The Washington State University Foundation has moved into the Town Centre building in downtown Pullman to occupy the second and third floors of the three-story brick building on the southwest corner of Main and Kamiaken streets. The remaining space is occupied by Sam Dial Jewelers, Quizno’s Subs and the Moscow-Pullman Daily News.
“Washington State University and the Pullman community have been partners for more than 100 years,” said WSU President V. Lane Rawlins. “The Foundation’s move to the Town Centre will strengthen this partnership and enhance the university community’s participation in the economic potential of downtown Pullman.”
“The relocation to downtown Pullman helps consolidate the Foundation’s workforce and gives us a visible presence from which to raise private support for the university’s highest priorities,” said Rick Frisch, WSU Foundation president. “We owe a debt of gratitude to President Rawlins’ vision, Duane Brelsford and all of the individuals and businesses who worked together to make this project a reality. It demonstrates what can be done when the university and the community work together. The foundation’s staff is looking forward to being part of the downtown Pullman community.”
Community business leaders are pleased to see the Town Centre project come to fruition.
“It’s just outstanding and a great symbol of commitment between the university and the Pullman community,” said Fritz Hughes, executive director of the Pullman Chamber of Commerce. “I’m already hearing feedback from downtown business owners that there is more vitality and activity. They are seeing more drop-in traffic.
“Even though economic times across the nation are tough, the situation in Pullman is encouraging with the foundation’s move and new businesses downtown, the new hospital, the expansion of Lincoln Middle School, and the progress of the downtown Riverwalk,” Hughes added.
“It is a very exciting time for Pullman; WSU and the WSU Foundation are an integral part of the downtown revitalization,” said Brelsford. “WSU Foundation employees will generate activity that downtown has not seen for many years. I want to thank V. Lane Rawlins, Rick Frisch, Greg Royer and Jerry Schlatter for their continued support and commitment to strengthening our community.”
The Foundation will occupy 15,800 square feet of the building. The initial move will bring approximately 65 staff members to downtown Pullman, with room for expansion to house up to a total of 90 employees in the space. While foundation staff members are pleased to be located in the same place for the first time, they will remain an integral part of the WSU community, with many staffers having meetings on the WSU campus several times a week.
“It is really the best of both worlds,” said Frisch. “Foundation staff are invested in numerous campus and community activities — personally and professionally — resulting in a lively exchange between the university and the community.”
