TACOMA, Wash. – Community members are invited to join staff from the City’s Historic Preservation Program on a walking tour highlighting the history of the South Tacoma Way Mixed-Use Center on July 18. The walking tour will include a presentation of the historic property survey findings for the South Tacoma Way Mixed-Use Center and will usher in the conclusion of that project, which began in September 2023.
The July 18 walking tour is a free, in-person event starting at the former community center building at South Park (4851 S. Tacoma Way). It begins at 5 PM and is expected to conclude by 6:30 PM. No RSVP is needed.
“This walking tour is not just about exploring our streets; it’s a journey through time, honoring the legacy of those who came before us and preserving their memory for future generations,” said Mayor Victoria Woodards. “We invite everyone to join us in appreciating the history that makes the South Tacoma neighborhood unique.”
“I am excited to see the results of the historic property survey findings for the South Tacoma Way Mixed-Use Center,” said Council Member Joe Bushnell. “South Tacoma has such a rich history and has always been essential to Tacoma’s growth over the years. As we plan for future growth across Tacoma, it is critical to account for the historic nature of a number of its buildings. This is the first step in achieving a level of historic preservation that celebrates the culture of South Tacoma and preserves its legacy for future generations. I look forward to working further with our community to refine and prioritize preservation of South Tacoma’s historic structures.”
“Understanding the history of South Tacoma gives us an opportunity to celebrate and take pride in this great neighborhood,” said Council Member Jamika Scott. “It is so rewarding to learn more about the roots of this area and understand how our past has shaped the features of South Tacoma’s Mixed-Use Center today. I hope people from across Tacoma will join the walking tour and learn more about the historic properties we have here.”
The historic property survey recorded approximately 200 buildings within the South Tacoma Mixed-Use Center area which are roughly 50 years of age or older. Of the 200 buildings identified, 10 properties were selected for more intensive documentation. Residents and business owners from the South Tacoma neighborhood prioritized two of the 10 selected properties as part of the South Tacoma Neighborhood planning process that launched in January 2024.
As part of the historic property survey, work was documented through digital photography from the public right-of-way, along with field observations on construction, materials, function, and architectural features. Initial historical research addressed the broad patterns of development for the neighborhood.
Because there is little existing data on historic properties within the South Tacoma Neighborhood, the historic property survey and subsequent research will help the City’s Planning and Development Services Department improve publicly available information on historic resources in the South Tacoma Mixed Use Center. It will also inform future planning, research, economic investment, and development in the South Tacoma Neighborhood.
The historic property survey was made possible, in part, by a Certified Local Government grant from the Washington Department of Archaeology and Historic Preservation.
Additional information is available here.
Community members with questions or comments about the South Tacoma historic property survey can email landmarks@cityoftacoma.org.
Community members with questions or requests for information in alternate formats on the July 18 walking tour can contact Historic Preservation Coordinator Susan Johnson at sjohnson7@cityoftacoma.org or (253) 281-7445.
