Lake Stevens plans new city hall campus with updated facilities and parking

The Lake Stevens Library Board meeting on April 17, 2025, highlighted significant developments in the city’s infrastructure and community services, particularly focusing on the upcoming construction of a new civic building and the transformation of existing structures into a city hall campus.

One of the most notable discussions centered around the construction of a new facility on Festival Street, which is set to include an upper-level deck and a third-story deck aimed at attracting an active user, such as a restaurant. The project is expected to enter the permitting phase by the end of April, with construction anticipated to begin by August 2025. The timeline suggests that the building could be operational by the same time next year. Funding for this project is sourced from various channels, including proceeds from a property sale, a state grant of approximately $764,000, and existing bond money. Importantly, the financing will not introduce new taxes for residents, as it relies on pre-existing funding sources.

In addition to the new construction, the city plans to repurpose existing buildings in South Lake Stevens into a new city hall campus. This initiative aims to modernize the facilities and consolidate administrative departments, enhancing operational efficiency. The current city hall will be transformed, allowing for increased rental opportunities for community use. The project is also supported by bond funding and grants, ensuring that the financial burden remains manageable for the city.

The discussions also touched on the need for improved parking in the downtown area, which has been identified as a significant deficit. Plans include expanding parking facilities alongside the park to better accommodate residents and visitors.

Overall, the meeting underscored Lake Stevens' commitment to enhancing community infrastructure and services, with a focus on modernizing facilities and improving accessibility. As these projects move forward, they are expected to foster greater community engagement and support local businesses, ultimately contributing to the city's growth and development.