CONTACT:  Susan Melnyk, Chief Communications Manager, (360) 867-2097 or susan.melnyk@co.thurston.wa.us

Thurston County Completes Major Water and Sewer Improvements to Protect Puget Sound and Local Communities 
The projects were funded entirely by American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) dollars.

OLYMPIA – Thurston County completed significant improvements to the sewer and water systems serving the communities of Boston Harbor and Tamoshan, marking an important milestone in the County’s continued investment in reliable infrastructure and environmental protection.

Thurston County Commissioner Carolina Mejia joined community members and county officials on Wednesday, October 15, to recognize the work and federal funding that made the Boston Harbor project possible. “By investing American Rescue Plan Act dollars to update a 40-year-old system, we’re showing how federal and local partnerships deliver real benefits for taxpayers,” she said. “Federal funding helps local governments like Thurston County meet future environmental standards, show our commitment to environmental stewardship, and mitigate costs our rate payers would otherwise have to pay.”

Both projects were funded through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), a federal program designed to help communities recover from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. The County secured ARPA funding to address aging water and sewer systems without passing additional costs on to the community. Without this funding, the cost of upgrades would have been passed to ratepayers, placing a greater burden on the communities.

“These projects are about more than pipes and pumps,” said Tye Menser, Chair of the Board of County Commissioners, during the ribbon cutting at Tamoshan on October 20. “They’re about protecting the environment, improving reliability, and investing in the future of our communities. Whether you live in Boston Harbor, Tamoshan, or downtown Olympia, Thurston County is committed to finding creative funding solutions that benefit everyone.”

About the Projects

Boston Harbor
The Boston Harbor Water and Sewer Infrastructure Replacement Project replaced more than 6,000 feet of aging water main, upgraded and improved the Septic Tank Effluent Pump (STEP) tanks that begin the wastewater treatment process, and installed new, lockable, lightweight manhole lids. These upgrades reduce water loss (which had previously reached up to 15 percent), improve access and safety for operators, and prevent saltwater infiltration into the system—all while improving water quality and protecting Puget Sound.

Tamoshan
In Tamoshan, the project replaced all water service connections from main to meter, installed a specialized liner inside sewer pipes to prevent leaks and blockages, and replaced the ravine crossing with a continuous High-Density Polyethylene pipe for greater reliability. The improvements will decrease future maintenance needs, improve safety, and extend the life of the system.

Both communities faced challenges common to infrastructure upgrades, such as unmapped infrastructure and the need for coordination among multiple stakeholders. County officials thanked the County’s Public Works staff and crews for working closely with contractors and residents to quickly resolve issues and maintain communication throughout construction.

“These projects show what happens when federal investment, local leadership, and dedicated staff come together,” said Public Works Director Karen Weiss. “I’m grateful to our Board of County Commissioners for prioritizing these projects and to our County Public Works staff for their hard work and dedication. We’re excited to continue building a stronger, safer, and more sustainable Thurston County.”

Protecting Puget Sound and Supporting Community Growth

By addressing infiltration and inflow issues, both projects directly support water quality and environmental health in Puget Sound. The improvements also strengthen the County’s ability to meet future regulatory requirements.

A Countywide Commitment to Service

The County’s Public Works staff received positive feedback from residents in both communities for their professionalism, communication, and care during construction.

To learn more about the County’s Public Works projects, visit the county’s website at https://www.thurstoncountywa.gov/departments/public-works.