Happy Friday Newsletter 8.14.26

Posted on by Ande Dunn

Neighborhood News

  • Meet the Artists Behind the Painted News Boxes
  • Street Food Takes Over Lincoln District
    • The Lincoln District transforms into a street food festival Friday, Aug. 14, from 4 to 9 p.m. at 801 S. 38th St. Food trucks will line the block alongside restaurant specials, a beverage garden and a marketplace, with a surprise headliner organizers are keeping under wraps until showtime. A warm summer Friday night, good food and a mystery guest. It is hard to ask for much more.
  • Cedar Irons Unveils New Course
    • Cedar Irons Golf Club, formerly North Shore Golf Course, reopened May 1 after a $7.5 million renovation that included new green complexes, teeing grounds, bunkers and irrigation. A new restaurant is expected to open later this year, so the course that has been part of Northeast Tacoma for decades is starting to look, and play, pretty different. Details are available at cedarironsgolfclub.com
  • Founding Documents Land in Seattle
    • Joint Base Lewis-McChord service members helped welcome the Freedom Plane to Boeing Field ahead of the Museum of History and Industry’s temporary exhibition, “Freedom Plane National Tour: Documents That Forged a Nation.” The specially painted Boeing 737 transported founding-era documents, including an 1823 engraving of the Declaration of Independence and a secret 1787 printing of the draft Constitution. The exhibition runs through Aug. 16 at MOHAI. Details are available at mohai.org/exhibits/freedom-plane-national-tour-documents-that-forged-a-nation.
  • Cartoon Charts Maritime Careers
    • Tacoma-based Silverback Marine debuted “Grit City Workboats,” a new animated series set on a Tacoma-inspired waterfront and intended to get children and career changers thinking about maritime jobs. Think tugboats and cranes instead of capes, with the Port of Tacoma as the backdrop.
  • Port of Tacoma Terminal Plans Major Expansion
    • Washington United Terminals plans to add two quay cranes and two yard cranes, increasing the terminal’s annual capacity from about 590,000 to 880,000 twenty-foot-equivalent units by 2028. That represents an increase of about 49 percent. It is the kind of behind-the-scenes infrastructure work that quietly keeps the region’s shipping economy running.
  • Amara Center Closes for Remodel
    • Amara broke ground Aug. 3 on a remodel of its Pierce County Family Resource Center at 3501 104th St. E., Tacoma. Families who rely on the center should mark their calendars: It will close for construction Aug. 17 and is expected to reopen Nov. 12 or 13. Amara says it hopes to provide services at a temporary location during the closure. Anyone who depends on the emergency food pantry, diapers through the Pierce County Diaper Bank Network, hygiene products or housing navigation should check with Amara before visiting. The renovation covers about half of the existing building, or 2,917 square feet, with a design shaped by input gathered since 2018 from people with lived child-welfare experience. Once finished, the center will add a free thrift store, an art studio inside the teen drop-in center and dedicated rooms for family gatherings and therapeutic healing. The center operates without income or eligibility requirements, and that low-barrier model will remain in place after construction. Funding came through a public-private partnership that includes the Puyallup Tribe of Indians, Pierce County, the Washington State Department of Commerce and several local foundations and banks. Updates are available at amarafamily.org/family-resource-center.

Local Governance

  • Tacoma Voters Back Street Levy
    • Tacoma voters approved Proposition 1, the Connect Tacoma: Safe Streets and Sidewalks Levy, in the Aug. 4 primary election. The measure is expected to generate about $320 million over 10 years for street paving, arterial safety improvements, sidewalks and accessibility upgrades, with additional attention to historically underinvested neighborhoods. Funding begins Jan. 1, 2027. The city estimated the combined property-tax and utility-tax increase at about $10.43 a month for a home assessed at $507,708. The measure follows the 2015 Tacoma Streets Initiative, which repaired more than 5,600 street blocks and helped secure more than $144 million in grants. Details are available at tacoma.gov/connecttacoma.
  • County Maps Youth Services
    • Pierce County has launched a Youth Programs and Services Resource Page, a searchable directory covering more than $25 million in youth investments across 122 active programs, 86 organizations and 12 funding streams. Users can filter the directory by category, age range, geography or funding source. Listings identify the lead organization, eligible ages, funding source and a direct program link. Categories include behavioral health and therapy, violence prevention, out-of-school programs, basic and essential needs, and career readiness. Find it at piercecountywa.gov/9107/Youth-Programs-and-Services-Resources.
  • Puyallup Seeks Parks Input
    • The City of Puyallup will hold an open house on its Parks, Recreation and Open Space Plan update from 5 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 18, at Pioneer Park Pavilion. Residents can weigh in on where the city should invest in parks, trails and recreational facilities over the next several years.
  • Transit Expansion Heads to Voters
    • The Pierce Transit Board of Commissioners voted unanimously in July to place a sales-tax increase on the November ballot. The measure would raise the agency’s sales-tax rate from 0.6 percent to 0.9 percent within the Pierce Transit service area. If voters approve the measure, Pierce Transit says the additional revenue would allow it to increase service by about 47 percent, reduce or eliminate hourly gaps on many weekday routes, extend weekday and Saturday service later into the evening, develop three additional Stream rapid-transit lines, expand paratransit and provide free fares for seniors and veterans. The improvements are proposed benefits and would be implemented over time rather than immediately after the election.
  • Sound Transit Drops Route 586
    • Sound Transit will introduce fall service changes beginning Aug. 29, including the elimination of Route 586 between Tacoma and the University District in Seattle. Riders can use other regional bus routes, Sounder or Link light rail, but the best alternative will depend on the rider’s starting point and destination. Passengers should use Sound Transit’s trip planner before the change rather than assuming every listed regional route provides a direct substitute. Details are available at soundtransit.org.
  • Puyallup Skate Park Gets a Rebuild
    • Puyallup has awarded a construction contract to rebuild its skate park, which has served riders for more than 25 years without a major renovation. Work is expected to begin this fall, with fencing and construction equipment appearing at the site before the new park opens.
  • Budget Gap Threatens Tacoma Services
    • Tacoma is confronting an estimated $40 million gap as it prepares its 2027-28 budget. The city has warned that the expiration of temporary federal and state funding could affect homelessness programs and other services unless replacement revenue or spending reductions are identified. The size and effect of any cuts will depend on the budget ultimately proposed by the city manager and adopted by the City Council.
  • Know When an E-Bike Becomes a Motorcycle
    • Washington recognizes three classes of electric-assisted bicycles. To qualify as an e-bike, a vehicle must have operable pedals and an electric motor of no more than 750 watts. Class 1 and Class 2 e-bikes stop providing assistance at 20 mph, while Class 3 e-bikes stop at 28 mph and are subject to additional restrictions. A vehicle that falls outside Washington’s e-bike definition may be treated as a moped, motorcycle or another type of motor vehicle, depending on its design and performance. Licensing, registration, equipment and insurance requirements therefore depend on the vehicle’s actual classification. It is worth checking before buying a high-powered model.
  • Wildfires Trigger Statewide Burn Ban
    • Gov. Bob Ferguson declared a statewide wildfire emergency as fires spread in Eastern Washington and activated the Washington National Guard to assist. His order prohibits most outdoor and agricultural burning statewide through Sept. 30. The governor’s order includes limited exceptions, and local fire agencies can impose stricter rules. Tacoma residents should check the Tacoma Fire Department’s current burn-ban information before using a recreational fire pit.
  • Lakewood Seeks Comment on Growth Plan
    • The Lakewood City Council will accept public comment on proposed 2026 Comprehensive Plan amendments at 6 p.m. Monday, Aug. 17, at Lakewood City Hall, 6000 Main St. SW. People may attend in person or remotely or submit written comments to the city clerk before the hearing. Details are available at cityoflakewood.us/comprehensive-plan.
  • Overnight Bus Network Expands
    • New overnight bus service will begin Aug. 29 as part of a regional partnership involving Sound Transit and King County Metro. The expanded network is intended to improve late-night travel between Seattle and communities including Lakewood and Redmond. Lakewood riders may need to use more than one route, depending on their destination. The planned Everett connection has been delayed until 2027. Riders should consult the regional trip planner at soundtransit.org before traveling.

Arts & Entertainment

  • Artists Open Their Studio Doors
    • Fifty-seven juried artists will open 23 working studios across greater Gig Harbor, Fox Island, Key Peninsula, Olalla and Port Orchard for the free, self-guided 2026 Gig Harbor Open Studio Tour. Visitors can meet the artists and watch demonstrations from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday through Sunday, Sept. 18-20. Details are available at GigHarborOpenStudioTour.org.
  • Tacoma Narrows Airport Day Takes Flight
    • Tacoma Narrows Airport will host a free Airport Day from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 29, at 1202 26th Ave. NW near Gig Harbor. Visitors can explore aviation displays, meet airport businesses, learn about aviation careers and enjoy children’s STEM activities, food trucks and possible aircraft flybys. The airport will remain open for normal operations, and the event is not an airshow. Details are available at PierceCountyWA.gov/AirportDay.
  • DuPont Fires Up the Smokers
    • The ninth annual DuPont BBQ Cookoff will fire up the smokers Friday through Sunday, Aug. 21-23, with proceeds benefiting local causes. The Cascadian has been running profiles of returning barbecue champions all month, so expect some serious pitmaster pride alongside the usual brisket, ribs and pulled pork. A Friday-night barbecue banquet will kick things off before the competition starts in earnest.
  • Caribbean Festival Takes Over Downtown
    • The Caribbean Queens Festival will fill Theater Square, 917 Broadway, with Caribbean food, live music, steelpan, dancing, DJs, vendors, family activities and a community costume parade from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 16. The “Carnival in the Streets” celebration is free and open to the public. Details are available at caribbeanqueens.net/festival.
  • Bring Your Pet for a Blessing
    • United Church in University Place will hold its Blessing of the Animals service at Curran Apple Orchard on Sunday, Aug. 23, with a liturgy of blessing, thanksgiving and music for pets of every species. Leash or carrier recommended, good behavior optional.
  • Shelf Indulgence Celebrates Bookstore Romance Day
    • Shelf Indulgence marks Bookstore Romance Day on Saturday, August 15, at 10 am with the kind of curated romance shelf browsing that makes for a good excuse to leave the house. Expect staff picks, new releases, and probably a few blind date with a book style surprises.
  • Cheney Stadium Goes Pink
    • The Tacoma Rainiers will host Pink at the Park at 1:30 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 16, with proceeds benefiting the Carol Milgard Breast Center. Wear pink, catch a ballgame and support a good cause without much extra effort.

Opportunities

  • Leadership Academy Seeks Applicants
    • Applications for the Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber’s 2026 Business Leadership Academy are due Friday, Aug. 14. Founded in 1978, the program helps participants build leadership skills, develop professional connections and work on a community project. Apply at tacomachamber.org/business-leadership-academy.html.
  • Workshop Helps Businesses Get Capital-Ready
    • Tacoma’s Equity in Contracting Program will host “Capital Ready: Preparing Businesses for Growth in Public Contracting” from 4 to 6 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 26, at Edison Square, 5415 S. Tacoma Way. Representatives of Chase, BECU and KeyBank will discuss financing readiness, working capital and barriers businesses may encounter when pursuing public contracts. The free panel will be moderated by LED Trail co-owner Scott Lundt. Information is available at makeittacoma.com/business-resources/events-and-training.
  • Tacoma Seeks Urban Design Advisers
    • Tacoma is accepting applications for three positions on its Urban Design Board. One seat is reserved for a design and development professional, such as an architect, planner or engineer. Two allied-community representative seats cover culture and heritage and active and multimodal transportation. The board provides early design guidance and makes decisions on Urban Design Project Review permits. Applications are due to the City Clerk’s Office by noon Monday, Aug. 31. Details are available at cityoftacoma.org/government/committees_boards_commissions.
  • Washington State Fair Farm Barn Seeks Seasonal Workers
    • Lacamas Valley Ranch is seeking seasonal employees to work in the Farm Barn during the Washington State Fair’s Sept. 4-27 run in Puyallup. Workers will greet visitors, answer questions about the animals, supervise the petting area and help keep the barn clean. The position pays $17.13 an hour. Applicants must be at least 18, pass a background check and be available for at least seven days during the fair. Contact Tessa at 253-273-8823 or myfairmarmlady@outlook.com. Other fair employment opportunities are listed at thefair.com/connect/employment/.
  • Discount Tree Sale Opens
    • The Pierce Conservation District’s urban tree sale runs through Nov. 7, with 5- to 7-gallon trees standing approximately 6 feet or taller priced from $10 to $30. A free planting workshop comes with every purchase, so there is no excuse for a tree dying of neglect in your driveway.
  • Gifts Help Send Kids to Camp
    • Nearly one in five families whose children attend Parks Tacoma camps need financial assistance. The parks district provided more than $100,000 in fee waivers last year, and a matching gift of up to $25,000 will double eligible community donations this summer. Donate through Parks Tacoma to help close the gap.
  • Volunteers Needed in Rhododendron Garden
    • Point Defiance Park’s Rhododendron Garden is holding volunteer work parties throughout August to pull weeds, clear beds and keep the collection in shape for fall. No experience is required, just a willingness to get your hands dirty for a couple of hours.
  • New Tacoma Neighborhood Council Seeks Input
    • The New Tacoma Neighborhood Council is asking residents and business owners to share their priorities for downtown Tacoma, the Stadium and Dome districts, part of Hilltop and the Port of Tacoma. Residents may complete the Community Survey, while business owners and managers may complete a separate Business Survey. Responses will help the council represent neighborhood needs to city officials and shape its future work. Both surveys are available at newtacoma.org.
  • State Offers E-Bike Rebates
    • Washington’s WE-Bike program offers point-of-sale rebates of $300 or $1,200 toward eligible e-bike purchases for Washington residents age 16 or older. The larger rebate is income-qualified, and availability depends on remaining program funds. Tacoma nonprofit 2nd Cycle also operates an E-Bike Lending Library that allows eligible community members to borrow an e-bike before deciding whether to buy one.
  • Conservation Corps Seeks 260 Members
    • The Washington Conservation Corps is recruiting for 260 AmeriCorps positions in environmental restoration, trail work and recreation projects across the state. Most positions are open to people ages 18 to 25, while age limits do not apply to qualified veterans. It is hands-on outdoor work with a living allowance attached, a solid option for anyone who wants experience that actually gets them outside.
  • Nominate a Lakewood Community Volunteer
    • The Lakewood Community Foundation is accepting nominations for its annual Larry Saunders Service Award, which recognizes civic service in the Lakewood community. If you know someone who has been quietly doing the work for years, this is the moment to nominate them.

Recreation

  • SummerFEST Takes Over Lakewood
    • Lakewood’s 30th-anniversary SummerFEST will take over Fort Steilacoom Park from 11 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 15. The event is free and open to the public. Expect more than 100 market vendors, dozens of food trucks, aerial motocross, circus performances, live music, cultural performances, family activities and the Bombs Away Car Show, all building toward a Polynesian fire show at dusk. Bring cash for food and plan to stay past sunset for the finale. Details are available at cityoflakewood.us/summerfest.
  • Tacoma Rugby Looks Ahead
    • Founded in 1974, Tacoma Rugby Club continues to expand its Aroma 7s tournament and other events. Whether you play or just want to watch a scrum up close, it is worth keeping an eye on the club’s growing calendar.
  • Young Golfers Take the Course
    • Meadow Park Golf Course will host the 2026 Tacoma Junior Open on Sept. 5 for young golfers with a range of experience levels. The Tacoma Golf Association, a nonprofit promoting amateur golf since 1931, will hold its 2026 Best Ball tournament Sept. 12. Clinics and club fittings are available during August and September for anyone who wants a tuneup first. Sign up through Meadow Park Golf Course, 7108 Lakewood Drive W., or call 253-473-3033.
  • Family Fun Takes Over Fort Nisqually
    • Fort Nisqually Living History Museum will host Family Fun Night from 6 to 9 p.m. Friday, Aug. 21. Activities include a candy cannon, 19th-century games and music, with the Dawg Eat Dawgs food truck outside. Advance tickets and additional information are available through Fort Nisqually and Parks Tacoma.
  • Tacoma Keeps Water Play Going
    • Kandle Pool and Stewart Heights Pool are offering evening swims four times a week during the summer, along with lessons and pool rentals. Tacoma’s spraygrounds are open daily from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. through Labor Day. No appointment is required, just a towel and sunscreen.
  • Walk the Waterway and Learn What Protects It
    • Communities for a Healthy Bay will host “Walking with Trees and Water” from 10:30 a.m. to noon Saturday, Aug. 22. The group will meet at Naomi Joe’s Coffee Roasters inside 7 Seas Brewery, 2101 Jefferson Ave., before walking from downtown to the Thea Foss Waterway.
    • Guides Lowell Wyse and Barry Goldstein will discuss urban-tree management and stormwater pollution along the way. The free event is sponsored by Tacoma Creates.
  • Tacoma Celebrates Sheridan Upgrades
    • Tacoma will celebrate improvements to Sheridan Avenue with a ribbon-cutting ceremony from noon to 2 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 29, at Wapato Park. Deputy Mayor Kiara Daniels and Parks Tacoma Commissioner Erik Hanberg are scheduled to participate in the ceremony at 12:30 p.m. Tacoma Mobility will pair the celebration with a family bicycle ride leaving Fern Hill Elementary School at noon, along with free helmets and a learn-to-skate pop-up from Alchemy Skateboarding.
  • Ride Tacoma With City Leaders
    • Tacoma on the Go’s annual Pedal with Politicians ride will run from 5 to 7 p.m. Monday, Aug. 31, beginning at 747 Market St. The roughly 4-mile route gives riders a chance to talk with elected officials and city staff while traveling through Tacoma. Helmets and signed waivers are required, and preregistration is encouraged.

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