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City of Olympia Starts First Phase of Olympia Armory Conversion to Community Arts Center

Olympia, WALocal News

The City of Olympia has officially started converting the historic Olympia Armory into a community arts center, fulfilling a local request that dates back to 1989. Valerie Roberts, the building manager, noted that the community wanted arts nonprofits to handle programming while the City maintains ownership. Eight local nonprofits, including the Bridge Music Project and Community Print, will be anchor partners in the new center. The $18. 9 million renovation budget is funded through grants from sources like the Washington State Historical Society, not the City’s general budget.

Construction commenced on September 25, 2025, with plans to ensure the building is safe and accessible, including ADA upgrades and the installation of EV chargers. The first floor will feature a rental space of 10,000 square feet for community use, with anchor partners receiving one free rental day annually. The community expressed a desire for a variety of programming, which the selected nonprofits will provide. This initiative reflects the City’s commitment to enhancing local arts and culture.

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Tumwater Timberland Library Reopens With a Remodel Focusing on Families, Accessibility and the Community

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