Public Safety Building passes milestone in Puyallup

The Puyallup Public Safety Building project has successfully reached a pivotal milestone, achieving 100% design completion and gearing up for construction later this year. After a previous bond proposal failed to pass, the City pivoted to leasing space at the Benaroya South Hill Business & Technology Center, opting for this solution over new construction. This strategic choice is projected to save the City around $30 million over a 30-year period. Chief Scott Engle elaborated on the funding model, indicating that the City Council approved the use of councilmanic bonds, which will be financed through the existing general fund budget. The lease agreement, which spans 30 years, comes with an annual cost of $3 million, in addition to $25 million allocated for tenant improvements that will tailor the leased space to meet public safety needs.

The decision to lease rather than build reflects a proactive approach to addressing the community's safety infrastructure while managing taxpayer resources effectively. As the project progresses, it signals a commitment to enhancing public safety facilities in Puyallup. This development is not only a response to local needs but also a significant investment in the future of the city's safety services.