New building rises on Capital campus

OLYMPIA - Facing health and safety hazards and experiencing overcrowding, in May 2023 the original Irving R. Newhouse Building on the capitol campus in Olympia was entirely demolished and construction of a new building began.

The building is named for the father of Rep. Dan Newhouse of Sunnyside, who currently represents the Fourth Congressional District of Eastern Washington. The district includes western Adams County.

But there are rumors of the new building getting a new name.

As a result, Rep. Bryan Sandlin, R-Zillah, representing the 15th Legislative District, introduced House Continuing Resolution 4405 to preserve the original name.

"We can take a page out of his career, each and every one of us to be a bipartisan member of this Legislature. He worked across the aisle very well. He represented his district very well," Sandlin said.

Irving R. Newhouse served for 34 years, holding office in the House of Representatives from 1965 to 1980 and in the Senate from 1980 to 1998.

"They appreciate the recognition and are honored to keep that name, as well as I am," Sandlin said referring to the Newhouse family. "And I hope everyone will support this."

The Newhouse tradition in politics continues. U.S. Congressman Dan Newhouse, the son of Irving, presently serves as a representative for Washington's 4th congressional district.

When complete the new building will house Senate members and their employees. Completion is anticipated in late 2024.