DES wants to hear from you!
We are improving our website and want to know how it can better serve you. Take this survey to make des.wa.gov more useful.
We are improving our website and want to know how it can better serve you. Take this survey to make des.wa.gov more useful.
The Legislature directed DES to oversee work for Legislative Campus Modernization (LCM) to address space needs of legislative agencies and critical issues with the Irving R. Newhouse, Joel Pritchard State Library, and John L. O'Brien buildings. The project will take place over the next several years. View the proviso language found in Section 1111 of the 2021 Capital Budget, SHB 1080.SL.
The scope of LCM is comprised of a series of subprojects located on different sites on the West Capitol Campus. In general, the first major step for each project was site analysis and design work. These steps included stakeholder engagement as well as technical studies. At this time, both the Irving R. Newhouse and Joel M. Pritchard projects are in the active phases. Work on the John L. O'Brien Building will begin in 2026.
We are now publishing the LCM weekly update to keep campus tenants, visitors and local residents up-to-date on planned LCM construction work and how it impacts the campus.
DES is pleased to announce the reopening of the Pedestrian Bridge on Monday, Nov. 18. The bridge crosses Capitol Way and connects East Capitol Campus with West Capitol Campus.
Pedestrians entering and leaving the West Campus via the bridge need to be aware that there are still restricted areas as crews put the finishing touches on the Irving R. Newhouse Building. Restricted areas are clearly marked. Please avoid these areas.
The Pedestrian Bridge was closed shortly after the 2023 legislative session before demolition of the original Irving R. Newhouse Building. Construction of the new building began in the summer of 2023 and the building will open before the beginning of the 2025 legislative session.
For detailed information about the Irving R. Newhouse and Joel M. Pritchard projects, use the links below.
How can I stay up to date on Legislative Campus Modernization (LCM) projects?
LCM produces a weekly update that outlines accomplishments and upcoming work on all projects. Subscribe to receive these Weekly Updates.
Why were the press houses (Carlyon House and Ayer House) removed?
The press houses were demolished to make room for DES to prepare the site to accommodate the construction of the Irving R. Newhouse Building replacement.
Why was the LCM predesign done, and how were its goals determined?
DES was directed to conduct the Legislative Campus Modernization predesign by the Legislature (ESSB 6248, Section 1027, Chapter 356, Laws of 2020 and ESSB 6095, Section 1035, Chapter 298, Laws of 2018). These legislative provisos identify the goals for the predesign, and appropriate funding for the predesign.
What does the LCM predesign identify for further study?
The Legislative Campus Modernization predesign examines options to replace the Irving R. Newhouse Building, replace or renovate the Joel M. Pritchard Building, and to renovate the third and fourth floors of the John L. O'Brien Building. It examines options to address life-safety concerns as well as issues with safety and security and failing operational systems. The analysis also includes options to maintain or increase the parking capacity of the Capitol Campus, meet net zero energy ready standards and an energy use intensity (EUI) of less than 35, and provide temporary office space during construction.
In addition to providing an alternatives analysis, the LCM predesign identifies design considerations that will require further investigation and analysis. In general, these include:
The LCM predesign builds on a number of planning resources, like the 2017 State Capitol Development Study, which supplement the 2006 Master Plan. Learn more about the State Capitol Master Plan and supplemental planning resources here.
What are the issues with existing buildings?
Irving R. Newhouse Building
Joel M. Pritchard State Library
John L. O'Brien Building
For more information, contact: DESLCM@des.wa.gov
If you need an accessible version of the Legislative Campus Modernization (LCM) Predesign Report, please contact accessibility@des.wa.gov at (360) 407-8200.