Well before prohibition, the Olympia Brewing Company established its roots in Tumwater. The famous brewery buildings are an iconic part of the Thurston County landscape. The Olympia beer logo graces varied items including O Bee Credit Union’s credit card. The logo’s script has been replicated numerous times.
But, right now, the historical building with immense potential is vacant.
Enter Michael Matthias. Matthias’ task is simple in its description and complex in its implementation.
Matthias is charged with serving as the Brewery Project Manager – essentially the point person to coordinate priorities between the public and private sectors to bring about feasible, sustainable development on the site.
“This story is not about me,” remarks Matthias immediately. “It’s really about the leadership and residents of the City of Tumwater, Thurston Economic Development Council (EDC), LOTT, other jurisdictions, property owners, and community stakeholders.”
“All these partners are looking for positive ways to create vibrancy and appropriate development that embraces environmental considerations and sustainability efforts while highlighting the wonderful historical value of the brewery building,” adds Matthias.
The position was developed to find ways to focus attention and efforts on “what needs to happen next.”
Matthias’ extensive work history includes similar projects. It’s clear that he understands the nature of public and private partnerships to keep projects moving forward.
“Matthias brings to his position a strong background of successful public and private project management experience and was most recently responsible for managing the City of Sammamish Town Center project,” says Renée Sunde, EDC Marketing and Business Development Director.
John Doan, Tumwater City Administrator, says that “we are excited to have Matthias’ talents and experience on this project and look forward to this partnership with the EDC in part because it recognizes the regional significance of the brewery site.”
Is it a blank slate? Are all ideas on the table?
“With great community participation, the City of Tumwater has done significant work to identify a vision for the site,” remarks Matthias. As ideas are proposed, Matthias and his team will refer back to the vision document to make sure that it’s a fit.
Matthias has many issues to consider as he begins this project. “A number of public sector pieces have to align. For example, the shoreline master plan has to both protect the shoreline and adjacent areas while providing for some level of development and the zoning has to be consistent with what developers are looking to accomplish,” he states.
Similarly, the infrastructure needs to be able to support the development. For example, incremental roadway improvements may be considered to increase access to the site and make the project more feasible to a potential developer.
Plus, Matthias will be considering the impact of economic development on the surrounding neighborhoods and adjacent properties. Questions, such as how do consumers easily access the parcel from the interstate, what parking is available, and what congestion would this project create on local intersections; will be researched as the project unfolds.
To move the Brewery Project forward, Matthias will work to facilitate appropriate development patterns by talking with stakeholders, using the EDC’s resources, reviewing consultant and vision reports, and working within the parameters of the regulatory structure.
Matthias then becomes the point person to work with potential developers. He will manage the process between the priorities of a developer wishing to make a substantial investment and the public sector’s interest in desired economic activity.
The balancing act may be challenging as each side considers its willingness to commit resources.
“There is no ‘right answer,’ no guide – projects just unfold by asking ‘what if’?” says Matthias who is enthusiastic and optimistic about the potential for brewery redevelopment.
