Briahna Murray, Gordon Thomas Honeywell (GTH) presentation summary to the March 15, 2023, CCWC Meeting

GTH is working with the owners of the old paper mill site in Steilacoom to develop a public-private partnership for the Garrison Creek Restoration project. The 71-acre paper mill site was built in 1919 and abandoned in 2000. The current owners are planning a mixed-use development on the north portion of the property and creek restoration in the south portion. GTH is helping the City of Steilacoom to secure grants and helping HDG craft an easement along the creek that will be granted to Steilacoom.

The creek needs restoration because of its historical diversion and coverage by the papermill structures, preventing a natural habitat for any wildlife. The freshwater Garrison Creek runs into the saltwater of Chambers Bay, creating a needed aquatic component for salmon habitat. The creek flows naturally until it reaches the manmade waterfall, after which it flows through a series of grates underground. The creek water then flows over concrete before flushing into the bay.

While a large portion of the site will be developed for homes and businesses, plans are underway to restore the riparian area of the creek with shaded buffers and more natural meandering of the proposed daylighted creek. The creek will probably run through a bridge culvert allowing it to flow into the bay.

The landowners are donating the south portion of the property to the city of Steilacoom. This donation serves as matching funds for restoration grants. As of March 2023, GTH has helped the city apply for over $2 million in grant funds.