Tumwater City Council OKs 2.5M contract for Deschutes Valley Trail design work

Tumwater City Council approved a $2. 5 million contract with SCJ Alliance for the design of the Deschutes Valley Trail on October 7. This contract encompasses permitting and construction specifications for the remaining segments of the trail system, which aims to enhance local connectivity. The first segment was completed in 2021, linking Historical Park to Brewery Park. Jared VerHey, the city’s capital projects manager, announced that design work will be conducted in phases, with Segment C and the Deschutes Valley Park Spur targeted for completion by June 2026.

The project is crucial for improving access to recreational areas, with construction potentially beginning in late 2026 or early 2027. The Deschutes Valley Trail system includes six segments, with Segment C being the longest, featuring a bridge over a drainage ditch. Other segments include Palermo Spur and Segment D, which connects the Deschutes River to Pioneer Park. The completion of this trail system is anticipated to significantly benefit the local community by promoting outdoor activities.