HBB architecture previews Chehalis downtown rejuvenation project to city council

The Chehalis City Council meeting on March 24, 2025, highlighted significant progress on the downtown rejuvenation project, a key initiative aimed at revitalizing the heart of the community. Aaron Loma from HBB Architecture and Landscaping presented an update on the project, emphasizing the importance of community feedback in shaping the final design.

Loma explained that the project is nearing completion, with a focus on enhancing the downtown area's vibrancy and safety. The design aims to reflect the community's identity and history while improving pedestrian access and mobility. Importantly, the proposed changes will not reduce parking availability; instead, they will reorganize existing spaces to better serve local businesses and residents.

The council was informed that the project has undergone three phases of public engagement, gathering input from residents through surveys and open house events. Key findings from these engagements revealed concerns about traffic speed, pedestrian safety, and the preservation of the downtown's historic character. The design team has been working closely with city staff to address these issues, ensuring that the final plan is both practical and appealing.

As the project moves forward, Loma noted that the council's support is crucial for securing grant funding from state and federal agencies. While the council was not asked to adopt the plan at this meeting, the feedback gathered will be instrumental in refining the design before a formal adoption in the future.

In addition to the downtown project update, the meeting also included discussions on other community initiatives, though the rejuvenation project remained the focal point. The council's commitment to enhancing the downtown area reflects a broader goal of fostering economic growth and improving the quality of life for Chehalis residents. As the project progresses, the community can look forward to a revitalized downtown that better meets their needs and celebrates their shared identity.