Design Coordination

DES is continuing to engage the Squaxin Island Tribe and key project partners during design and permitting.

Process Map

This map graphically depicts the anticipated schedule and process for project design and permitting.

Meetings are being held during the design and permitting process to solicit input on the design from key project partners and stakeholders. Additional stakeholder coordination will be defined as the project progresses.

Before and throughout the EIS, the project leveraged advisory groups composed of Tribal representatives and governmental partners and agencies that have jurisdiction or regulatory authority within the project area. These groups met on multiple occasions to provide policy-level feedback, represent interests of their constituents, assist in review of technical materials, and consider a shared funding and governance model. Video recordings of these meetings are available on the meetings page.

Funding and Governance

The Funding and Governance Work Group was reconvened in early 2022 after DES identified the Estuary Alternative as the likely preferred alternative for long-term management. In fall 2022, the Funding and Governance Work Group executed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to memorialize broad areas of conceptual agreement regarding shared funding and governance for long-term management of the Estuary Alternative. After construction of the estuary, maintenance dredging will be needed in West Bay. Shared funding is expected to be provided by members of the Funding and Governance Work Group through 2050 for the maintenance dredging. In summer 2024, DES and the Funding and Governance Work Group finalized an Interlocal Agreement for this shared funding and governance approach, and final signatures were received in November 2024.