A mix of renovation, expansion and improvement scope, the completed Rocky Reach Central Maintenance project reflects comprehensive site redevelopment in support of staff and crews at the Hydroelectric Complex located just outside of Wenatchee. Undertaken as part of the Public Utility District’s broader effort to modernize its hydroelectric support facilities, the updated campus strengthens operational capacity while creating a more cohesive, supportive environment for the people who maintain this critical infrastructure.
Chelan County PUD
The redevelopment included construction of two new buildings and renovation of several existing, all organized along a singular circulation drive paralleling the river. This linear spine forms an “industrial main street,” bringing clarity to campus movement by strengthening day to day connections between crews, shops, and administrative teams.
Aligning buildings along this shared corridor improves site efficiency while promoting greater visibility and collaboration across departments. What was once dispersed now feels unified, reinforcing a shared sense of purpose.
CM24 is a 20,240 square foot, three story steel framed crew and office building attached to the adjacent shop. The ground level prioritizes the daily needs of maintenance crews, providing direct access to locker and shower rooms, a fitness space, and seamless connections to shop and warehouse functions. The second level features a 100-person multi use break room, conference rooms, and foremen offices. Above this, engineering and administrative offices overlook the Columbia River and Rocky Reach Dam, connecting staff visually to the infrastructure they steward.
Natural light, river views, and warm material accents introduce comfort and dignity into an industrial setting. The building’s organization reflects the rhythm of work while acknowledging the people behind it.
CM22 is a 26,400 square foot high-bay shop designed to accommodate the immense scale of hydroelectric components. Two 25-ton bridge cranes anchor the space, supporting safe and efficient handling of critical equipment.
The climate-controlled machine shop, tool crib, and associated support spaces are organized for durability and precision. They remain closely connected to crew facilities to encourage communication and ease of access. CM22’s straightforward structure prioritizes function while reinforcing long term adaptability.
The interior concept, “Industrial Mod,” draws from the mid-century modern character of the Rocky Reach Discovery Center and the utilitarian strength of the nearby namesake dam.
Exposed structure and industrial materials express honesty and performance, while wood finishes and measured color introduce warmth in people focused spaces. Reused hydroelectric components serve as one-of-a-kind artifacts, creating moments of familiarity and pride that honor the legacy of the PUD.
Together, these elements balance industrial rigor with human scale, reinforcing that even highly technical environments can support comfort, identity, and belonging.
Work
