The iconic Tollgate Farmhouse is one step closer to a complete makeover that will transform it into a community space for the Snoqualmie Valley community to enjoy.
Two years ago, a $150,000 grant from the King County Saving Landmarks program led to a restoration of the farmhouse’s exterior – and now it looks like a second grant will make an interior restoration possible.
Last year, Si View Parks secured a $279,000 grant through the Washington State Heritage Capital Projects Fund (HCPF), but the project was on hold – like many others – until the legislature approved the biannual capital budget, which happened during this legislative session.
Si View Parks is currently in the process of getting under contract for the large grant, which they say should take about six weeks. Once completed, the project will move to design phase, with construction estimated to begin later this year.
The purpose of the interior renovation is turn the 1890’s farmhouse into a community space by extending its useful life while also showcasing the home’s historical elements. The improvements will allow Si View to use it and farm for education programing and as an event venue.
The Washington State Legislature created the Heritage Capital Projects Program to provide a path to capital funds for projects that increase public access to history. The program is managed by the Washington State Historical Society. Tollgate Farmhouse was one of the 35 projects selected for funding in the 2017-19 biennium.
The farmhouse in part of the 410-acre Tollgate Farm Park and open space that is owned and operated by Si View Parks through its partnership with the City of North Bend.
Over the past two years, Si View Parks has been conducting an agricultural feasibility study for Tollgate Farm Park, which included examining the possibility of turning some farmland into an incubator farm and the farmhouse into a store to support Snoqualmie Valley farmers and educational programs.
See some current interior pictures of the old farmhouse below:
Comments
These pictures are fascinating! Thanks!! I hope you speak to Walt Wyrsh about his memories…including the “secret” still!!
Sounds interesting and I would love to hear the family history of this home.