Kent building KeyHawk operations center and acquiring new administrative building; police headquarters to move into Centennial Building

Mayor Dana Ralph described two large facilities projects underway: the Kent East Hill operations center (KeyHawk) and a new Administrative Services Building created from a recently purchased call-center property.

KeyHawk, under construction across from Clark Lake Park, is intended to provide additional space for parks and public-works staff, expanded police evidence storage and an information-technology data center, the mayor said. "KeyHawk will support maintenance and operation staff for both parks and public works, as well as an expansion of our Kent Police evidence storage," she said, and the city plans to open the facility later this year.

Ralph said the city purchased a former BECU call center in the valley and is evaluating the work required to move staff into the site. She said City Hall facilities no longer meet staff needs and noted that council chambers will remain downtown; the remainder of City Hall functions are planned to shift into the Centennial Building, with part of that building designated for a new police headquarters.

The mayor thanked the council for approving contracts at a recent meeting that advance the purchases and repurposing. She said the Russell Road Shops facility used by maintenance staff is more than 30 years old and that KeyHawk will help modernize operations and equipment storage.

Design details, construction budgets and firm schedules were not provided in the speech; the mayor said the moves aim to improve efficiency and prepare the city for future growth.