community spring 2022
Brewery Park Discovery Center to Preserve Rich Tumwater History Gifted to the community in 1962, Brewery Park at Tumwater Falls is among the country’s largest privately owned parks and is treasured by over 250,000 visitors each year. Funded entirely by the Olympia Tumwater Foundation, the 15-acre Brewery Park features walking trails highlighted by cascading waterfalls, reflective pools, and massive rock formations, as well as picnic areas, impeccably maintained lawns, a playground, restrooms, and a maintenance facility. To ensure this slice of paradise is maintained and equipped to serve the community for decades to come, the Foundation plans to renovate and expand the existing facility into a sustainable multipurpose events and educational center. The proposed $7.5M Brewery Park Discovery Center would have a positive economic impact on Thurston County beyond the duration of the construction project, creating jobs, attracting additional visitors, and generating new tax revenue. The Center has the support of local and state leaders, Chambers of Commerce, and the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife. Also, the Brewery Park Discovery Center will complement the expanded salmon hatchery and the City of Tumwater’s new walking/cycling trail. Lee Wojnar, President of the Olympia Tumwater Foundation and VP of Marketing at OBee Credit Union, says, “The Center will house a vital part of Washington’s history that might otherwise fade into oblivion when vacant brewery buildings are gone. We envision the Discovery Center 8
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