Committee moves Stantec amendment to add tree survey and biological assessment for Pioneer Park sediment project

The Tumwater Public Works Committee on Nov. 6 recommended that the City Council place Amendment 4 to the Stantec service provider agreement for the Pioneer Park sediment reduction (restoration) project on the Nov. 18 consent calendar and authorize the mayor to sign. City staff presenting the item said the amendment adds two tasks that were not included in the original scope: a detailed tree survey covering the project action area to address the city tree ordinance and a biological assessment required for Endangered Species Act review and permitting.

Presenting staff (Grant) said the biological assessment is needed to complete environmental permitting packets for both Phase 1 (riparian restoration work) and Phase 2 (in‑water work) because ESA protections extend into riparian zones used as essential habitat. The amendment adds $48,417 to Phase 1 costs; staff stated the addition keeps the Phase 1 work within the Phase 1 budget listed in the materials as $450,781.50.

Grant described Phase 1 activities as riparian restoration, some rechannelization and drainage adjustments intended to reduce fine sediment loading to the Deschutes River and ultimately to Capitol Lake. He said the city aims to submit 100% design and permitting applications in the coming weeks, begin construction toward the end of the dry season next summer, and complete major planting in the fall while respecting fish‑window timing. Phase 2 in‑water permitting will take longer; staff said they hope to construct Phase 2 in 2027.

The committee approved recommending Amendment 4 for placement on the Nov. 18 consent calendar by voice vote.