City of Tumwater expands vision for Public Works Facility building

The Tumwater City Council approved an additional $1. 2 million for design costs to expand the Public Works Facility, which will now integrate the Transportation and Engineering Department and Water Resources and Sustainability Department. Originally planned for 8,000 square feet, the facility's size will grow to 24,400 square feet, increasing the total project cost to around $40 million. Construction funding will rely on a bond, with options for a 20-year bond requiring annual payments of just over $3 million or a 30-year bond at approximately $2. 5 million per year.

Council members expressed concerns over the communication of these changes to the public, especially to residents near the facility. Hicks assured that most additional staff would be office workers, many of whom work remotely, and the expansion would not significantly increase the facility's operational footprint. The facility's redesign aims to meet future staffing needs sooner than anticipated, shifting the timeline forward by five years. Community engagement remains a priority as the project progresses, addressing potential impacts on nearby residents. The city plans to ensure that the expansion moves toward industrial areas, minimizing visibility and noise for residential neighborhoods.