What: a community gathering building replacing the old H Barn at Fort Steilacoom Park, meant for events, senior and youth programs, workshops and farmers-market style uses.
Where it stands: design is moving from 30 to 60 percent; funding is a mix of City money, a fundraising partner, state money and pending grants.
Next: a Council update in December with the 60 percent design; grant decisions expected by the end of 2026; permits targeted before occupancy code changes in May 2027; bidding fall 2027.
Details
Roughly 12 million dollars: 1.8 million for design and 10.2 million construction target. A fundraising partner has committed 3.5 million toward a 4 million goal; the City set aside 2 million (1.5 million approved for 2027 to 2029); the state authorized 200,000 dollars for the plaza silos; a state grant ranking is expected in October, with a federal request and a tribal grant request also pending.
The City will own the building under a land lease and operating agreement with the partner, which stays advisory on operations and defaults everything back to the City if it exits.
Design: open-air pavilion wing, event space of about 160 seated, classroom, plaza, kitchen and storage; parking to be validated at 60 percent.
Staff update to the board: funding picture, design status and schedule; board members supported the project and public commenters asked who will own and schedule the building.