Site work to begin on Elder Center

By Clare Jensen

For Puyallup Tribal News
cjensen@tacomaweekly.com
Published on: August 07, 2008

It’s now August, and that means site work on the much anticipated Elder Center has begun.

“After 20 years of planning, construction has finally begun on the Elder Center. The hard work of not only this council but councils from the past…have made this dream come true,” said Tribal Councilmember James Miles.

The “design assist” process began on Aug. 4 with pre-construction mobilization. The design assist process will go through November, when construction begins, and the timeline until that point allows for work to begin and projects to go to bid while design is wrapping up simultaneously.

Visitors to the Puyallup Tribal Health Authority and Emerald Queen Casino will notice the adjoining parking lots are now vacant with blockades at the entrances and construction trailers set up.

Perimeter security has been established, as well as the construction site layout, power and project signage. A survey of the site is also underway.

On Aug. 12, the site work will go to bid, and on Aug. 25 the mechanical and electrical package will be sent out for request for proposals (RFP) to perform a design/build scope of work.  The RFP is going out to a select list that includes Native-American firms.

In mid-September, a job fair hosted by BN Builder’s and the Puyallup Tribe of Indians, Design & Construction Management Team and TERO will be held, and interested parties should attend to see possible job opportunities.

By Sept. 30, the building package goes to bid and includes foundation, framing, mechanical and electrical components, structural and landscaping.

One month later, the interior-finishes package goes to bid and includes everything from carpet, to painting, to signage and furniture.

And if all goes according to plan, drivers-by will begin to see physical construction on the horizon of the vast parking lot overlooking 1-5. One year later, elders will be walking through the door of the center they helped design, and have waited for so long to enjoy.

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