Stormwater project on tap at West Bay Park in Olympia

An upcoming stormwater project is taking aim at suspended solids, such as microplastics and trash, that enter Budd Inlet.

The monthlong project is scheduled to begin on Monday, Aug. 18, at West Bay Park.

"This stormwater project is designed to improve water quality by removing 50% to 80% of suspended solids, which include trash, pet waste, tire and brake dust, and microplastics that enter our storm drain system from a 55-acre basin in West Olympia. A vault will trap most of these solids that currently go directly to Budd Inlet," said the City of Olympia Public Works Department in a  constrution and traffic alert.

"The awarded contractor, Russ Construction, is scheduled to begin August 18, 2025, through late September. The improvement will be made within the pedestrian trail to West Bay Park at the intersection of West Bay Drive and Brawne Avenue."

Construction impacts will include the following:

• Noise from construction work: Expect equipment noise during working hours between 7 a.m. and 6 p.m. 
• Temporary West Bay Park Trail access closure: Installation of the pretreatment stormwater vault requires closure of trail access to West Bay Park at the intersection of West Bay Drive and Brawne Avenue. Closure of the park trail access could last up to five weeks.
• Traffic delays: People driving and biking can expect minor traffic delays from construction work.

For more information contact Project Engineer James Patton at 360-753-8749 or via email at jpatton@ci.olympia.wa.us.