Olympia Approved Jolene Unsoeld Park Contract

The city awarded a $17.7 million construction contract to Active Construction Inc. for the new community park.

Updated on Oct. 9, 2026 in Philanthropy

Olympia Approved Jolene Unsoeld Park Contract

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Olympia City Council has approved a $17.7 million contract for the first phase of construction at the Jolene Unsoeld Community Park. Active Construction Inc. secured the project with a bid that came in 26 percent below initial staff estimates.

Why it matters

This approval initiates the primary construction phase outlined in the park's master plan, which was first adopted by the city in 2022. The development replaces the former Yelm Highway Community Park project to provide new recreation space for residents.

The city has secured $26.63 million in total funding, supported by $2.85 million in state grants and smaller pledges from local groups. The contract includes a 10 percent construction contingency and a 1 percent arts contribution fee.

The players

Active Construction Inc.

This is the construction firm selected to lead the first phase of the park development.

Olympia City Council

This is the municipal legislative body responsible for overseeing the city's infrastructure and public funding.

Sounders RAVE Foundation

This is a non-profit organization focused on building soccer mini-pitches to increase access to recreational facilities.

The details

The project site, located near Yelm Highway and Wiggins Road, will undergo an 18 to 24 month construction process. In addition to general park infrastructure, the site will feature a soccer mini-pitch donated by the Sounders RAVE Foundation.

The city council approved the park master plan in 2022.
The city council officially renamed the site in January 2026.
City officials approved the construction contract on October 8, 2026.
The project is expected to break ground in late 2026.

Market Landscape

This project moves the city closer to realizing the goals set out in the 2022 park master plan. By leveraging a mix of state grants and local partnerships, the municipality is expanding its recreational footprint amid regional population growth.

Residents can anticipate the start of construction on the new facility near Yelm Highway and Wiggins Road by the end of the year. The development will eventually provide expanded local recreational amenities, including a new soccer mini-pitch for public use.

The takeaway

The successful bidding process for this project demonstrates the city's ability to maximize public funds by securing contracts significantly below initial cost estimates. Future park development will continue to rely on a mix of bond funds, mitigation fees, and community contributions.