CENTRALIA WASHINGTON WWW.CITYOFCENTRALIA.COM A CITY ROOTED IN LEGACY
CENTRALIA, WA A CITY ROOTE AT A GLANCE CENTRALIA, WASHINGTON WHAT: A beautiful city focused on top tier education and infrastructure WHERE: Washington, USA WEBSITE: www.cityofcentralia.com 1 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 09
ED IN LEGACY GROWING TOWARD THE FUTURE As the City of Centralia, Washington, celebrates its 150th anniversary, it does so with a deep sense of pride and progress. Once a hub for timber and coal, Centralia has transformed into a city of innovation, education, and inclusive community spirit. At the heart of this renaissance is a focus on honoring the past while investing strategically 2 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 09
in the future—a vision that is driving economic diversification, infrastructure development, educational opportunity, and housing expansion. The city’s celebration this year is doubly significant: not only is Centralia turning 150, but Centralia College—one of the state’s oldest community colleges—is also celebrating its 100th anniversary. These dual milestones have become a springboard for the city to showcase its heritage, invest in youth, and build momentum for the decades ahead. HONORING A LEGACY OF INCLUSION Centralia’s origin story is as inspirational as it is unique. Founded by George Washington, a freed Black man, the city stands as one of the few in the Pacific Northwest with a Black founder. His legacy of inclusion, community service, and resilience continues to define the city’s values today. Throughout 2025, Centralia honored its founder through a series of events, including a Juneteenth Celebration and Founders Day,both of which highlight his remarkable story and enduring influence. Banners along Centralia’s main street now display George Washington’s symbology, a visible reminder of the city’s commitment to unity and diversity. “The story of George Washington sets a powerful tone for who we are and who we want to be,” said one city representative. “His vision of community continues to guide our growth.” STRATEGIC EDUCATIONAL PARTNERSHIPS Education is a cornerstone of Centralia’s economic and social development strategy.The city maintains close ties with both Centralia School District and Centralia College, working collaboratively to ensure students are equipped with the skills, confidence, and resources needed to succeed. Dr. Lisa Grant, the district’s superintendent, recently passed a tax levy that supports vital K–12 programs and infrastructure. The district also partners with the city on workforce initiatives, such as student placements in public works positions to gain early exposure to civic careers. One standout collaboration involves United Way, 3 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 09 CENTRALIA, WA
Centralia College, and Centralia School District. This initiative provides housing and college courses to selected high school juniors and students experiencing homelessness. “We want to remove barriers to education,” said a city official.“Whether it’s housing insecurity or financial limitations, we are building a support system so students can thrive.” CENTRALIA COLLEGE: WORKFORCE PIPELINE FOR THE REGION Centralia College plays a pivotal role in preparing residents for careers in critical sectors. In recent years, the college has developed and expanded programs that directly connect students to high-demand local employment opportunities—including nursing, CDL (commercial driver’s license) certification, and industrial trades. As the local economy evolves away from its historical reliance on the TransAlta coal-fired power plant, the college has stepped up as a regional hub for workforce development. Retraining programs, vocational certifications, and hands-on technical training are equipping the next generation of skilled workers. The ripple effect is clear: graduates of Centralia College’s nursing program are finding employment locally, many at Centralia’s expanding hospital. Meanwhile, students in technical programs are securing positions in transportation, construction, and infrastructure—helping meet the city’s demand for talent. REIMAGINING THE ECONOMY Centralia is no longer defined solely by its industrial past. While the timber and coal industries once dominated the landscape, today’s Centralia is characterized by a diversified economy powered by retail, tourism, small business, healthcare, and higher education. The Centralia Downtown Association has played a key role in revitalizing the city’s core, bringing new energy and entrepreneurship into the historic downtown district. At the same time, the city is capitalizing on its central location and growing 4 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 09
interest in sports tourism to attract visitors and stimulate local commerce. Outlet malls and sporting tournaments are helping to draw both foot traffic and outside investment, while efforts to improve infrastructure are making Centralia more attractive for future growth. HOUSING ON THE RISE Centralia’s approach to housing is both strategic and responsive. Recognizing the critical link between housing affordability and economic development, the city has prioritized residential construction across a variety of price points. More than 700 housing units are currently in the pipeline—a mix of single-family homes, townhomes, and mixed-use developments. Notable projects include an 89-unit development on Kresky Road and an 80-unit riverfront project on E. Roanoke Street that includes flood mitigation measures, making it one of the most resilient developments in the region. “We’re building neighborhoods, not just houses,” said a city official.“These projects are designed with walkability, sustainability, and livability in mind.” With housing prices still relatively affordable compared to other parts of Washington State, Centralia is attracting first-time homeowners, young families, and retirees looking for a balanced lifestyle. LAYING THE FOUNDATION: INFRASTRUCTURE INVESTMENTS To support its growth and enhance livability, Centralia has made infrastructure a top priority. The city recently initiated a $10.2 million improvement project for the Harrison Road interchange with Interstate 5. The project includes paving, road widening, and dynamic signaling to reduce traffic congestion and improve safety. Looking ahead, Centralia is pursuing a $15 million water infrastructure upgrade on the city’s east side, along with a grant application for the North Lewis County Industrial Access Project—another effort to 5 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 09 CENTRALIA, WA
I’m LauraLee Zuber-Titus, Broker/Owner of John L. Scott Centralia, and real estate has been my passion for over 30 years. I didn’t just choose this career—I grew into it, driven by a love for helping people find not just houses, but homes where their lives unfold. Every transaction is personal to me, because behind every sale is a story, a dream, a new beginning. I’ve built my business on relationships, trust, and a deep commitment to my community. Lewis County isn’t just where I work—it’s where I live, raise my family, and invest in the future. I believe in empowering my clients with knowledge, listening to their needs, and guiding them with honesty and care. At John L. Scott Centralia, I’ve cultivated a team of professionals who share my values: integrity, excellence, and heart. We use the best tools and technology, but it’s our people who make the difference. We’re here to walk beside you, celebrate your wins, and support you through every step of the journey. Real estate is more than a job—it’s my calling. And I’m honored every time someone trusts me to be part of their story. LauraLee Zuber - Broker/Owner johnlscott.com 360-736-9939 lauraleet@johnlscott.com At John L. Scott Real Estate, our business is transactional excellence but our higher purpose is Living Life as a Contribution®
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enhance access and mobility for businesses and residents alike. “These aren’t just road and pipe projects,” emphasized a city leader. “They’re about setting the stage for future success—economically, environmentally, and socially.” HEALTHCARE THAT GROWS WITH THE COMMUNITY Centralia’s hospital system is also expanding to meet the region’s growing needs. Investments in cancer care, diagnostics, and surgical services have modernized the facility and enhanced patient outcomes. Recruitment pipelines through Centralia College’s nursing program ensure the hospital is staffed with local talent, reducing turnover and enhancing care continuity. These expansions are part of a broader commitment to building a healthy, resilient community. 8 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 09
GREEN SPACES, TRAILS, AND QUALITY OF LIFE In Centralia, quality of life isn’t just a slogan—it’s a commitment. The city has undertaken multiple projects to enhance parks, trails, and green spaces that encourage community connection and outdoor recreation. Recent highlights include the resurfacing of baseball fields with artificial turf to increase year-round playability and the planting of 90 new trees as part of a new trail project that weaves through the city’s park system. Centralia has also recently completed an educational initiative to label and identify 200 tree species in its parks, promoting environmental stewardship among residents and students alike. “Green space is essential to our identity,” said a city spokesperson.“We want people to feel pride in where they live—and to enjoy being outdoors together.” POWERED BY VOLUNTEERS While infrastructure and economic development are critical, Centralia’s true engine of progress may be its people. The city boasts an active volunteer community, with residents routinely pitching in to beautify streets, maintain public spaces, and support local events. Every morning, volunteers can be seen picking up trash on Tower Street, setting the tone for the day ahead. “These are the people who make Centralia special,” one city official noted. “Their dedication reminds us what public service is all about.” Whether organizing community celebrations, assisting with youth programs, or helping at the hospital, volunteers are the heartbeat of Centralia’s civic life. THE NEXT PIVOTAL YEARS AHEAD As Centralia looks to the future, its leaders are focused on sustaining momentum while remaining true to its founding principles of inclusion, opportunity, and civic pride. “Our hearts are getting bigger,” said a representative during the interview.“We’ve come a long way—and 9 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 09 CENTRALIA, WA
PREFERRED VENDOR/PARTNER n John L. Scott www.johnlscott.com John L. Scott Centralia is a trusted real estate office serving Lewis County and beyond for well over 50 years.. Led by Broker/Owner LauraLee Zuber-Titus, the team is committed to excellence, integrity, and personalized service. Whether buying or selling, clients benefit from deep local knowledge and a passion for helping dreams become reality. John L. Scott Centralia is keeping the Legacy going. What John L. Scott is about is, Successful Brokers and Top Producers. n Centralia Downtown Association www.downtowncentralia.org The Centralia Downtown Association champions the heart of Centralia through preservation, promotion, and partnerships. Rooted in community pride, we revitalize our historic downtown with vibrant events, local business support, and beautification efforts—creating a welcoming place to gather, grow, and thrive for generations to come. Join us in loving local! there’s still so much potential ahead.” From education to infrastructure, from housing to healthcare, Centralia is a city that remembers where it came from—and knows exactly where it’s going. 10 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 09
WWW.CITYOFCENTRALIA.COM WWW.BUSINESSVIEWMAGAZINE.COM AS FEATURED IN BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE Centralia WA
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