Centralia, Washington

Centralia, Washington: A City Rooted 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 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 is honoring 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 Public Schools 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 new 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, Centralia College, and Centralia Public Schools. 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 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 Kresge Road and an 80-unit riverfront project 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 completed a $10.2 million improvement project for the Harrison Road interchange with Interstate 5. The project included 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 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.

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 trail project that weaves through the city’s park system. Centralia has also launched an educational initiative to label and identify 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 heart is getting better,” said a representative during the interview. “We’ve come a long way—and 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.

AT A GLANCE:

Name: Centralia, Washington

What: A beautiful city focused on top tier education and infrastructure

Where: Washington, USA

Website:  https://www.cityofcentralia.com/