for nearly 200 employees during production season.

Construction is expected to start soon, and should wrap up by September of this year.  A grant recently provide by HAIFEC for $100,000 will be used to support the project.

Currently, their space constraints have resulted in a second retail store located at the Port of Benton’s Wine & Food Park (2,400 sq. ft. temporary) in order to provide more room for production until the new production space can be completed.  The Port of Benton has been a key partner with Chukar since they began their business is 1988.

“We are pleased to see the growth and success of their company”, said Scott D. Keller, Executive Director for the Port of Benton.  Chukar currently leases over 16,440 sq. ft. of building on two acres of land from the Port of Benton, this expansion will take place within the same area. Tim Oten of Chukar stated, “Thank you to the Port of Benton for their ongoing support and working with us to make this happen!”

Banlin Construction will oversee construction and the building is scheduled to be completed late August 2018.

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