Vashon Center for the Arts: Construction Update

Sellen Construction began earthwork following the demolition of the existing structures on the site. Materials were recycled or properly disposed, and the ground cleared of stumps and brambles. Old underground tanks were decommissioned and removed. Testing showed that there were no toxic materials in the soil. Mass excavation has begun along the east side of the site for the new building’s orchestra pit, mechanical plenum and stage. The north water detention vault is under way, with basement slabs and footings taking shape as concrete is placed throughout the month.

Jeff Church, Brock Smith and Nels Lindgren—members of Sellen’s construction team—reside on Vashon Island year-round.  “This project is awesome and it’s fantastic to do something in the community,” says Nels Lindgren. His daughter, Ady, has danced with VAA Center for Dance since 2013. In two productions of The Nutcracker, she performed the roles of Mouse and Little Nutcracker Doll, and looks forward to dancing on the new stage in 2016. “The arts center will be a great addition to the Island.”

“I live a mile down the road,” says Smith. “For all the years I’ve commuted off the Island…this is heaven.” All three are glad to be a part of the project and happy to help make Vashon Center for the Arts a reality.

Please visit VashonCenterForTheArts.org for periodic updates, photographs and time-lapse videos of construction progress.