Pasco Map

Description: This map shows streets, roads, beaches, golf courses, rivers, buildings, airport, railways, and parks in Pasco.

Description: This map shows streets, trails, restrooms, playgrounds, houses, buildings, cafes, bars, restaurants, hotels, monuments, parking lots, shops, churches, and parks in Downtown Pasco.

Description: This map shows where Pasco is located on the Washington Map.

Other Maps of Pasco

Pasco is a city in Franklin County, Washington, and one of the three principal cities comprising the Tri-Cities metropolitan area. With a population exceeding 81,000, Pasco is the county seat of Franklin County and serves as an important transportation and agricultural hub. The city is located at the confluence of the Columbia and Snake rivers.

History

The Pasco area was inhabited by Native American peoples for thousands of years before European-American contact. The Northern Pacific Railway's arrival in 1883 established Pasco as a significant railroad junction and division point. The city was incorporated in 1891. Its strategic location at the convergence of rail lines and rivers made it an important transportation center for agricultural products and cargo.

During World War II, Pasco's population grew as workers arrived for the Hanford Site. The city served as a gateway to the Hanford area and provided housing and services. Agricultural development, facilitated by irrigation projects, expanded significantly in the mid-20th century, diversifying the local economy beyond transportation.

Economy

Agriculture is central to Pasco's economy. The surrounding Columbia Basin produces potatoes, corn, wheat, onions, wine grapes, and other crops. Food processing plants, including potato processing and frozen food production, provide substantial employment. The J.R. Simplot Company operates a significant facility in Pasco producing frozen french fries and other potato products.

Transportation and logistics remain important due to Pasco's rail connections and proximity to Interstate 182. The Port of Pasco facilitates cargo movement and operates industrial facilities. Retail, healthcare, and government services provide additional employment. The city has experienced commercial growth, particularly along Road 68 and other commercial corridors.

Demographics

Pasco is notable for its cultural diversity. Hispanic and Latino residents comprise approximately 60% of the population, making it a majority-minority city. This demographic composition reflects agricultural employment patterns and immigration trends. The city has a younger population compared to state and national averages, with many families with children. Spanish is widely spoken, and the community reflects Hispanic cultural influences in businesses, restaurants, and cultural events. Population growth has been rapid in recent decades, driven by employment opportunities and family connections.

Geography and Climate

Pasco sits at the confluence of the Columbia and Snake rivers in the Columbia Basin at an elevation of approximately 400 feet. The terrain is generally flat with some rolling areas. The climate is semi-arid with hot, dry summers and cool winters. Annual precipitation is minimal, averaging around 7 inches. Summers frequently see temperatures exceeding 90°F (32°C), while winters are mild compared to other interior locations at similar latitudes. Agriculture relies entirely on irrigation from the Columbia Basin Project and local water sources.

Transportation

Interstate 182 passes through Pasco, connecting to other Tri-Cities communities and Interstate 82. U.S. Route 395 provides north-south connectivity. State Route 397 links Pasco to Interstate 82. The Cable Bridge and Blue Bridge connect Pasco to Kennewick across the Columbia River. Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railway and Union Pacific Railroad maintain operations in Pasco, continuing the city's railroad heritage. The Tri-Cities Airport (PSC) is located in Pasco, offering commercial air service to major hub airports. Public transit is provided by Ben Franklin Transit.

Education

Pasco School District serves the city's public school students. The district faces challenges related to rapid enrollment growth, linguistic diversity, and socioeconomic factors. A significant percentage of students are English Language Learners. The district has invested in facilities and programs to address these needs. Columbia Basin College, a community college serving the Tri-Cities, has a campus in Pasco providing associate degrees, technical training, and transfer programs. The university education is available through Washington State University Tri-Cities, located nearby.

Recreation

The city maintains several parks and recreational facilities. Sacajawea State Park, located at the confluence of the Snake and Columbia rivers, offers historical interpretation, picnic areas, trails, and river access. The park commemorates the Lewis and Clark Expedition's passage through the area. The Columbia River waterfront provides boating, fishing, and water recreation opportunities. The HAPO Center, formerly the TRAC Center, is a multi-purpose arena hosting sports events, trade shows, and entertainment. Gesa Stadium is home to the Tri-City Dust Devils, a Minor League Baseball team in the Northwest League.

Main sights in Pasco

How to Get to Pasco

By Air

The closest airport is Tri-Cities Airport (PSC), located about 3 miles northwest of Pasco.

• Direct flights available from Seattle, Portland, Denver, and Las Vegas
• Car rental services available at the airport
• Taxi and rideshare services connect to downtown Pasco

By Car

Pasco is easily accessible by several major highways:

• Interstate 182: Main highway connecting to I-82
• US Highway 395: North-south route through eastern Washington
• State Route 14: Scenic route along the Columbia River
• From Seattle: approximately 3.5 hours via I-90 and I-82
• From Portland: approximately 3 hours via I-84 and I-82

By Train

Amtrak does not currently serve Pasco directly, but nearby options include:

• Spokane station (about 2.5 hours drive)
• Portland Union Station with connecting bus or car rental

By Bus

Limited bus service is available:

• Greyhound: Connects through Spokane or Portland
• Local transit within Tri-Cities area
• Private shuttle services from major airports

Local Transportation

Once in Pasco, you can get around using:

• Ben Franklin Transit: Public bus system serving Tri-Cities
• Taxi and rideshare services
• Bike rentals and walking paths along the Columbia River

References