Fuel Tank Removal at the Downtown Transportation Site Update

The Puyallup School District is preparing to decommission and remove aging fuel tanks and the fuel island at our downtown Transportation site. This work is part of ongoing facility maintenance and long-term planning to ensure district operations remain safe, functional, and environmentally responsible. 

Why is this happening? 

• The fuel tanks are 32 years old. 
• They will no longer be insurable next year due to their age. 
• Removing them now allows the district to plan responsibly rather than react to an urgent issue later. 

This is a proactive step. The site has been part of Washington’s cleanup process under the Model Toxics Control Act (MTCA), the state law that oversees environmental investigation and cleanup through the Washington State Department of Ecology. MTCA ensures sites are evaluated and cleaned to standards that protect people and the environment. 

Many sites across Washington have gone through this state-managed process. The Transportation site is one of many that are being addressed through this established system. 

Background: A Historical Issue Being Resolved 

Several years ago, during the removal of an older heating oil tank on the property, contaminated soil was identified. That contamination was determined to be from a past release that occurred more than 10 years ago. 

The upcoming fuel tank removal continues with the long-term cleanup process already underway. It does not reflect a newly discovered environmental concern. 

The project includes: 

• Decommissioning the existing fuel island 
• Removing the underground tanks 
• Investigating and addressing any impacted soil as required 
• Restoring the site with new asphalt 

The district is working with environmental consultants and coordinating permits with the city. Construction is scheduled to move forward once permits are finalized. 

This work supports Goal 5 of the district’s strategic plan: Facilities, Safety, and Security. 

Bus Fleet Modernization 

This infrastructure update also aligns with the district’s broader transportation planning efforts. As the district begins deploying newly purchased propane-powered buses to replace aging vehicles, fueling operations are being reviewed to ensure they match the needs of the modernized fleet.  

The propane buses offer quieter operation, lower maintenance costs, and reduced emissions compared to traditional diesel buses, while allowing the district to maintain and service vehicles in-house. Initial deployment will focus on routes near district fueling facilities as part of a phased transition. 

Removing outdated fuel infrastructure at the downtown site complements this long-term approach. By addressing aging infrastructure now, the district is investing in both environmental stewardship and the long-term health of our facilities. 
 
Read our previous story on the new propane buses: New Propane Buses Arrive to Support Cleaner, Quieter Student Transportation | PSD News