The Washougal Towncenter Revitalization Project has been named the Top Project of the Year by the Vancouver Business Journal (VBJ), recognized as one of the most impactful construction and development efforts in Southwest Washington this year.

The project was one of more than two dozen honored at VBJ’s annual Top Projects event, ranging from public infrastructure upgrades to large-scale private developments. The “Top Project” award is only given in years when a project stands out as having the potential to make a real difference in its community—and Washougal’s Towncenter did just that.

“It’s just really exciting to see the work that’s been happening downtown get recognized in this way. We’ve been working hard to create a place where people want to spend time—whether they live here, work here, or are just visiting,” said Mayor David Stuebe.

The project’s focus on accessibility, inclusivity for all ages and abilities, and community connectivity helped it stand out during the selection process. According to VBJ, this award is reserved for projects that help shape the future of a community—not just physically, but through long-term benefit and positive change. The project was nominated by Robertson Fick, the engineering firm leading the design effort.

“We’re incredibly proud to be part of this project,” said Jeremy Fick, partner and project managing engineer with Robertson Fick. “It’s been rewarding to help bring this vision to life—and now that construction is underway and the award has come in, there’s a real sense of momentum and excitement.”

Project Manager Jason VanAalsburg added, “This award is really for the whole team—City Council, City staff, and all our project partners, Robertson Fick Engineering and Shapiro Didway. It’s nice to get some recognition, but more than anything, we’re just excited to keep making progress and see the community start to enjoy the space.”

Fall 2025 Project Update

The revitalization is currently about 50% complete. Phase 1, which included three new parking lots and right-of-way (ROW) improvements, is nearly finished. The project now transitions into Phase 2, which will bring to life the public park amenities that are central to the vision:

• A splash pad and playground
• A dog park and outdoor gathering areas
• Passive greenspace and seating for all ages
• ADA-compliant pathways and features
• Enhanced access to nearby businesses, the library, and the community center

Recent progress includes:

• Completion of all asphalt paving and sidewalks in the ROW
• Installation of pavers and preparation for landscaping
• Ongoing work on internal stormwater systems and electrical infrastructure
• Concrete prep around the ‘C’ Street parking lot and east entrance to City Hall

A key upcoming milestone is the reopening of ‘C’ Street and opening of the new parking lot, anticipated the week of October 6.

The project remains on schedule, with substantial completion expected by early spring 2026 (March/April)—just in time for the community to enjoy the new amenities as the weather warms up.

The Towncenter Revitalization Project directly supports the City of Washougal’s strategic plan priority to elevate quality of life through a vibrant downtown—a place where people can live, work, learn, gather, and play. By transforming underused space into a central hub for recreation, commerce, and community life, the project is helping build a stronger, more connected Washougal.

This project was made possible in part through funding secured in the 2023 state capital budget, thanks to the efforts of our legislative delegation at the time. We are grateful to then-Senator Lynda Wilson, Senator Paul Harris and Representative Kevin Waters for their support in helping to bring this vision to life. We sincerely thank them for their commitment to our community and their role in making this project a reality.

Learn about this project at https://www.cityofwashougal.us/TowncenterProject.

Pictured: Jeremy Fick, Robertson Fick Engineering; Joe Walsh, City of Washougal; Nate Otani, Shapiro Didway

Media Contact

Michele Loftus
Communications Manager, City of Washougal
michele.loftus@cityofwashougal.us
360-835-8501 x107