# City of Anacortes - City Council & Port Commission Joint Meeting (10/5/26)

At the City of Anacortes and Port Commission special joint meeting on October 5, 2026, officials reviewed the West Basin waterfront redevelopment and proposed event facility. The Port described an approximately $16 million investment in site infrastructure, road realignment, stormwater, parking, and development-ready pads. The event facility is at 90% design, with a construction bid expected within weeks; if bids and funding align, construction could begin in early 2027, with the facility and park targeted for completion in the first quarter of 2028. The facility’s estimated construction cost is $10.4 million, of which the City’s share is about $8.5 million. Funding discussed included $1.4 million from lodging-tax reserves, a $500,000 state appropriation, and a $750,000 county grant, with remaining financing needs and estimates questioned during discussion. Restaurant RFPs are open, developer interest has been reported for Pads A and B, and the Port plans to reissue a hotel RFP after the event facility breaks ground. No bids were awarded and no votes or spending actions were taken at this meeting.

Discussion and public comment addressed operating and financing risks, expected occupancy and hotel development, parking and sewer capacity, construction cost contingencies, and the extent of public outreach. Supporters cited potential tourism, downtown spending, and community-event benefits; several council members and speakers called for additional financial clarity and public engagement before construction commitments. The proposed agreement reserves 12 days annually for City access, including reduced-rate availability for nonprofits. Officials said bid results would provide firmer cost information for the next funding decision.

**Jurisdictions:** sled
**Industries:** Construction & Infrastructure
**Topics:** Physical Infrastructure
**Published:** October 05, 2026

### Sources
- [City of Anacortes - City Council & Port Commission Joint Meeting (10/5/26)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l87DEBTmzSk) - City of Anacortes