Title
Approval of a Resolution Authorizing a Grant Agreement with the Washington State Department of Ecology for a Stormwater Retrofit Project
Recommended Action
Committee Recommendation:
Not referred to a committee.
City Manager Recommendation:
Move to approve a Resolution authorizing a Grant agreement with the Washington State Department of Ecology for a Stormwater Retrofit Project.
Report Issue:
Whether to approve a Resolution authorizing a Grant agreement with the Washington State Department of Ecology for a Stormwater Retrofit Project.
Staff Contact:
Fran Love, Stormwater Engineer, Public Works Water Resources, 360.753.8397
Presenter:
None - Consent Calendar Item.
Background and Analysis:
The Stormwater Retrofit Project will improve water quality in Budd Inlet by installing six bioretention swales with underdrains in city owned right-of-way. The project area is located along Rogers Street (between Langridge Avenue and Hays Avenue) and Hays Avenue (between Rogers Street and Cedar Lane).
The proposed improvements will treat stormwater runoff by removing pollutants such as total suspended solids, copper, and zinc. The project will also reduce localized surface flooding on Rogers Street by diverting peak flows and providing stormwater retention. In total, the project will provide treatment for 16.6 acres of previously untreated drainage area.
These improvements will enhance pedestrian safety and walkability and are occurring as a result of coordination between the Storm and Surface Water Utility (Utility) and the Transportation Division.
Sidewalks will be constructed concurrently on the west side of Rogers Street between Langridge Avenue and Hays Avenue, improving pedestrian safety and walkability. This work reflects coordination between the Storm and Surface Water Utility and the Transportation Division.
To support construction, the Utility secured a Washington State Department of Ecology Water Quality Financial Assistance Grant in the amount of $759,220, with a required local match of $133,980. Sidewalk construction, estimated at $116,947, will be funded by Transportation. The grant term is two years. This award follows a prior Department of Ecology design-only grant of $24,538, which included a $51,378 local match.
The Green Stormwater Retrofit at Rogers and Hays Project is included in the City’s adopted 2026-2031 Capital Facilities Plan, with $100,000 programmed in 2026.
Climate Analysis:
The Green Stormwater Retrofit at Rogers and Hays will increase street side retention capacity along the corridor, helping to reduce localized flooding associated with more frequent and intense rainfall events anticipated due to climate change.
Equity Analysis:
Since the majority of project funding is provided through a grant, the project maximizes the benefit of limited Storm and Surface Water Utility resources for all rate payers. Improved water quality in Budd Inlet will benefit all residents and visitors.
This project also improves water quality within the usual and accustomed area of the Squaxin Island Tribe.
Neighborhood/Community Interests (if known):
Water quality improvement projects consistently receive support from the Utility Advisory Committee (UAC) and the broader community. During the design phase, the Northwest Olympia Neighborhood expressed interest in incorporating sidewalks into the project. In response, the Storm and Surface Water Utility and Transportation Division collaborated to incorporate sidewalk improvements along Rogers Street from Langridge Avenue to Hays Avenue into this stormwater retrofit project.
Financial Impact:
The total estimated project cost is $1,010,147:
• Up to $759,220 will be funded through the Department of Ecology Grant
• $133,980 will be provided as a Storm and Surface Water Utility match
• $116,947 will fund sidewalk construction through Transportation funds
The total City contribution is estimated at $250,927.
Options:
1. Move to approve a Resolution authorizing a Grant agreement with the Washington State Department of Ecology for a Stormwater Retrofit Project.
This option enables the City to receive grant funding and proceed with construction of stormwater improvements that enhance water quality and reduce flooding.
2. Direct staff to return with additional information before taking action. This option would delay project implementation and may jeopardize grant funding, potentially requiring the Utility to bear full project costs.
3. Do not approve the Resolution. This option would forgo grant funding, delay or eliminate planned stormwater improvements, and may also postpone associated sidewalk construction.
Attachments:
Resolution
Agreement