Big news for foodies and fast-food fans in the Tri-Cities: Chick-fil-A is officially coming to town. Known for its crispy chicken sandwiches, signature waffle fries, and famously friendly service, the Georgia-based fast-food chain is opening its first location in the Tri-Cities area—right in the heart of Kennewick.
This isn’t just another restaurant opening. It’s a sign of the Tri-Cities’ continued growth and attractiveness to national brands. As more well-known businesses choose to invest in the region, it brings added convenience and excitement for local residents—and signals a strong, expanding economy.
Chick-fil-A’s Arrival in the Tri-Cities
After years of speculation and public demand, Chick-fil-A confirmed plans in early 2024 to open its first Tri-Cities restaurant at 7009 W. Canal Drive in Kennewick. The location is part of the Canal Crossing shopping center, conveniently located near other popular spots like Hobby Lobby, Wendy’s, and Wok King Buffet.
Construction officially began after the city of Kennewick issued a building permit in November 2024. As of early 2025, the project is moving full speed ahead and is nearly halfway complete. The restaurant is expected to feature a modern, spacious design with indoor seating for 70 guests, patio seating for 24, and a dual-lane drive-thru designed to handle high volumes of traffic. The new Chick-fil-A is being built to serve a high-demand area—and it’s already drawing plenty of attention.
Restaurant Features
The new Chick-fil-A in Kennewick is being designed to serve a high volume of customers efficiently while offering a comfortable dining experience. The 5,000-square-foot building will include seating for 70 people inside and an additional 24 seats on a covered patio—ideal for the sunny Tri-Cities weather.
To accommodate the chain’s famously busy drive-thru lines, the restaurant will feature a dual-lane drive-thru system, helping keep wait times low even during peak hours. The site will also include 96 parking spaces and dedicated bicycle parking, making it accessible for a variety of visitors, whether they’re stopping by for a quick lunch or grabbing dinner on the go.
In addition to great food, Chick-fil-A is known for creating jobs wherever it opens. The Kennewick location is expected to employ around 75 full- and part-time team members, providing new employment opportunities and contributing to the local economy.
Community Response
Chick-fil-A’s arrival in the Tri-Cities has been highly anticipated by residents for years. In a 2023 Tri-City Herald poll asking locals which businesses they most wanted to see come to the area, Chick-fil-A ranked third—just behind Trader Joe’s and a second Costco location. The excitement surrounding this announcement confirms that there is strong demand for the brand locally.
Social media and online forums lit up when the news broke. On Reddit and local Facebook groups, many residents shared their enthusiasm, counting down to opening day and comparing their favorite menu items. Of course, some users expressed concern about traffic congestion and the impact on small, locally owned restaurants, but overall, the reaction has been overwhelmingly positive.
The new Chick-fil-A is more than just a place to grab a chicken sandwich—it’s a cultural milestone for the area and a clear indicator that the Tri-Cities continues to attract attention from national retailers and restaurateurs alike.
Real Estate and Economic Implications
The decision by a national brand like Chick-fil-A to open in Kennewick speaks volumes about the Tri-Cities’ economic momentum. As more major businesses invest in the area, it not only enhances the local dining and shopping scene—it also signals confidence in the region’s growth, stability, and consumer demand.
For homeowners and homebuyers, this kind of development is especially promising. Properties near new commercial centers tend to see an increase in value, thanks to greater convenience and improved neighborhood amenities. For those considering a move to the Tri-Cities, the arrival of businesses like Chick-fil-A is one more reason to feel confident about buying in the area.
And for those already living here? It’s another reminder that the community continues to evolve in ways that make everyday life even better.
Conclusion
The opening of the first Chick-fil-A in the Tri-Cities is more than a headline—it’s a symbol of the area’s rapid growth and rising profile. With its prime location in Kennewick, modern design, and enthusiastic local support, this new restaurant is sure to become a popular destination from day one.
Whether you’re a long-time fan of their classic chicken sandwich or just excited to see new investment in the community, this is a development worth celebrating. As construction continues and the opening date approaches, we’ll be keeping an eye on what this means not just for lunch plans—but for the continued growth of the Tri-Cities region.