What Would Make Pacific Avenue Work Better for You?

Pacific Avenue’s future could involve changes to housing, transportation and the places people use every day. Tacoma’s “Picture Pac Ave” project is developing a long-term vision for the corridor from approximately I-5 to South 96th Street. Residents can learn about the work and how to participate at an open house Tuesday, October 20, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at Moore Library, 215 S. 56th Street.

The plan is intended to guide development and public investment over the coming decades, including support for transit improvements. Its scope includes housing, businesses, infrastructure and public facilities, with safety and walkability among the project’s goals. For people who live along Pacific Avenue—or regularly travel it—the planning concerns how the corridor functions as a neighborhood as well as a route through town.

At the open house, staff will explain the Planning Commission’s proposed zoning changes and provide updates on the forthcoming draft plan, environmental impact statement and public comment period. Zoning determines what kinds of development can happen where, making those proposals an important part of the conversation. The event offers a chance to ask questions and understand the next steps while the plan is still under consideration.

The evening will also cover proposed updates to Tacoma’s tree and landscape rules and off-street parking requirements. Those separate efforts address issues such as tree preservation and how parking is provided with development. Attendees can also learn about the $1.6 million participatory budgeting process for City Council District 5, which gives residents a role in choosing how that funding is spent.

A brief staff presentation begins at 6:30 p.m., and light refreshments will be available. Spanish, Korean and Vietnamese language services will be provided, with materials in additional languages available by request through [email protected]. Bring the questions that come from using Pacific Avenue yourself; the City’s open-house page has the agenda and contact information to help you prepare.