By Heidi Wachter, Interim City Manager
Council Priority: Develop a vision for the City Center
Real Properties of America (RPAI) presented this week to the Lakewood City Council: RPAI, the largest single property owner in the Towne Center Mall presented their plan for redevelopment in and around the Gottschalks building. The plan includes the possibility of demolition of the building and the addition of new retail space and restaurant pads. RPAI Senior Management indicated that they are in discussions with several tenants for the Joe’s building, new retail concepts, and have secured restaurant tenants. While the plan is not set in stone, they are very optimistic about the centers increased success, remain open to suggestions on best uses of space, and are a committed partner. RPAI owns 75% of the tenant space in the mall.
Council Priority: Foster Redevelopment of the Pacific Highway Corridor, Woodbrook and Tillicum
New Market and Gas Station: The City of Lakewood is pleased to welcome its newest Pacific Highway business just north of the Holiday Inn Express. Nisqually Markets opened on April 8th with a formal gathering of tribal council members, city officials, and other dignitaries. Store offerings include Nisqually fresh frozen salmon. And, if you don’t want to pump your own gas, attendants are on hand to assist.
Other items of interest:
City earns WellCity Award: Thanks to a very dedicated Wellness Committee with representatives from all departments, Lakewood earned a “WellCity Award” from the Association of Washington Cities (AWC) Employee Benefit Trust. Lakewood is one of 83 cities to receive the award. The award is based on meeting stringent best practice standards in promoting employee health. Award recipients receive a 2% premium discount on medical coverage for employees and their spouses in 2014.
Lakewood police officers carry American flag at Mariners’ home opener: The Lakewood Police Department was invited to present the American flag on the field of the Seattle Mariners’ home opener on Monday night at Safeco Field. Approximately 40 LPD officers/staff participated in the event, after attending a practice day on Sunday. Officers/staff walked the flag out onto the field and unfurled it in front of a nearly packed stadium. LPD was initially invited to present the flag after the four officers were murdered in 2009. The Mariners have invited LPD back three times since. The event was covered by the Tribune and pictures posted on the LPD Face book site. Everyone who participated had a great time and received seats to the game after the ceremony.
More about Lakewood in South Sound Magazine: The American Society of Interior Designers is showcasing their talent in the historic Wagner House at Lakewold Gardens from April 2-21. This “Tour Designer 2013 Showhouse” will benefit the Washington American Society of Interior Designers, Lakewold Gardens and Mary Bridge Children’s Hospital & Health Center. In addition, the Today in America show with Terry Bradshaw featuring Lakewood as one of “America’s Hidden Gems” is highlighted. The show is being aired across the country beginning this month.