The Johns Prairie Operations Center brings Mason County Public Utility District No 3 administrative, engineering, and crew functions together on a unified campus designed for long term performance and growth. Located on a 50-acre site owned by the PUD on the outskirts of Shelton, the 142000 square foot operations campus supports more than 115 staff with room to expand as community needs evolve.
Mason County PUD 3
Before consolidation, administrative and field crews operated from separate facilities, creating inefficiencies and limiting collaboration. A thoughtful five year planning and programming process aligned leadership and staff around a shared vision for a more connected workplace.
The resulting master plan organizes 22 developed acres into five coordinated buildings that support daily utility operations while fostering a stronger internal culture. By bringing departments together in one intentional environment, the project enhances productivity, communication, and shared ownership across the organization.
Refined yet distinctly industrial, the architecture reflects the merging of administrative and crew functions. Concrete, steel, masonry, and wood create a durable and timeless expression rooted in the working character of Mason County. The material palette balances strength and warmth, reinforcing the PUD’s role as both essential service provider and community partner.
The west end of the Administration Building includes a large auditorium used for PUD Commission meetings and available for public gatherings. Constructed with locally sourced wood species such as Douglas fir and cedar, the space honors the region’s timber heritage while contributing to the local economy.
Manager, Mason County PUD No 3
Guided by clearly defined program and performance criteria, the campus was designed to conserve resources and improve operational efficiency over the long term. Achieving LEED Gold certification, the project integrates sustainable strategies that reduce energy use, support occupant wellbeing, and demonstrate responsible stewardship of public investment.
Through careful planning and collaboration, the Johns Prairie Operations Center advances both organizational productivity and civic responsibility. It is a durable, forward looking campus built to serve employees, customers, and the broader community for generations.
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