Completed in 1938, Olympic Stadium is a heavy-timber utilitarian structure built to house over 10,000 football and baseball fans.  The stadium was built by the Works Progress Administration (WPA) as a multi-purpose facility.  The stadium measures approximately 390 feet on the south wing, 75 feet on the north wing and 380 feet on the west wing with a depth of 40 feet, rising to a height of approximately 30 feet.  The cedar shingle-sided facility was entered into the National Register of Historic Places on August 22, 2006.  Unique in its use and size, the structure remains the best-preserved and largest standing wooden grandstand in the United States.  The stadium still retains its original location, design, setting, materials, workmanship, and character and is still being used for its original purpose and serves as a point of pride for the community.  In addition to football and baseball events, the stadium is used for a variety of community events such as circuses, concerts, heritage festivals, carnivals, antique car rallies and high school graduation ceremonies.

 

Harbor Architects LLC has assisted the City of Hoquiam with the development of a master plan showing needed and desired improvements, in preparation for various applications for financial assistance.  Multiple phases of improvements will be necessary as funding becomes available.

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Phase 1 of the current project involved the replacement of the aging canopy, while keeping the same look to match the existing building.  The project also involved replacing the sprinkler system and removing a concessions structure which had been built without permit under the grandstands in prior years.  This phase was funded partially through community and commerce grants.

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Phase 2 involves the replacement of a deteriorated end wall, including structural reinforcement.  The existing pier foundation will also be replaced with a continuous concrete foundation.  Additional components of Phase 2 include replacing the plywood, sheathing and shingle siding on the south wall, and a restroom addition to include men and women’s restrooms as well as an ADA restroom.

Phase 1 was completed in early 2021, and construction on Phase 2 is expected to begin in Spring 2022.