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Lakewood seeks $200,000 in state assistance to stabilize H Barn silos at Fort Steilacoom Park
Summary
Councilmember Branstetter asked legislators for $200,000 to retrofit two silos at Fort Steilacoom Park's H Barn, saying Partners for Parks raised $3.5 million and that the full project is estimated in the mid-range around $9 million; the city said lodging-tax funds of $2 million have been allocated but the $50,000 city contribution has not yet been voted.
Councilmember Branstetter presented a capital request for Fort Steilacoom Park's distinctive H Barn, calling the structure two connected barns with two silos and saying Partners for Parks already raised $3.5 million in private donations toward a broader reuse project.
Branstetter asked the legislative delegation for $200,000 specifically to retrofit and stabilize the silos now so they will remain available when the community completes the larger renovation. He said the total project cost depends on final interior scope and design but that estimates have been in a range from roughly $7 million to $13 million, with a mid-range estimate around $9 million.
A legislator asked whether the city had already voted to commit $50,000 as local match. Branstetter said some city funds have already been spent for early work, the lodging-tax advisory committee recommended $2,000,000 for the project and the lodging-tax package including $2,000,000 has been voted on, but the specific $50,000 council vote had not yet occurred and was expected before the end of the year.
Branstetter and the mayor argued that stabilizing the silos earlier (2026 request) protects fragile historic elements and will sustain momentum for fundraising.
Next steps: City staff will pursue 60% design and the council expects to vote on the local funding contribution later this year; the city requested legislative consideration of the $200,000 stabilization ask.
