The Cheyenne City Council convened on July 4, 2025, for a work session focused on the historical significance and future of the Pumphouse, in collaboration with Cheyenne Historic Incorporated (HCI). The meeting highlighted the Pumphouse's potential as a community asset, emphasizing its historical roots and the opportunity for public engagement.

The session began with a presentation detailing the Pumphouse's history and its connection to the Capitol Basin drainage plan, which established a wetlands area for public enjoyment in 2012. This area not only serves as a potential park but also as an educational space that underscores the ecological importance of wetlands in maintaining water quality and providing habitats. The proposed greenway path around the Pumphouse aims to enhance connectivity for bikers and walkers, linking them safely to downtown Cheyenne.

Discussion points included the Pumphouse's eligibility for the National Register of Historic Places, with ongoing efforts to secure this designation. The building is viewed as a keystone for the West Edge Development, situated at a critical junction of community goals and attractions. HCI representatives expressed a strong desire to preserve the structure, citing historical editorials that advocate for its restoration as a symbol of Cheyenne's pioneer heritage.

Council members raised questions regarding the building's current condition and the complexities involved in its preservation. Concerns were voiced about the structural integrity of the Pumphouse, particularly regarding its location in a floodplain and the implications for insurance and development. The conversation also touched on the estimated costs for mothballing the building, with some council members suggesting that the projected $1 million might be excessive.

The meeting concluded with a call for further exploration of public-private partnerships to support the Pumphouse's restoration. Council members acknowledged the need for better stewardship of city properties, expressing regret over the current state of the Pumphouse and the importance of preserving Cheyenne's historical assets for future generations. The council plans to revisit the topic in upcoming sessions, with a focus on actionable steps to secure the Pumphouse's future.