Washington State Human Rights Commission

Governor Gregoire in Port Angeles, joined by local and tribal officials, signed an agreement resolving issues related to the historic Tse-whit-zen Village. The Washington Department of Transportation sought to develop a “graving dock” facility to build the concrete pontoons that would replace aging pontoons on the Hood Canal Bridge. Work was stopped when ancient human remains were discovered soon after excavation began in August 2003. Following extensive negotiations and additional archaeological study, work resumed in March 2004. Additional remains were found – eventually more than 350 skeletal remains and many artifacts – before work was halted in December 2004.

Governor Gregoire, at the invitation of the community, helped keep the parties together during a six-month mediation period leading to the settlement of the conflicts and litigation that resulted from the project.

“This agreement brings positive closure to a difficult and painful experience and new hope for a brighter economic future for the entire community,” said Governor Gregoire. “I am very pleased with the outcome and appreciate the hard work of the Lower Elwha Klallam Tribe, the City of Port Angeles and the Port of Port Angeles that made this pivotal agreement happen.”

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Governor Gregoire, Local and Tribal Officials Sign Tse-whit-zen Accord