Lacey City Council advances Midtown entrance project at Seventh and College

Under the bright lights of Lacey's city hall, council members gathered to discuss a long-awaited project that promises to reshape the Midtown District. The proposed entrance runabout at the intersection of Seventh Avenue and College Street has been on the council's priority work plan for several years, and recent discussions indicate that the project is finally gaining momentum.

Rick, a city official, presented the project, highlighting its historical significance and the collaborative efforts that have brought it to this point. The idea for this entrance, which aims to serve as a gateway to the Midtown District and Saint Martin's University, was first introduced during a virtual council retreat in April 2021, just as the pandemic began. Since then, the project has evolved through various planning efforts, including the Woodland District strategic plan adopted in 2013, which aimed to revitalize the area into a vibrant, mixed-use urban neighborhood.

The council's discussions revealed a shared vision for enhancing pedestrian and vehicular access to the district. The entrance runabout is seen as a crucial step in connecting the community to local businesses and events, particularly those at Hunter McPark and Saint Martin's University. The challenge remains, however, in creating safe crossings and effective pathways that encourage foot traffic and improve connectivity.

As the meeting progressed, council members reflected on the importance of this project not just for the Midtown District, but for the city of Lacey as a whole. The entrance runabout is expected to facilitate better access to the area, which has struggled with visibility and connectivity. The council emphasized that successful implementation of this project could lead to further development and revitalization efforts in the district.

In conclusion, the discussions at the Lacey City Council Worksession on April 8, 2025, marked a significant step forward for the Midtown entrance runabout project. With a focus on collaboration and community engagement, the council is poised to transform the area into a bustling hub that reflects the city's vision for a more connected and accessible urban environment. As plans move forward, residents and stakeholders alike are eager to see how this project will unfold and what it will mean for the future of Lacey.