Pierce County Council adopts 2020-2021 biennial budget

Pierce County Council adopts biennial budget, making significant investments in public safety, human services and parks

The over $2.4 billion 2020-2021 biennial budget (Ordinance 2019-86s) was unanimously adopted by the Council, making significant investme...

Take a weekend stroll through dazzling lights at Spanaway Park

Looking for the perfect way to step into the holiday season? Pierce County Parks invites you to get into the holiday spirit by experiencing Fantasy Lights Walk. You will get a close-up preview of more than 300 animated displays and thousands of brilliant ...

County observes Veterans Day holiday

Pierce County administrative offices will be closed Monday, Nov. 11, in observance of the Veterans Day holiday. Normal business hours will resume Nov. 12. Emergency services will continue to operate without interruption.

Experience your local attractions focus of In-District Council meeting

The Pierce County Council will hold an in-district Council meeting at 6 p.m. on Nov. 12, at Lacamas Community Center, 32113 8th Ave. S. in Roy. This in-district meeting will be hosted by Councilman Jim McCune, Pierce County Council District 3.

Each member ...

Golden Given Road E and 104th Street E intersection to change to all-way stop in early November

The Golden Given Road East and 104th Street East intersection will be converted to an all-way stop starting Nov. 7 to enhance safety at the intersection.

The schedule for this change is weather dependent. Please visit www.piercecountywa.gov/trafficprojects...

Images of Aging explores personal prejudices and social changes

For an older adult, the decision to stop driving is never an easy one. Driving is the hallmark of personal independence and a symbol of individual freedom. In many cases, there are health issues involved that make driving dangerous, so the choice to stop ...

Pierce County road crews prepare for winter weather

Pierce County is preparing now for snow and ice on county roads.

Road crews will set up and calibrate snow-fighting equipment and travel their snow plow routes on Oct. 31. Over the rest of the week, they will review snow and ice response plans, practice op...

Developers share with Human Services Committee obstacles to building affordable housing

The Pierce County Council Human Services Committee will hear from local developers and housing professionals about obstacles that they face when looking to build affordable housing in Pierce County. The meeting will take place on Monday, Oct. 28 at 1:30 p...

Pierce County Council Meeting to be held at Step By Step

The Pierce County Council will hold an in-district Council meeting at 6:00 p.m. on Oct. 29, at Step By Step, 3303 8th Avenue SE in Puyallup. This in-district meeting will be hosted by Councilwoman Pam Roach, Pierce County Council District 2.

Each member of...

Film focuses on early onset dementia

When you think of Alzheimer’s or dementia, you probably think of an older adult. Contrary to popular belief, early onset Alzheimer’s affects people younger than age 65. They have families, careers or may even be caregivers to someone e...

Nov. 5 General Election at a glance

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Julie Anderson, Pierce County Auditor

253-798-3188 or 253-318-0493 (cell)

julie.anderson@piercecountywa.gov

Reduce flooding by keeping storm drains clear of leaves

Pierce County residents can help reduce roadway flooding by keeping storm drains free of leaves.

“The potential for roadway flooding increases if storm drains are clogged by leaves during rainy weather,” said Dennis Hanberg, Pierce Coun...

Dogs’ day out at Spanaway Park, Oct. 19

Everyone is invited to a tail-waggin’ good time at the Woof Woof Walk from 9 a.m. to noon on Saturday, Oct. 19 at Spanaway Park, located at 14905 Bresemann Blvd. S. in Spanaway. 

This annual event, which benefits Pierce County Parks yout...

Resource expo connects residents with local long-term care options

Knowing your options is always a good idea but knowing them before a crisis is even more important. Making the Link 2019 is Pierce County’s annual showcase of care providers and services for older adults and individuals with disabilities. The ev...

Superior Court therapeutic court program marks 25 years

Pierce County Superior Court is proudly celebrating the 25th anniversary of Felony Drug Court on Thursday, Oct. 17 from 2 to 4 p.m. in Courtroom 100 of the County-City Building, 930 Tacoma. Ave. S. in Tacoma.

The program will begin with presentations from ...

Learn what’s on the horizon for Social Security in 2020

Since 1935, Social Security has been the cornerstone of retirement plans for most Americans. The program continues to evolve, responding to the challenges of each generation. For individuals preparing to start their Social Security benefits, current and f...

Change of season brings lower fares for Pierce County Ferry riders

Non-peak season fares started Oct. 1 for Pierce County Ferry passengers.

The fare for vehicles up to and including 22 feet in length is now $18.35, compared to the peak season fare of $23.85. Customers with a Senior ID or Disability Permit driving a vehicl...

Purchasing forum to connect businesses with government contracting experts set for October 8

Businesses will learn first-hand how to compete for contracts with local, state, and federal governments at the annual Greater Pierce County Purchasing Forum, presented by Pierce County’s Economic Development Department and City of Lakewood’s Economic Dev...

Film explores challenges of aging in place

Over 75% of Americans aged 50 and older would prefer to stay at home as they age. When aging in place, the underlying goal is to live in the residence of their choice for as long as they can. But there is much more to staying safe at home than meets the e...

Outdoor improvements coming to Sprinker Recreation Center

Sprinker Recreation Center, a versatile regional sports complex located in the Parkland-Spanaway area, home to countless baseball and soccer tournaments, western Washington’s largest outdoor skatepark, mountain climbing rock, and many other amen...

In-district Council meeting to focus on community engagement

The Pierce County Council will hold an in-district Council meeting at 6 p.m. Oct. 1, at the Mid-County Community Center, 10205 44^th Ave. E. in Tacoma. This in-district meeting will be chaired by Councilmember Marty Campbell, District 5 and will focus on c...

County Council launching biennial budget process

The Pierce County Council has begun the process for consideration, review and approval of the 2020-21 biennial budget.

The Council will be holding a series of budget retreats and Committee of the Whole (COW) meetings to review the proposed budget and depar...

Pierce County Executive presents biennial budget to Council

Priorities include public safety, behavioral health and government efficiency

Pierce County Executive Bruce Dammeier presented his proposed 2020 – 2021 biennial budget to the County Council this afternoon. 

The 2020 -2021 biennial propose...

Learn about Pierce County’s Parks, Recreation and Open Space Plan

Pierce County residents are invited to learn about updates to the Parks, Recreation and Open Space Plan through an online open house.

The Parks, Recreation and Open Space Plan is updated about every six years. The plan provides the long-term plan for parks...

Lakebay intersection to be reconfigured in late September

The Cornwall Road Southwest, Lorenz Road Southwest and Delano Road Southwest intersection in Lakebay will be reconfigured in late September to improve intersection operations.

An eastbound left-turn lane for traffic turning onto Lorenz Road Southwest from ...

Planning Commission’s vote on four community plans postponed until housing market study completed

The Pierce County Planning Commission has postponed its November vote on four community plan updates so a housing market study that analyzes the impacts of focusing growth on several major transportation corridors in central Pierce County can be completed...

LGBTQIA+ conference empowers seniors to age out loud

In 2017, Tacoma Older LGBT conducted a community survey and estimated that 4,520 lesbian, gay or bisexual adults over the age of 60 and 387 transgender adults call Pierce County home. Since then, Pierce County Aging and Disability Resources (ADR) has host...

Fall prevention event highlights safety concerns for older adults

The staggering numbers show how serious falls are for older adults. The National Council on Aging reports that one in four Americans age 65 and over fall each year. In America, every 11 seconds an older adult is treated in the emergency room for a fall. E...

Sprinker Recreation Center gears up for classic cars and trucks Sept. 21

Classic cars and trucks will be making their way back to CARSTAR HI-TECH Collision’s Classic Car & Truck Show for its 17th annual event. 

The free family-friendly event for spectators runs from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Sept. &n...

Parks and Economic Development Focus of Pierce County Council Meeting

The Pierce County Council will hold an in-district Council meeting at 6:00 p.m. on Sept. 17, at Tehaleh Heights Elementary School, 17520 Berkeley Parkway East in Bonney Lake. This in-district meeting will be chaired by Councilmember Dave Morell, Pierce Co...

Alzheimer’s conference focuses on healthy meals and alternatives

Today, one in three seniors dies with Alzheimer’s or another dementia. Oftentimes, regular or nutritious meals may become a challenge for people with dementia. As cognitive function declines, one may become overwhelmed with too many food choices...

Shoulder work on section of Key Peninsula Highway started Sept. 9

Work on the southbound shoulder of Key Peninsula Highway from 88th Street Northwest to 59th Street Northwest started Sept. 9. The work is expected to take up to four weeks.

The existing shoulder width along this approximately 1.8-mile section varies from 4...

Wastewater treatment plant receives “Outstanding Performance” award

Pierce County’s Chambers Creek Regional Wastewater Treatment Plant in University Place has received the 2018 Wastewater Treatment Plant Outstanding Performance Award from the Washington State Department of Ecology. 

“We are pro...

Free Alzheimer’s conference focuses on nutritional health and creative alternatives

Pierce County Aging & Disability Resources, in collaboration with the Health Care Providers Council of Pierce County, will host “Food for Thought: Nutrition and Dementia”, this year’s Alzheimer’s Caregiver Conference theme. 

The event is set f...

Most Pierce County offices will be closed on Monday, for Labor Day.

Most Pierce County government offices will observe Labor Day on the first Monday in September and will be closed. Offices will be back on a normal schedule the following Tuesday. Emergency services will continue to operate without interruption.

Maintenance work on Muck Creek bridge on 8th Avenue South south of Rice Kandle Road East starts Sept

Pierce County will perform maintenance work on a bridge over Muck Creek located on 8th Avenue South almost a half-mile south of Rice Kandle Road East starting Sept. 3.

The bridge will be reduced to one lane with alternating traffic from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m....

Superior Court Judge Susan K. Serko announces retirement

Pierce County Superior Court announces the retirement of Judge Susan K. Serko from the bench after more than 13 years. Judge Serko’s last day will be Aug.31.  

Judge Susan K. Serko grew up living in Brooklyn, New York, Spokane, Washingto...

Images of Aging looks at love after losing a spouse

Older adults can take many different paths after a spouse passes away. The months and years pass and eventually a day-to-day rhythm develops. And sometimes the unexpected comes along.

Pierce County Aging and Disability Resources is offering free admission ...

Schedule for Fox Island Bridge repair work updated to accommodate first day of school

Pierce County has updated the schedule for pavement repair work on the Fox Island Bridge to accommodate parents and students on the first day of school for the Peninsula School District.

A detailed bridge inspection and the first day of pavement repair wor...

Auditor schedules mandatory recount

The Pierce County Auditor will conduct a mandatory recount for the City of Tacoma, Council-at-large, Position No. 7 race.The recount will begin Monday, August 26, 2019 at 8:30 a.m. and will conclude with the Pierce County Canvassing Board Meeting on Augus...

Fox Island Bridge to be reduced to one lane Aug. 27 and 28 for inspection, repairs

The Fox Island Bridge will be reduced to one lane with alternating traffic from 6:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Aug. 27 and 28 while crews perform a detailed structural inspection and make pavement repairs.

Motorists should add extra travel time and expect traffic del...

Stormwater treatment pond to be constructed near 104th Street East and Woodland Avenue East intersec

Motorists should expect delays near the 104th Street East and Woodland Avenue East intersection starting Aug. 26 while a stormwater treatment pond is constructed near the southeast corner of the intersection. Construction is expected to be completed in la...

Tips for caring for people with Alzheimer’s

Almost 6 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s today. Researchers worldwide are scrambling to find a cure as they estimate that number to rise to 14 million before the year 2050.

Pierce County Aging and Disability Resources (ADR) is hosti...

Road project at 62nd Avenue Northwest and 144th Street Northwest intersection continues

Work on a project to improve the 62nd Avenue Northwest and 144th Street Northwest intersection will continue into the fall.

The project will increase the safety and efficiency of the intersection. Improvements include a new traffic signal, street lighting ...

Labor Day weekend schedule for Pierce County Ferry

The Pierce County Ferry will offer additional runs to accommodate Labor Day weekend travelers.

Pierce County will operate two boats between 12:30 p.m. and 6:40 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 30, and between 10:30 a.m. and 4:50 p.m. on Monday, Sept. 2. The ferry will...

New traffic signal coming to 38th Avenue East and 152nd Street East intersection

A project to add a new traffic signal system at the 38th Avenue East and 152nd Street East intersection will start Aug. 16. The work is expected to be completed in May 2020. 

The intersection is located to the east of Naches Trail Elementary Schoo...

Pierce County Council approves accessing state dollars

Council voted 5-1 on Ordinance 2019-57s, which authorizes the County to collect a portion of the state’s sales and use tax for investments in affordable and supportive housing. There will be no increase to the sales and use tax for the consumer....

Fleet of food trucks rolling to the Mobile Food Fest, Aug. 17

Sprinker Recreation Center’s ballfields will have a fleet of tasty mobile goodness from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. this Saturday, Aug. 17 at Pierce County Parks & Recreation fifth annual Mobile Food Fest.  

In addition to the 24 delicious rea...

Kidz Kraze features free family activities, inflatable obstacle course, and so much more

Grab your sunscreen and comfy shoes and get down to Pierce County Parks and Recreation’s Kidz Kraze Children’s Festival! This free annual event is held at Chambers Creek Regional Park from 12 to 4 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 25 in the Central Me...

Family Campout to take over Chambers Creek Regional Park, Aug. 17-18

Come pitch a tent and camp out at Chambers Creek Regional Park the weekend of Aug. 17-18 at Parks and Recreation’s 2nd annual Family Campout.

The fun-filled weekend, beginning Saturday afternoon and stretching into Sunday morning, includes an afternoon of ...

Pierce County Fair debuts horse mounting ramp at special dedication

Join the time-honored annual tradition that celebrates rural life, agriculture, and family-oriented fun at the Pierce County Fair Aug. 8-11 at Frontier Park in Graham.

Reminiscent of agricultural fairs, the Pierce County Fair embraces our local riches. Sit...

Pierce County seeks community input in evaluating fair housing

The Pierce County Human Services Department is seeking public participation and input to assist in its Fair Housing Planning for the next five years. Tell us what housing needs and resources are important to you by completing the Pierce County resident su...

Images of Aging looks at not aging

Many products today are advertised to help older adults keep their youthful look. The global anti-aging market generates billions of dollars every year, with the United States accounting for over one-third. In a time like this, one must wonder, what would...

Dock failure suspends Pierce County ferry service until further notice

Pierce County Ferry service is suspended until further notice following a failure of the Anderson Island dock. A marine contracting crew is on-scene and assessing the situation and making the repair to the dock. 

Please plan for ferry service to b...

Public comment sought on draft plan to bring pedestrian facilities into ADA compliance

The public is invited to comment on Pierce County’s draft plan to bring existing pedestrian facilities – including sidewalks, curb ramps, pedestrian push buttons and driveway entrances – into compliance with the Americans wit...

High friction surface treatment coming to Pierce County roads

Pierce County will install a surface treatment at six roadway locations starting Aug. 5.

The treatment – called a high friction surface treatment – will be applied at the following locations:

• 122nd Street East/Military Road East &nda...

Planning Commission adds fall study sessions, moves final vote on four community plans to November

The Pierce County Planning Commission has added four fall study sessions and moved its final vote on the Frederickson, Mid-County, Parkland-Spanaway-Midland and South Hill community plan updates to November.

Community plans provide direction on how growth ...

Resurfacing work on section of 72nd Street East rescheduled

Work to resurface 72nd Street East between Waller Road East and Canyon Road East has been rescheduled to avoid impacts to those participating in the Goodguys 32nd Pacific Northwest Nationals car show, which runs July 26-28 at the Washington State Fair Eve...

Heather Moss confirmed as new Human Services director

Following a 5-1 vote, Heather Moss has been confirmed by the Pierce County Council as the County’s Director of Human Services.

Moss joins the County from the Washington State Department of Children, Youth and Families, where she served as deputy ...

Bonds to be issued for construction of new South Sound 911 Communications Center

The Pierce County Council authorized issuance of limited tax general obligation bonds sufficient to generate $65,000,000, for the construction of the South Sound 911 Public Safety Communications Center at 3580 Pacific Ave. Ordinance 2019-46, which authori...

Annual property values set by County assessor-treasurer

The values of over 300,000 parcels of property throughout Pierce County have been determined and mailed or emailed this week to the property owners. These 2019 values will be used as the basis for property taxes to be billed in February 2020.

“Re...

Section of 72nd Street East to be reconfigured in late July

72nd Street East between Waller Road East and Canyon Road East will be reconfigured to three lanes after the road is resurfaced in late July.

The 1.5-mile section is currently four lanes, with two lanes in each direction. After the road is chipsealed and f...

Primary Election at a glance

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Julie Anderson, Pierce County Auditor

253-798-3188 or 253-318-0493 (cell)

julie.anderson@piercecountywa.gov

Take a hike: July 27 is Pierce County Trails Day celebration

Lace up your boots, slip on your favorite walking shoes and make your way to Pierce County Trails Day.

Parks & Recreation, in partnership with ForeverGreen Trails, will celebrate Pierce County Trails Day with a free family event Saturday, July 27 from ...

Expect traffic delays along section of Canyon Road East through fall due to utility work

Motorists should expect traffic delays along Canyon Road East between 99th Street Court East and 84th Street East through the fall due to utility work.

This work is in preparation for an upcoming Pierce County road project along this section of Canyon Road...

Work to repair culvert under Whiteman Road Southwest starts July 15

A project to repair a culvert located under Whiteman Road Southwest and install guardrail will begin July 15. The work is expected to be complete by late August.

The culvert is located where the road intersects with Whiteman Cove Road Southwest on the sout...

Changes to Washington state’s election laws are now in effect

As of July 1, 2019, new conveniences and increased accessibility to voting in Washington are now law. The State Legislature passed a number of bills during the 2018 and 2019 sessions that changed significant dates and deadlines for registration and voting...

Commissioner Ahrens Appointed to Judge

Pierce County Superior Court is pleased to announce that Court Commissioner Sabrina Ahrens has accepted an offer from Governor Inslee to become a Superior Court Judge. This position was formally held by Judge Susan Serko, who is retiring on August 31st. &...

Pierce County Council continues efforts to prioritize broadband infrastructure

The Pierce County Council reinforced its commitment to implementing broadband infrastructure and enhanced speed with the adoption of Resolution R2019-74. In this resolution, Council declares desired access speeds of one gigabyte per second in urban areas ...

Planning Commission schedules study sessions, final vote on four community plans

The Pierce County Planning Commission has scheduled additional meetings related to the Frederickson, Mid-County, Parkland-Spanaway-Midland and South Hill community plan updates in July and August.

The commission will hold three study sessions in July on th...

Images of Aging featured in new film series

Films can teach us so much about ourselves and those around us. Many films focus on the human condition, the characteristics, key events, and situations which compose the essentials of human existence, including aging and mortality. 

Pierce County...

Safety improvements to temporarily close Foothills Trail between McMillan and Orting

A realignment of the Foothills Trail will be underway from July 8-26 to improve safety for both vehicle traffic and multi-use trail users.  

The project will increase line-of-site visibility for all users and reduce trail user speeds as they enter...

County observes Independence Day holiday

Pierce County administrative offices will be closed Thursday, July 4, in observance of the Independence Day holiday. Normal business hours will resume Friday, July 5. Emergency services will continue to operate without interruption.

Countywide burn ban in Pierce County begins July 1

A county-wide burn ban in Pierce County will take effect at 8 a.m. on Monday, July 1, until further notice.

Pierce County Fire Marshal in partnership with the Pierce County Fire Chiefs’ Association has declared a countywide burn ban. This ban is ...

Council funds public safety, infrastructure and permitting in supplemental budget

The Pierce County Council voted 6 - 0 on Tuesday, June 25 to adopt Ordinance 2019-32s2, a supplemental budget that supports ferries, property clean-up and permitting.

“The budget enhancements approved by the Council today align with our priorities to stren...

New traffic signal system to be activated at 22nd Avenue East and 152nd Street East June 25

A new traffic signal system will be activated at the 22nd Avenue East and 152nd Street East intersection in Spanaway on June 25.

This activation is weather dependent. Once the signal is activated, motorists will be able to use the new left and right turn l...

9th Annual Gig Harbor Wings and Wheels returns July 6-7

Gig Harbor Wings and Wheels returns to Tacoma Narrows Airport July 6-7 with aerobatic performances, fly-overs, airplane, car and motorcycle displays, vendors, kids’ activities, food and a beer garden. 

The ninth annual event is presented...

Pioneer Way East entrance to Swan Creek Park closed June 17-21

The Swan Creek Park entrance near Pioneer Way East and Waller Road East on the southeast side of Swan Creek will be closed during the day June 17-21 while crews remove gravel from a nearby sediment pond.

In addition to the entrance, all park property on th...

Road project at 62nd Avenue Northwest and 144th Street Northwest intersection continues

Motorists will see increased construction activity on a project to improve the 62nd Avenue Northwest and 144th Street Northwest intersection starting July 1.

Some preparation work – including excavation work along 62nd Avenue Northwest and drivew...

Planning Commission to consider proposed updates to four community plans

The Pierce County Planning Commission will consider proposed updates to the Frederickson, Mid-County, Parkland-Spanaway-Midland and South Hill community plans at public meetings over the next few months.

Community plans provide direction on how growth and ...

New Cushman Trail segment to be built along 14th Avenue Northwest

Work on a new segment of the Cushman Trail along 14th Avenue Northwest will begin June 10. The work is expected to be completed by early August.

The 812-foot-long segment will run from the Cushman Trail trailhead on 14th Avenue Northwest to 300 feet north ...

Community input sought for aging and disability services

The Pierce County Human Services Aging & Disability Resources (ADR) division is initiating a survey to gather community input for the creation of the 2020-2023 Area Plan. As the designated Area Agency on Aging for Pierce County, ADR must develop and o...

Caregiver film series challenges intellectual disability label

Intellectual disabilities know no boundaries. They touch the lives of people from all racial, ethnic, social, and economic backgrounds. Many people with an intellectual disability lead full, rewarding, and contributing lives. Many find themselves pushed t...

Powerful tools essential for caregivers

The need for care isn’t just for older people. The unfortunate reality is that people of any age may require long-term care, defined as care lasting at least 12 months. When accidents happen, a short hospital stay may be the immediate aftermath,...

Council prioritizes broadband throughout Pierce County

The Broadband Access and Speed study makes recommendations on actions the County can undertake to improve broadband access in the community.

The study’s recommendations include advancing the county’s franchise process, updating County r...

County observes Memorial Day holiday

Pierce County administrative offices will be closed Monday, May 27 in observance of the Memorial Day holiday. Normal business hours will resume Tuesday, May 28. Emergency services will continue to operate without interruption.

It’s time to take ice bumper cars for a spin at Sprinker

What could make bumper cars more exciting? Just add ice! 

Check out Pierce County Parks’ newest attraction, ice bumper cars, at the grand opening over Memorial Day weekend. 

If you like bumper cars, you’ll want to exper...

Broadband Focus of County Council Meeting

The Pierce County Council will hold an in-district Council meeting at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, May 28 in the Gig Harbor High School Auditorium, 5101 Rosedale St. NW in Gig Harbor. This in-district meeting will be chaired by Councilmember Derek Young, District 7...

Additional Pierce County Ferry runs offered Memorial Day weekend

The Pierce County Ferry will offer additional runs to accommodate Memorial Day weekend travelers.

Pierce County will operate two boats between 12:30 p.m. and 11:30 p.m. on Friday, May 24, and between 10:30 a.m. and 3:20 p.m. on Monday, May 27. The ferry wi...

Pierce County Law Library to open kiosk at Lakewood Library

Thanks to the partnership between the Pierce County Law Library and Pierce County Library system, the Lakewood community will celebrate the grand opening of a second satellite branch inside the Lakewood Pierce County Library, 6300 Wildaire Road SW in Lake...

Access commercial site listings, demographic reports at InvestPierceCounty.com

Under the leadership of County Executive Bruce Dammeier, Pierce County’s Economic Development Department and the Economic Development Board for Tacoma-Pierce County (EDB) have announced the launch of an extensive online search tool of the Commercial Broke...

Pierce County wins national award for public nuisance portal

Pierce County’s Public Nuisance Portal allows staff to quickly respond to code complaints. That’s why the online portal has received an innovation award from the National Association of Counties (NACo).

The portal, available at www.pier...

Council approves Chambers Bay Resort Ground Lease Agreement

After months of public testimony, discussion and negotiation, the Pierce County Council voted 6-1 to approve Ordinance 2019-10s, the Chambers Bay Resort Ground Lease Agreement, as amended. The ordinance will now be sent to Executive Dammeier for signature...

Caring at home is the key

About eighty percent of us will need some form of long-term care in our lifetime. The reality is that most of that care will be provided at home, not a health care facility. Oftentimes the care provided is not medical, but rather assistance with basic tas...

Several items no longer accepted in Pierce County’s recycling program

Shredded paper, milk and juice cartons and plastic plant pots are no longer accepted in Pierce County’s recycling program.

This change affects all recycling, whether curbside or at drop-off locations, in Pierce County’s solid waste system. The Pierce Count...

Land Use Advisory Commissions to consider proposed updates to four community plans

The Land Use Advisory Commissions for Frederickson, Mid-County, Parkland-Spanaway-Midland and South Hill will consider proposed updates to each area’s community plan at public meetings in May and June.

Community plans provide direction on how growth and de...

Film explores bond between caregiver and woman living with ALS

Caregivers come from all kinds of backgrounds. People receiving care have diverse needs. The working relationship between them takes time to mature as the people involved get to know each other. In many cases, when developing a healthy rapport, caregiver ...

Special Joint Committee meeting being held between City of Tacoma and Pierce County

A special joint meeting will be held with the City of Tacoma Community Vitality and Safety Committee and Pierce County Council Human Services Committee at 4:30 p.m. on April 25, in the Pierce County Council Chambers, 930 Tacoma Ave. S., Room 1045 in Tacom...

County Council seeks citizen member for Performance Audit Committee

The Pierce County Council seeks applicants to fill one at-large position on the Performance Audit Committee. The Performance Audit Committee studies county programs to improve economy, efficiency and effectiveness. 

At-large members serve the publ...

The hunt is on: Spring Egg Hunt returns to Chambers Creek Regional Park, April 20

Bring your basket and hop on over to Chambers Creek Regional Park on Saturday, April 20 for our 2nd annual Spring Egg Hunt. This free event from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. will feature three egg hunts for ages one to 11. 

The egg hunt is broken into severa...

Chambers Bay Resort Focus of Pierce County Council Meeting

The Pierce County Council will hold an in-district Council meeting at 6:00 p.m. on April 16, at the Environmental Services Building, 9850 64th St W in University Place. This in-district meeting will be chaired by Councilwoman Connie Ladenburg, Pierce Coun...

Pierce County Point-in-Time Count results released

The 2019 Pierce County PIT (Point-in-Time) Count was conducted on January 25, 2019 via a mobile application.  

A total of 1,486 people experiencing homelessness were identified during the count, a decrease of 9% compared with the 2018 PIT count. V...

Tools for caregiving on the Alzheimer’s journey

With estimates of roughly 108,000 people in Washington state living with Alzheimer’s disease, it’s no surprise that more and more families are confronting the reality of caring for a loved one living with some form of dementia. Alzheim...

Learn about proposed updates to four community plans at April 13 open house

Pierce County residents are invited to learn about and provide feedback on proposed updates to the Frederickson, Mid-County, Parkland-Spanaway-Midland and South Hill Community Plans at an April 13 open house.

Community plans provide direction on how growth...

Milroy Bridge over Puyallup River to close April 9 for inspection

The Milroy Bridge over the Puyallup River at 66th Avenue East and River Road East will be closed from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on April 9 while crews perform a detailed structural inspection and general maintenance. Motorists will need to use an alternative route...

Caregiving film explores difficult choices for ill family members

Families always want the best for their loved ones. When it comes to caregiving, most decisions are made out of love, concern and the desire to respect the wishes of the partner. Occasionally, that sense of commitment and devotion can cloud judgment on wh...

Work at the intersection of 62nd Avenue Northwest and 144th Street Northwest starts April 9

Construction on a project to improve the intersection of 62nd Avenue Northwest and 144th Street Northwest will begin April 9. The project is expected to be complete in early 2020.

The project will increase the safety and efficiency of the intersection. Imp...

Pinwheels to raise awareness for Child Abuse Prevention Month

Hundreds of blue and silver pinwheels will spin on the south lawn of Pierce County Juvenile Court and throughout Pierce County in April to symbolize the need for child abuse prevention. 

Since 1983, the United States has observed the month of Apri...

Section of 22nd Avenue East to close March 21-25 while road is rebuilt

About 600 feet of 22nd Avenue East from where it intersects with 152nd Street East will be closed from 8 p.m. Thursday, March 21 to 6 a.m. Monday, March 25 while crews rebuild the road.

Crews will excavate the road down approximately 7 feet, rebuild, widen...

Annual county roadside herbicide applications start March 25

Pierce County roadsides will get an annual makeover this spring and summer. 

An initial application of herbicides to combat weeds along road shoulders will start March 25, and continue through June. Targeted noxious weeds and brush control applica...

Take a Sneak Peek into Pierce County Parks Summer Camps

Take a Sneak Peek into Pierce County Parks Summer Camps 

Come and join Pierce County Parks and Recreation for the Summer Camp Preview Fair on Saturday, March 23 from 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. at Sprinker Recreation Center, 14824 C St. S., Ta...

Caregiving film dives into dysfunctional family dynamics

Caring for a loved one can be difficult, especially for families with strained relationships. Complications may arise when adult children need to care for abusive, neglectful or estranged relatives. It may be difficult for families to navigate through iss...

The Bridal Showcase returns to the Environmental Services Building, March 3

So you said yes, but don’t know where to begin planning one of the most memorable days of your life? Don’t stress. The Bridal Showcase at the Environmental Services Building will connect you with up to 20 different vendors Sunday, Marc...

Aging into the Future: Pierce County 2020-2030

Over the next 10 years, Pierce County will look substantially different than it does today – especially for older adults and individuals with disabilities. By the year 2030, a large percentage of county residents will be over the age of 60 and many of the...

County observes Presidents Day holiday

Pierce County administrative offices will be closed Monday, Feb. 18, in observance of the Presidents Day holiday. Normal business hours will resume Tuesday, Feb. 19. Emergency services will continue to operate without interruption.

Second Tacoma-Pierce County Opioid Summit to take place on Feb. 22

The opioid epidemic in Pierce County will take center stage on Friday, Feb. 22 at the second Tacoma-Pierce County Opioid Summit. 

The Tacoma-Pierce County Opioid Summit is scheduled from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Chris Knutzen Hall, Pacific Lutheran Uni...

Caring at home is key to healthcare

About eighty percent of us will need some form of long term care in our lifetimes. Most of that care, including assistance with basic personal tasks, will be provided in the home, not in an expensive health care facility. While many families pay for care ...

Public invited to Feb. 6 open house on 92nd Avenue East and 224th Street East intersection project

The public is invited to learn about Pierce County's plans to improve the intersection at 92nd Avenue East and 224th Street East at an open house on Feb. 6 at North Star Elementary, 7719 224th St. E in Graham.

Attendees can stop by the school’s g...

Superior Court Commissioner Meagan Foley retires

Pierce County Superior Court is announcing the retirement of Court Commissioner Meagan Foley from the bench after more than 30 years. Commissioner Foley’s last day is today, Jan. 18, 2019. She is a graduate of the University of Puget Sound School of Law w...

County observes Martin Luther King Jr. holiday

Pierce County administrative offices will be closed Monday, Jan. 21, in observance of the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday. Normal business hours will resume Tuesday, Jan. 22. Emergency services will continue to operate without interruption.

Council passes legislative priorities addressing State’s closure of civil commitment beds

The Pierce County Council adopted Resolution 2019-2, 2019 legislative priorities to address the closure of civil commitment beds at Western State Hospital as recommended by the Pierce County Western State Hospital Task Force (PC Task Force). Priorities fo...

Volunteers, donations needed for the Point-In-Time Count

Every day in Pierce County, hundreds of people sleep in cars, shelters, or on the streets. They are someone’s mom, dad, child, or friend. Do you ever wonder how they lost everything and became homeless? Or how many more people are in a similar situation? ...

Wheeled all-terrain vehicles allowed on select Pierce County roads starting Jan. 1

Wheeled all-terrain vehicles will be allowed on select roads in unincorporated Pierce County starting Jan. 1, 2019. 

Pierce County Ordinance No. 2018-59, which allows the use, was passed by the Pierce County Council in September, and approved by P...

County and City begin process to strengthen family violence prevention, domestic violence services

Pierce County and the City of Tacoma are launching efforts to comprehensively assess and strengthen key family violence prevention and domestic violence services in Pierce County. 

“There should never be a life lost due to domestic viole...

Caregiver film focuses on family relationships

Caregiving can be complicated. It is not just a two-way street between care givers and care receivers. Caregiving creates a web of relationships between spouses, children, parents, other relatives, friends and neighbors. Often those relationships move to ...

2018 Supplemental Budget passes with investments towards homeless youth

The Pierce County Council voted unanimously on Tuesday, Nov. 27. to adopt a supplemental budget with funding for homeless youth, courts and abatement. 

“Funding projects like Coffee Oasis where homeless youth will be served and provided ...

Free forum designed to help businesses recruit talent during times of low unemployment

We are living in exciting times. The labor market is changing faster than ever before, changing the way we hire talent -- and the 21st century skills demand a different kind of approach to identifying talent. 

Pierce County Economic Development, i...

Council passes 2019 budget with investments toward the future

The Pierce County Council voted 6-0 to adopt the County’s 2019 capital and operating budget of $1.08 billion. The new budget takes effect Jan. 1, 2019, pending the County Executive’s signature.

“Council has been making signifi...

District Court Resource Center to host second employer outreach event

WorkSource has teamed up with Pierce County’s District Court Resource Center to host their second “Employer of the Day” event Friday, Nov. 30 from 8:30 to 11 a.m. This monthly event connects community job seekers with employers who have essential position...

Social Security retirement

Social Security is the cornerstone of retirement plans for most Americans. The program continues to evolve and for individuals preparing to start their Social Security benefits, changes may impact their retirement plans. With some knowledge and a few simp...

County observes Veterans Day

Pierce County administrative offices will be closed Monday, Nov. 12, in observance of Veterans Day. Normal business hours will resume on Tuesday, Nov. 13. Emergency services will continue to operate without interruption.

Heritage Recreation Center's soccer and baseball field get an all-season turf upgrade

Pierce County Parks and Recreation replaced a soccer field and baseball field with synthetic turf at Heritage Recreation Center in South Hill.

The new fields are covered in a synthetic turf that includes an infill product called Envirofill – a high-perform...

Hope and healing come to the Orting Valley

More than 3 million young Americans between the ages of 12 and 25 suffer from drug addiction. 

Drug addiction is an issue that affects everyone, even here at home. In Pierce County, from 2012 to 2017, the number of opioid-related deaths rose to 42...

Join the conversation at SAGE Table Tacoma

There are an estimated 3 million Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender (LGBT) adults over the age of 50 living in the United States today. The Age Wave will increase that to nearly 7 million by 2030. Despite increasing visibility and recognition, loneliness...

Economic Development Focus of Pierce County Council Meeting

The Pierce County Council will hold an in-district Council meeting at 5:30 p.m. on Nov. 7, at the University Place City Hall, 3715 Bridgeport Way West in University Place. This in-district meeting will be chaired by Councilwoman Connie Ladenburg, Pierce C...

Reduce flooding by keeping storm drains clear of leaves

Pierce County residents can help reduce roadway flooding by keeping storm drains free of leaves.

“Leaves can clog storm drains, resulting in roadway flooding when it rains,” said Dennis Hanberg, Pierce County Planning and Public Works d...

District Court Resource Center to continue hosting Employer of the Day events

WorkSource teamed up with Pierce County District Court’s Resource Center to host “Employer of the Day” events, where employers can connect with community job seekers. 

On Friday, Oct. 26, WorkSource brought representatives from Fastenal, a local f...

Superior Court invites public to the Pierce County Courthouse mural reveal party

On Thursday, Nov. 29, Pierce County Superior Court will hold a reveal party for the latest installment of the Court History Project. 

Phase 2 involves the installation of a five-panel mural which showcases each of the four courthouses Superior Cou...

Rick Talbert to host his last Council In-District meeting

The Pierce County Council will hold an in-district Council meeting at 6 p.m. Oct. 30, in the Lincoln High School Cafeteria, 701 S. 37th St. in Tacoma. This in-district meeting will be chaired by Councilmember Rick Talbert, Pierce County Council District 5...

Public invited to Canvassing Board meeting

The Canvassing Board of Pierce County, pursuant to chapter 29A.60 RCW, will hold a public special meeting Friday, Oct. 26 at 11:30 a.m. to update the Canvassing Board manual. A record of the meeting will be available for public inspection and copying.

The ...

Celebrating caregivers through candid conversations

Most long-term care is provided in-home by loved ones such as spouses, adult children, relatives and friends. These informal caregivers are crucial for the safety and well-being of their beloved. Despite the demanding and difficult tasks, very few caregiv...

Bentley Road East reopens where it meets 72nd Street East

Bentley Road East reopened where it intersects with 72nd Street East at 6:30 p.m. Oct. 18. 

The road was closed July 11 as part of a project to rebuild a slope along 72nd Street East. 

The slope is located on the north side of 72nd Street ...

Pierce County Council Meeting to be held in Fife

The Pierce County Council will hold an in-district Council meeting at 7 p.m. on Oct. 23, at the The Dacca Barn, 2820 54th Ave. E in Fife. This in-district meeting will be chaired by Councilwoman Pam Roach, Pierce County Coun...

Community invited to visit online open house about future Canyon Road East improvements

Pierce County is planning major improvements to the Canyon Road East corridor that will help reduce traffic congestion, save travelers time and money, aid freight movement and support new jobs. 

Community members are invited to visit an online ope...

General Election at a glance

The General Election on Nov. 6 is fast approaching and the Auditor's Office has provided key information to know at-a-glance, including schedules, voting centers, what's on the ballot, and more.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Julie Anderson, Pierce County Auditor

2...

Resources, services, providers highlight Making the Link 2018

Pierce County’s “Making the Link” is an annual showcase of care providers for older adults and individuals with disabilities. There will be over 70 exhibitors featuring in-home care, assisted and skilled nursing facilities, e...

Pierce County Council meeting at new Lakewood Pavilion

The Pierce County Council will hold an in-district Council meeting at 5 p.m. on Oct. 9, at the Lakewood Pavilion inside Fort Steilacoom Park, 8714 87^th Ave. SW in Lakewood. This in-district meeting will be chaired by Chair Doug Richardson, Pierce County C...

Council approves updated Shoreline Master Plan

The Pierce County Council passed unanimously Ordinance 2018-57s which amends the adopted 2015 Shoreline Master Program (SMP) regulations and guidelines to be consistent with state regulations.

The legislature required in 2003 that all counties update their...

KING-5 reporter Glenn Farley to discuss earthquakes preparedness and recovery

It’s old news the Pacific Northwest is primed for a major earthquake. It’s equally old news the Pacific Northwest is unprepared for that impending disaster. Recent earthquake and volcanic activity around the Pacific – from Guatemala to Hawaii and beyond– ...

Mistakes to avoid when looking for a care facility

Many families feel like they have been thrown into the fire when the need to find a care facility for themselves or a loved one. There are scores of long term care facilities throughout Pierce County – adult family homes, assisted living, skille...

Relationships change when caregiving needs begin

Friendships can last a lifetime. When childhood friendships continue into adulthood, they can evolve into something more, such as a tremendous support system offering encouragement, and even growing into caregiving. Not all caregivers are family. Many car...

Changing the face of championship golf in the Pacific Northwest

Chambers Bay will replace its fine fescue putting surfaces with perennial Poa annua in a decision that will immediately improve daily playing conditions and ensure the ability to conduct an exemplary USGA Championship in 2021, officials for Chambers Bay r...

Elk Plain Grange to host Pierce County Council meeting

The Pierce County Council will hold an in-district Council meeting at 6:30 p.m. on Sept. 25, at the Elk Plain Grange, 21817 Mountain Highway East in Spanaway. This in-district meeting will be chaired by Councilmember Jim McCune, Pierce County Council Dist...

Pierce County Executive presents 2019 budget to Council

Pierce County Executive Bruce Dammeier presented his proposed 2019 budget to the County Council this afternoon. Noting that household income is up, housing starts are up and Pierce County achieved the nation’s largest year-over-year percentage increase in...

Purchasing forum helps businesses work with government

Businesses looking to win government contracts have that opportunity at the annual Greater Pierce County Purchasing Forum.  This free event takes place Thursday, Oct. 11 from 8:30 a.m.- 12 p.m. at the McGavick Conference Center located on the cam...

M/V Christine Anderson dry dock project begins Sept. 17

The required dry docking of the M/V Christine Anderson, one of Pierce County’s two ferries, will begin Sept. 17 and is expected to be complete by Nov. 2. The county’s other ferry, the M/V Steilacoom II, will handle the full schedule.

Pu...

Falls prevention event highlights awareness, action

Falls are the scourge of aging. They can result in minor sprains and bruises or cause major bone breaks. They can even result in hospitalization or death. As the number of seniors continues to grow, the number of fall-related injuries continues to increas...

Attend a Pierce County Council meeting in Gig Harbor

The Pierce County Council is holding an in-district Council meeting at 6:00 p.m. on Sept. 11, in the Peninsula High School Auditorium, 14105 Purdy Dr. NW in Gig Harbor.

Each member of the Pierce County Council hosts at least one in-district meeting each ye...

Pierce County ends management of Fort Steilacoom Golf Course

After 47 years, Pierce County Parks will no longer operate the Fort Steilacoom Golf Course (FSGC).

The course is on land leased from the State of Washington and the property will return to the State’s control.  

Pierce College and a few l...

Auditor schedules requested recount

The Pierce County Auditor will conduct a requested partial recount for the offices of U.S. Senator and U.S. Representative - 10th Congressional District. 

The recount will begin Wednesday, Sept. 5, at 8:30 a.m. and will conclude with the Pierce Co...

Wastewater treatment plant expansion wins National Project of the Year Award

The project to expand Pierce County’s Chambers Creek Regional Wastewater Treatment Plant has won the American Public Works Association’s “Project of the Year” award in the “Environment - more than $75 million” category.

This national award recognizes excel...

Crisis Recovery Center to be located in Parkland

Council voted 6-0 on Ordinance 2018-56 which amends a proviso in the 2018 budget, authorizing the release of $500,000 for crisis recovery center construction. The initial funding for the center was proposed by Executive Dammeier and adopted by th...

Preventable falls among seniors reach epidemic proportions

One small accident, like tripping on a rug or slipping on a wet floor, can change your life. For older adults, a break can be the start of more serious problems, such as a hip fracture, head injury, or even death. 

Since 2003, the number of deaths...

Bentley Road East closure extended to mid-October as part of slope work

Bentley Road East will remain closed where it intersects with 72nd Street East through mid-October. 

The road was closed July 11 as part of a project to rebuild a slope along 72nd Street East. The road was expected to reopen in late August, but th...

Caregivers can identify with Happy Tears

Caregivers give it their all – blood, sweat and tears. What started out as helping around the house can easily become a full-time job. Caring can bring up a mix of emotions, especially if you’re providing around the clock care. One day...

Washington Task Force 1 deployed to Hawaii for disaster response

Washington Task Force 1 (WA-TF1) is deploying to Hawaii in support of Hurricane Lane. Later today, 35 members of WA-TF1 will depart from SeaTac, Wash. 

WA-TF1 is a specially trained and equipped Urban Search and Rescue Task Force consisting of 26 ...

Get crazy at Kidz Kraze Festival on Aug. 26

Summer is coming to an end, but that doesn’t mean the fun has to stop. Here’s your chance to relish in the warm weather, fun games, and yummy food – all while enjoying the beautiful views of Chambers Bay.

Pierce County Parks &...

Pierce County Medical Examiner seeks family or friends for 50 unclaimed decedents

What happens when someone dies and no one claims their body?  In the case of Pierce County, Wash., the Medical Examiner’s office arranges the cremation of the decedents and provides a respectful distribution of the cremains in a non-den...

Pierce County launches latest effort to increase transparency and accountability

How long does a resident wait in the lobby of the Pierce County Auditor’s office?  How many County residents have earned a 4-year college degree?  Starting today, residents and other interested parties can find out at open.pier...

Auditor seeks to appoint committee members for voters’ pamphlet

The Pierce County Auditor’s Office is opening a special appointment period to recruit individuals to write “Against” committee statements for the November 6, 2018 General Election Local Voters’ Pamphlet.Against Comm...

Video News: The best trails in Pierce County

Pierce County News for the week of July 26 - Aug. 9, 2018

• A trail that travels far: Ride the Buckley to South Prairie section of the Foothills Trail
• Play and explore! Ashford County Park is a hidden gem near Mt. Rainier
• Nathan Chapman Trail is the perfect tr...

Caregiver film series focuses on relationship stress

It may start with driving your loved one to get groceries or go to the doctor. Later, you may find yourself taking time off work, preparing meals, or handling the bills. Regardless of where you are at on your caregiving journey, there are many responsibil...

Pierce County awarded $3.2 million grant for crisis stabilization center

Pending approval by the Pierce County Council, a stabilization center for those in the throes of a behavioral crisis is one step closer to opening its doors to County residents. The center was identified as a major priority by first responders and the pro...

Work at 152nd Street East and 22nd Avenue East intersection starts Aug. 1

Work to relieve traffic congestion and improve the intersection of 152nd Street East and 22nd Avenue East will start Aug. 1.Over the course of the project, a traffic signal will be added at the T-shaped intersection. Left and right turn lanes from 22nd Av...

Council passes Family-Wage Jobs Credit Program

The Pierce County Council voted unanimously to pass the Family-Wage Jobs Credit Program Ordinance 2018-51s, which aims to increase the number of higher paying jobs in unincorporated Pierce County, attract new businesses, enhance economic activity and expa...

Video News: Property taxes, caregiver movies, Ashford County Park, and more

Pierce County News for the week of July 12-26, 2018

• Property values on the rise, what it means for your property taxes in 2019
• New Medicare cards will no longer show Social Security numbers
• Caregivers are celebrated through a new film series at the Grand Cin...

Council to consider Family-Wage Jobs Credit Program

The Pierce County Council will review Ordinance 2018-51, the Family-Wage Jobs Credit Program, at the Rules and Operations Committee on Monday, July 16 at 10 a.m.

If the ordinance passes out of the Rules and Operations Committee, it will be presented to the...

Countywide burn ban in Pierce County begins Thursday, July 12

Due to dry weather, both now and in forecasts, Pierce County’s Fire Marshal, in partnership with the Pierce County Fire Chiefs’ Association, has declared a countywide burn ban effective Thursday, July 12 at 8 a.m., until further notice...

Open house, public hearing on Traffic Impact Fee Program recommendations set for July 11

The community is invited to provide feedback on recommendations to update Pierce County’s Traffic Impact Fee Program at a July 11 open house and public hearing.Traffic impact fees are charged when an individual or company develops property for r...

County observes Independence Day

Pierce County administrative offices will be closed Wednesday, July 4 in observance of Independence Day. Normal business hours will resume on Thursday, July 5. Emergency services will continue to operate without interruption.

Video News: Internet speed test, tour Betsy Ross, new fireworks rules, and more

Pierce County News for the week of June 28-July 12, 2018

• County says new portal is cleaning up public nuisance properties
• County-wide broadband survey includes free high-speed internet test 
• Pierce County hires new Economic Development Director from...

State grant pays for pollution spill equipment and training

Pierce County will use a $100,000 grant from the Washington State Department of Ecology to purchase pollution spill prevention equipment and provide training to employees on how to respond to pollution spills.“County first responders and stormwa...

Work to rebuild 72nd Street East slope starts July 9

Work to rebuild a slope along 72nd Street East will begin July 9. The work is expected to be complete in early fall.

The slope is located on the north side of 72nd Street East about 270 feet west of Bentley Road East. The slope failed during a rainstorm in...

Work to replace Pierce County Ferry’s secondary slip at Steilacoom Dock starts July 15

A construction project to replace the Pierce County Ferry System’s secondary ferry slip at the Steilacoom Dock will begin July 15 and run through the end of the year.The system has two ferries. The ferry that is not in service is normally docked...

Powerful tools make a difference for caregivers

Every day in the United States, 40 million people help their parents, grandparents, relatives or neighbors with the daily activities of living, including dressing, bathing, cooking, shopping, and taking medication. Here in Washington, there are more than ...

Ferry runs added for Independence Day and summertime travelers

The Pierce County Ferry will offer additional runs to accommodate Independence Day and summertime travelers between Steilacoom and Anderson and Ketron islands.The ferry will follow the standard weekday schedule on July 3, with an additional run leaving St...

Capestany selected as Pierce County Economic Development Director

Pierce County is one of the fastest growing regions in the United States.  Spurring economic development and creating family-wage jobs for the vibrant South Sound will be the top priority of the County’s newest economic development dire...

Caregiver film series begins at Tacoma’s Grand Cinema

In communities all over the world, family members are taking care of relatives who are sick, disabled, or needing assistance in some way. By some estimates, one in four families is engaged in caregiving activities, with eighty percent of that care provide...

Section of Stone Drive Northwest reopens

A segment of Stone Drive Northwest reopened at 8 a.m. Wednesday, June 20 after being closed as part of construction on a roundabout at the intersection of Point Fosdick Drive Northwest, Stone Drive Northwest, and 34th Avenue Northwest.Approximately 900 fe...

Pierce County offers free 1-ton totes of SoundGRO® fertilizer

For a limited time, Pierce County is offering free 1-ton totes of SoundGRO® fertilizer while supplies last.Orders must be placed at www.piercecountywa.gov/SoundGRO and must be picked up at the Chambers Creek Regional Wastewater Treatment Plant, 10...

Video News: Suicide prevention, filling Sheriff vacancies, vintage aircraft museum, and more

Pierce County News for the week of June 14-28, 

• Pierce County Council sends Charter Amendments to November ballot
• TPCHD says more people need testing after Good Sam hepatitis outbreak
• Bates students design new containers for County ballot boxes
• Save ...

Human Services spotlights World Elder Abuse Awareness Day

Pierce County will join in the observation of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day on Friday, June 15, as the world voices its opposition to elder abuse, neglect, and financial exploitation. On this day, we extend our support to elder victims and their loved o...

8th Annual Gig Harbor Wings and Wheels expanded to two days, June 30-July 1

Gig Harbor Wings and Wheels is back for its eighth year with airshows featuring aerobatic performances, fly-overs, airplane, car and motorcycle displays, live music, food, a beer garden and kids’ activities.

The air show and car show, which is pr...

Construction resumes on Puyallup River side channel near Orting

Construction on a Puyallup River side channel near Orting resumed on June 11.

The new 1,400-foot side channel will reduce impacts to nearby neighborhoods from river flooding and establish salmon habitat. Construction began in September 2017.

Construction on...

Video News: Pierce County job credit, Foothills Trail in Buckley, Pacific highway paving, and more

Pierce County News for the week of May 31-June 14, 2018

• Puyallup River Bridge closure affects Fife and Tacoma drivers
• Stone Drive in Gig Harbor area to be closed in June
• Pierce County hires new Human Resources director
• County and nine cities offer job credit ...

Traffic revision coming to Prairie Ridge Drive East June 11

Motorists will no longer be able to turn onto Prairie Ridge Drive East from South Prairie Road East starting June 11.Motorists will instead enter Prairie Ridge Drive East from 120th Street East. Motorists will still be able to turn onto South Prairie Road...

County observes Memorial Day

Pierce County administrative offices will be closed Monday, May 28 in observance of Memorial Day. Normal business hours will resume on Tuesday, May 29. Emergency services will continue to operate without interruption.

Unravel the mysteries of Medicaid

Medicaid insurance is a lifeline for many individuals relying on long term care. Also known as Washington Apple Health, this coverage pays for necessary medical expenses for over 122,000 adults and children in Pierce County.

While Medicaid funding is most ...

Pierce County leaders announce proposals for family-wage job credits

An unprecedented number of Pierce County elected officials have come together to clearly state: Pierce County is open to business!Gathered at a press conference at Centeris Data Center in Puyallup today, Pierce County and city officials announced proposal...

Section of Stone Drive Northwest to be closed for 30 days starting May 29

A segment of Stone Drive Northwest will be closed for approximately 30 days starting May 29 as part of construction on a roundabout at the intersection of Point Fosdick Drive Northwest, Stone Drive Northwest, and 34th Avenue Northwest.Approximately 900 fe...

Video News: $75M for Tacoma light rail, paving Sumner's new bridge, renew boat tabs, and more

Pierce County News for the week of May 17-31, 2018

• Headlines: County airports for emergencies, $75M for Tacoma light rail, District Court Judge Oaks, Law Enforcement Memorial
• Deadline nears for boat owners to renew their tabs
• Clients find a job and confidenc...

Archer named new Pierce County Human Resources director

Following a nationwide search, Pierce County has selected Judith C. Archer to be director of Human Resources.Archer joins the County from Kinder Morgan, Inc., where she served nearly eight years as the director of Human Resources for the Texas-based energ...

Pierce County Council comments on the passing of Claudia Thomas

Pierce County Council comments on the passing of Claudia ThomasStatement from Pierce County Council Chair Doug RichardsonThe Pierce County Council was saddened to learn about the passing of former Lakewood Mayor Claudia Thomas. Claudia was an outstanding ...

Additional ferry service offered Memorial Day weekend

The Pierce County Ferry will offer additional runs to accommodate Memorial Day weekend travelers.Pierce County will operate two boats between 12:30 p.m. and 6 p.m. on Friday, May 25, and between 9:30 a.m. and 2:50 p.m. on Monday, May 28. An additional run...

Auditor seeks to appoint committee members for voters’ pamphlet

The Pierce County Auditor’s Office is opening a special appointment period to recruit individuals to write “Against” committee statements for the Aug. 7, 2018, Primary Election Local Voters’ Pamphlet for Fire Protec...

Executive statement on Western State Hospital

Statement from Pierce County Executive Bruce Dammeier:“I applaud Governor Inslee’s announcement today to focus our mental health care system on keeping patients who need long term care in their communities. For too long, hard to treat ...

Puget Sound Starts Here Month encourages residents to adopt Sound-healthy behaviors

Pierce County is teaming up with hundreds of organizations across Puget Sound to encourage residents to commit to at least one Sound‐healthy action during May’s Puget Sound Starts Here Month.“Pierce County’s stunning views an...

Candidate filing week begins May 14

Candidate filing begins Monday, May 14 with the Pierce County Auditor’s Office.Offices open for election this year include:

• U.S. Senator
• U.S. Representatives (Congress)
• State Senators and Representatives
• Pierce County Offices
• Judicial Offices includi...

Apply for a landmarks preservation grant by June 8

The Pierce County Landmarks and Historic Preservation Commission is accepting applications for the 2019 Historic Preservation Grant Program.

The program’s goal is to distribute small, yet meaningful, grants to help promote historic preservation t...

Video News: Medication boxes, Lake Tapps safety, Parkland Prairie, and more

Pierce County News for the week of May 3-17, 2018

• Headlines: Medication drop-off boxes, E-911 update, new district court judge, funding public defenders
• Tips for swimming safely on Lake Tapps to prevent drowning
• WSDOT explains lane shifts and detours coming ...

Coordinating medical and mental health care to improve outcomes

In a perfect world, a patient’s physical and mental health care would be coordinated among his or her various doctors, providing whole-person care that not only treats ongoing health issues but addresses prevention to avoid painful and expensive...

Public invited to sign dedication at historic McMillin Bridge on May 15

The public is invited to attend the unveiling of a new interpretive sign honoring the McMillin Bridge and Homer Hadley, the structural engineer who conceived the major design features of the bridge.The sign dedication begins at 6 p.m. May 15 at the Foothi...

Learn how the new tax cuts and Jobs Act impact your business at free seminar

Find out how you can maximize your tax-saving opportunities at a free educational forum for local businesses on May 10.Hosted by the Economic Development departments of Pierce County and the City of Lakewood, the forum will be held at the Lakewood City Ha...

New curb ramps, sidewalks to be installed on C Street South

New curb ramps and sidewalks will be installed on C Street South to improve accessibility and sidewalk connectivity. Construction will start May 7, and is expected to be complete by mid-August.

New curb ramps that comply with Americans with Disabilities Ac...

Workshops help wade through disaster insurance

Pierce County is in the crosshairs for an exceptionally wide range of natural disasters – wind storms, flooding, mudslides, earthquakes, tsunamis, volcanos and fires. Homeowners and renters need to give careful consideration not only to how they...

New email and website addresses for Pierce County starting May 19

Sending an email to Pierce County is going to be simpler and more intuitive. Starting May 19, residents can use firstname.lastname@piercecountywa.gov to reach County employees. Learn more here.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Libby Catalinich, Pierce County Communications ...

2018 Watersheds Small Grants Program announced

Pierce County is partnering with the City of Lakewood, watershed councils, local organizations and agencies to fund a small grants program supporting projects improving habitat and water quality in Pierce County.The small grant programs are currently avai...

Workshop lays out Social Security Disability basics

Most of us expect to live long, healthy lives. So when a disabling injury or illness occurs, it can trigger a range of unsettling emotions and fears – not only for the person with the disability –  but also for family members ...

County Council appoints Lloyd Oaks to judicial seat

The Council voted 5-2 to appoint Lloyd Oaks to serve as the Position 4 judge on the Pierce County District Court bench.

Oaks has extensive military judicial experience and currently serves as a Deputy Prosecuting attorney. He will succeed Judge James Helle...

Construction on Point Fosdick Drive Northwest roundabout begins April 30

Construction on a roundabout at the intersection of Point Fosdick Drive Northwest, Stone Drive Northwest, and 34th Avenue Northwest will begin April 30. The bulk of the work is expected to be complete by early December.A roundabout is a circular intersect...

Road project on section of Canyon Road East starts April 25; two weekend closures scheduled for May

A Pierce County project to improve Canyon Road East between 192nd Street East and Frederickson Industrial Park Road East will begin April 25. The bulk of the work is expected to be complete by the fall.This section of Canyon Road East currently has two la...

Video News: Orville levee construction, Fife's Brookville Park, 'Garbology' recycling

Pierce County News for the week of April 19, 2018

• Headlines: Summer ferry fares, Fife Community Garden
• County’s supplemental budget puts money into new sheriff deputies
• See how levee work along Puyallup River will protect Orville Road
• &...

Community invited to weigh in on Flood Hazard Management Plan update

The community is invited to weigh in on an update of the Pierce County Rivers Flood Hazard Management Plan via an online open house through May 4.The plan guides how flooding and the associated hazards on major rivers, large tributaries, and associated fl...

Council passes 2018 supplemental budget with emphasis on public safety

The $3.7 million 2018 supplemental budget passed today by the Pierce County Council focuses on supporting public safety, parks and community infrastructure improvements.

Public safety funding includes:

• An additional FTE to handle abatement cases in the civi...

Peak season fares for Pierce County Ferry start May 1

Peak season fares start May 1 for Pierce County Ferry passengers. The base fare for vehicles up to 22 feet in length will increase from $18.35 to $23.85. Fares for seniors and disabled persons with vehicle will increase from $15.25 to $19.80. Value Pass, ...

Milroy Bridge to close April 17 for guardrail repairs

The Milroy Bridge will be closed from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. April 17 while Pierce County crews repair guardrails on the north end of the bridge.The bridge crosses the Puyallup River on 66th Avenue East between River Road East and North Levee Road East. Motoris...

Aging and Disability Resources seeks Advisory Board members

Just 15 people can make a world of difference for tens of thousands of seniors and people with disabilities in Pierce County.The Pierce County Aging and Disability Resources (ADR) Advisory Board is seeking new members to fill current vacancies to assist i...

Judge Ross announces retirement from District Court

Pierce County District Court Judge Maggie Ross has announced her retirement at the end of 2018.After 35 plus years as an employee of Pierce County, with over 20 years on the bench, Judge Ross has announced she will not seek re-election and will retire at ...

Expect delays along Grandview Drive West beginning April 9

Starting April 9, seven sewer manholes will be repaired along Grandview Drive West between Soundview Drive West and Cirque Drive West and along 64th Street West between Grandview Drive West and Chambers Creek Road West. The project is expected to take thr...

Sheriff's Department hosting hiring workshop, April 11

The Pierce County Sheriff’s Department is hosting a hiring workshop Wednesday, April 11 from 6 to 9:30 p.m. at the Pierce County Jail, 701 Nollmeyer Lane in Tacoma.

If you’re interested in becoming a Pierce County Sheriff’s De...

Workshops explores alternative vacations for older adults

There’s nothing more rejuvenating than a great vacation. And non-traditional getaways are growing quickly in popularity.While traditional vacations remain popular, new concepts include ecotourism, voluntourism and housesitting, as options rapidl...

Spinning pinwheels raise awareness for child abuse prevention

The Pierce County Juvenile Court is recognizing National Child Abuse Prevention Month and the “Pinwheels for Prevention” campaign, where pinwheels will be planted across the Juvenile Court lawn and throughout Pierce County during the m...

Advance care directive workshops provide help to protect your health care decisions

If you became unable to speak, who would make your medical decisions? While two-thirds of Americans have wills for their estates or possessions, only 15 percent have advance directives for health care – most often written by legal professionals, not healt...

Video News: Injection sites, State of the County, Sounders S2, and more

Pierce County News for the week of March 22, 2018

• 2018 County priorities revealed in State of the County address
• Fife police offer free services including car seat checks
• Seattle Sounders S2, a home run at Tacoma’s Cheney Stadium
• Olympic coach bring...

Hop on out to the Spring Egg Hunt, March 31

Hop straight to Chambers Creek Regional Park’s Central Meadow for the Spring Egg Hunt on Saturday, March 31. This free event starts at 9 a.m.The egg grab is designed beautiful for children ages 1 through 11. Kids will be delighted to find colorf...

Pierce County Council meeting to be held in Orting on March 27

The Pierce County Council will hold an in-district Council meeting at 5:30 p.m. on Mar. 27, at the Orting Multi-Purpose Center, 202 Washington Ave. S. in Orting.  This in-district meeting will be chaired by Councilmember Dan Roach, Pierce County ...

Pierce County Auditor calls for independent election observers

“To maintain confidence in election accuracy and integrity, we must have citizens independently observe election activities,” said Pierce County Auditor Julie Anderson.

While Washington State law calls for volunteers from the two major ...

Dammeier outlines 2017 successes, 2018 priorities in State of the County address

Pierce County Executive Bruce Dammeier underscored the power of partnerships as he delivered his annual State of the County address today.Speaking to a packed room at the County-City Building, Dammeier discussed some of the most significant issues facing ...

Spring into fun at Family Bingo Night, April 6

Spring is in the air which means sounds of family fun will be heard for miles around Chambers Creek Regional Park at Parks and Recreation’s annual Family Bingo Night on Friday, April 6 from 6:30 to 9 p.m.Doors open at 6 p.m. Event admission is $5 per pers...

Town hall focuses on healthy LGBTQ aging in Pierce County

Like the rest of America, baby boomers in the LGBTQ community are facing retirement.  The life expectancy in the United States now averages 78.6 years.  And when it comes to LGBTQ aging, there is much more concern than simply the years a...

Video News: New K-9 Dan, Lincoln High votes, Shaw Road closure, and more

Pierce County News for the week of March 8-22, 2018

• Headlines: Port of Tacoma Cranes, Youth Voter Act, Memorial Day veterans brick
• 2018 State of the County preview with Executive Bruce Dammeier
• Pierce County K-9 Unit welcomes new police dog
• Lincoln High Schoo...

Annual county roadside maintenance starts March 26

Pierce County roadsides will get an annual makeover this spring and summer.An initial application of herbicides to combat weeds along road shoulders will start March 26, and continue through June. Targeted noxious weeds and brush control applications will...

Pierce County communication leaders presenting at international expo

Pierce County Emergency Management and the Combined Communications Network (CCN) will be presenting How an Innovative Joint-Partnership Led to the Second Largest 700 TDMA System in the US on Tuesday, March 6, 2018 at the International Wireless Communicati...

Workshops provide powerful tools to help support caregivers

Many people don’t plan to take on the role of caregiver to a loved one. The responsibilities of providing medical assistance and everyday social care are not part of their reality — until they are. Research shows that family members wh...

Take a sneak peak into summer activities offered by Parks and Recreation

The official start of summer is still three months away, but the season will start warming up soon. To help you plan your summer adventures, Pierce County’s Parks and Recreation will give families a chance to plan their summer in just one day, w...

Video News: Sumner Town Center, Library survey, Bates Food Truck, and more

Pierce County News for the week of Feb. 22 - March 8, 2018

• Headlines: February Special Election, State Election Bills, PCRC Annual Meeting
• Sumner holds open house on Town Center Plan
• Agreement adds flexibility to WATF-1 in-state deployments
• Pierce County Libr...

Applicants sought for Surface Water Management Advisory Board

Pierce County is seeking applicants for the Surface Water Management Advisory Board (SWAB). The appointee will fill a term that lasts two years. This position is unpaid.To learn more about the board and access an application, visit www.piercecountywa.org/...

Free Advance Care Directive workshops to be held in March

Would your loved ones be prepared to make personal, emotional, medical or spiritual needs wishes if you became seriously ill?Pierce County’s Aging and Disability Resource Center will host “Five Wishes…and More”, a ...

Video News: Feb. Special Election, State Election Bills, and more

Pierce County News for the week of Feb. 22 to March 8, 2018

• Sumner holds open house on Town Center Plan to accommodate growing community 
• Agreement adds flexibility to WATF-1 in-state deployments
• Pierce County Library launches new ...

Pierce County Council continues conversation on prohibiting drug injection sites

The Council will introduce legislation within the next month that would prohibit drug injection sites in unincorporated Pierce County.This legislation comes as follow-up to a proviso sponsored by Councilmember Jim McCune and adopted by the Council in the ...

Bridal Showcase offers one-stop shop for wedding planning

Brides-to-be can reduce the overwhelming task of wedding planning at the fifth annual Bridal Showcase on Sunday, March 4 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Environmental Services Building, located at 9850 64th St. W. in University Place.The Bridal Showcase wil...

County observes New Year's Day

Pierce County administrative offices will be closed Tuesday, Jan. 1 in observance of New Year's Day. Normal business hours will resume on Wednesday, Jan. 2. Emergency services will continue to operate without interruption.

County observes President's Day

Pierce County administrative offices will be closed Monday, Feb. 19, in observance of President's Day. Normal business hours will resume on Tuesday, Feb. 20. Emergency services will operate without interruption.

Pierce County Council outlines 2018 policy priorities

Last week, the Pierce County Council reinforced its 2018 priorities to include a continued focus on economic development, behavioral health/homelessness, public safety, and property abatement/public nuisances.“As we discussed our priorities for ...

Video News: Point-in-Time Count, Opioid Summit, property taxes, and more

Pierce County News for the week of Feb. 8-22, 2018

• Headlines: Point Ruston agreement, Trueblood funding, Horizons breakfast
• Follow a team during the 2018 Point-in-Time Homeless Count
• Overnight counting, mobile app to impact Homeless Count statistics
• County le...

Urban Search & Rescue team to be available for state and local deployment

Pierce County Executive Bruce Dammeier and The Adjutant General Bret Daugherty will sign an interagency agreement between Pierce County and Washington State Emergency Management at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, Feb.13.The agreement will enable Washington State Task...

New traffic signal system to be activated Feb. 6 at 78th Avenue East and 184th Street East

A new traffic signal system will be activated on Feb. 6 at the intersection of 78th Avenue East and 184th Street East to improve intersection operations.

The intersection was widened to add left turn lanes for 78th Avenue East.

Crews previously added street...

Pierce County’s new portal improves access to public records

It just got easier to access Pierce County public records.Thanks to a newly launched public records request portal, people will have easier access to records requested under the Public Records Act.Reflecting the County’s commitment to greater tr...

The fight against opioids takes center stage on Friday in Pierce County

Leaders from the fields of health care, judicial, law enforcement, education and substance abuse, will gather with elected officials at the University of Washington, Tacoma on Friday, Feb. 2 to provide input and feedback on strategies that will address th...

New traffic signal system to be activated Jan. 31 at Waller Road East and 128th Street East

A new traffic signal system will be activated on Jan. 31 at the intersection of Waller Road East and 128th Street East to improve intersection operations.The intersection has been widened to accommodate left turn lanes in all four directions. Currently, t...

Video News: Free tax help, McCartney memorial, economic forecast, and more

Pierce County News for Jan. 25-Feb. 8, 2018

• Headlines: Free tax help, dog flu, February Special Election
• Pierce County remembers Deputy Daniel McCartney
• It’s #DemoDay for Sumner’s Red Apple Market
• Economic forecast for S...

Workshop shows Parkinson’s patients how to live life fully

Pierce County’s Aging and Disability Resource Center has teamed up with the Davis Phinney Foundation for Parkinson’s to offer three free community workshops to help people learn more about Parkinson’s and the resources available to them.“Living and Thrivi...

Chambers Creek Regional Park serves up dinner and musical comedy, Feb. 23

Join Events on The Edge, the masterminds behind the Murder Mystery Shows, for a special night of interactive comedy theater at its finest.On Friday, Feb. 23, meet the Biscotti Family of Bayonne, New Jersey, for a hilarious evening of fun, served up family...

Community input sought on Purdy Creek project

Pierce County residents that live near Purdy Lane Northwest and 144th Street Northwest are invited to a meeting Thursday, Jan. 25 on a proposed project to improve Purdy Creek’s fish passage, water quality and fish habitat.The meeting will be hel...

Pilot change to come for Pierce County ballots

Ballots for the upcoming February and April Special Elections will include a stub that voters are encouraged to remove before casting their votes. The blue perforated stub is located on top of the voter’s ballot and includes an, “I Voted,” graphic.This ch...

Looking for a rewarding career in law enforcement? Join our team

Now hiring! The Pierce County Sheriff’s Department is hosting a hiring workshop Wednesday, Jan. 24 from 6 to 9:30 p.m. at the Pierce County Jail, 701 Nollmeyer Lane in Tacoma.

If you’re interested in becoming a Pierce County Sheriff&...

County observes Martin Luther King Jr. Day

Pierce County administrative offices will be closed Monday, Jan. 15, in observance of Martin Luther King, Jr. Normal business hours will resume on Tuesday, Jan. 16. Emergency services will operate without interruption.

Video News: Pierce County mourns fallen deputy, community shows support, and more

Pierce County News for the week of Jan. 11-25, 2018

• Pierce County Sheriff’s Department mourns fallen Deputy Daniel McCartney
• Community shows support in procession for Deputy McCartney
• Volunteers needed for Pierce County’s Point in Time homeless count Jan. 26...

Executive seeks applicants for Ethics Commission vacancy

The Pierce County Executive’s Office is accepting applications to fill one Ethics Commission position. The citizen commission is responsible for promoting and upholding ethical conduct in Pierce County government.Applicants must be registered to...

Council statement on fallen Deputy Daniel A. McCartney

The Pierce County Council is deeply saddened to learn of the senseless death of Deputy Daniel A. McCartney. There are no words that can adequately express our gratitude for his service to Pierce County, or our sorrow for his loss.Deputy McCartney lost his...

Executive statement on fallen Deputy Daniel A. McCartney

Last night, just after 11:30 p.m. Deputy Daniel A. McCartney lost his life responding to a home invasion call. Deputy McCartney died confronting evil; protecting those who could not protect themselves. We are all praying for the family, friends and fellow...

Video News: Meet award-winning County employees

Pierce County News for the week of  Jan. 4, 2018

I am Pierce County: Meet award-winning employees

• Innovative motor boat measures storm water ponds
• Jail maintenance crew brings clarity with LED
• Foreclosure Avoidance Team helps people stay in their hom...

Pierce County launches new online portal to track code enforcement complaints

Pierce County has launched a new online portal to accept, process and resolve complaints about code enforcement violations.

The new portal, available at piercecountywa.org/codeenforcement, allows customers to submit complaints online. Customers can also us...

Volunteers needed to help identify people experiencing homelessness

Pierce County is looking for volunteers for the 2018 Point-In-Time Count on Friday, January 26th, 2018!

Volunteers will be stationed at meal sites, day shelters, events such as Project Homeless Connect, and DSHS offices throughout Pierce County. and will c...

Free workshop on what you need to know about reverse mortgages

Few financial products generate as much debate and confusion as reverse mortgages. It is not a resolution for immediate financial difficulties. But for seniors who want to stay in their home for the long term, it may be a decision worth considering. Like ...

Master Plan efforts continue for Thun Field

Pierce County will hold a Master Plan Advisory Committee (MPAC) meeting for Pierce County Airport-Thun Field on Monday, Jan. 8, 2018 to address the airport’s 20-year facility development needs.The MPAC will meet from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. on Jan. 8 ...

Video News: Holidays in Pierce County

Pierce County News for the week of Dec. 21, 2017

• Past, present & future of Fantasy Lights at Spanaway Park
• Meet the Farmer: Christmas tree farm sees many trends over 30 years
• Crystal Mountain boasts gondola & biggest ski resort in Washington
• Hockey fo...

Treecycle your Christmas tree

When the holidays are over, don’t forget to treecycle your fresh cut Christmas tree.Pierce County residents who subscribe to yard waste collection service can place their unflocked tree in their container. Flocked trees cannot be recycled and must be disp...

Pierce County Council approves address changes on Key Peninsula, Fox Island and Anderson Island

Pierce County Council approves address changes on Key Peninsula, Fox Island and Anderson IslandThe Pierce County Council on Dec. 12 approved changes to addresses on Key Peninsula, Fox Island and Anderson Island that will bring the addresses into complianc...

Parks and Recreation’s winter, spring activity guide now available

Embrace winter now and look forward to what spring has to offer with Parks & Recreation’s winter/spring activity guide.Check out Parks & Recreation’s broad and diverse selection of programs and events for all abilities and ages...

Video News: Behavioral health in jail, Christmas tree farming, wishcycling, and more

Pierce County News for the week of Dec. 7, 2017

Pierce County gets $2 million grant for behavioral health services in jail

Chambers Bay Four-Ball Championship delayed two years to 2021

University Place swears in four returning councilmembers

Meet the Farmer: ...

Drainage District candidate filing period to begin Dec. 11

The candidate filing period for all Pierce County Drainage Districts is Monday, Dec. 11, 2017 through Wednesday, Dec. 13, 2017.Declarations of candidacy are accepted at the Pierce County Election Center (2501 S. 35th St. Suite C, Tacoma) on Dec. 11-13, 20...

U.S. District Court awards $1.9 million in grant funding to Pierce County

Pierce County has been awarded $1.9 million in grant funding to address the challenges faced by individuals with behavioral health conditions in Pierce County’s criminal justice system.The 18-month grant will begin in March 2018 and funds mental...

Video News: Behavioral health, Adoption Day, Career Day, and more

Pierce County News for the week of Nov. 30 2017

Pierce County Council dedicates $2.5M to Behavioral Health in 2018

Adoption Day gives 11 children forever homes in Pierce County

Career Day wows students with exhibits and demand for labor jobs

I-5 nort...

County observes Thanksgiving holiday

Pierce County administrative offices will be closed Thursday, Nov. 23 and Friday, Nov. 24, in observance of the Thanksgiving holiday. Normal business hours will resume on Monday, Nov. 27. Emergency services will operate without interruption.

County Council approves 2018 budget

The Pierce County Council last night voted unanimously to adopt the County’s 2018 operating and capital budgets. The new budgets take effect Jan. 1, 2018, pending the County Executive’s signature.“I’m pleased to joi...

Proposal on the Tacoma Tideflats Subarea Planning Process moved to Dec. 5

Proposal No. R2017-131 regarding the Tacoma Tideflats Subarea Planning Process has been rescheduled for the Dec. 5, 2017 council meeting at 3 p.m. 

View and comment on the proposal here.

County to hear final recommendations for Agricultural Resource Land Study

The Pierce County Council Community Development and Performance Audit Committees in a joint meeting will receive a presentation on outcomes and recommendations from the Agricultural Resource Land (ARL) Study that was commissioned by the council.

Barney...Read on...

District Court early closure, Sept. 16

Pierce County District Court will close at noon Friday, Sept. 16 for employee training. The court will reopen Monday, Sept. 19.

This closure applies to courtrooms and public service windows of all District Court divisions, including Probation.

Distr...Read on...

County observes Labor Day, Sept. 5

Pierce County administrative offices will be closed Monday, Sept. 5, in observance of Labor Day. Normal business hours will resume on Tuesday, Sept. 6.

Emergency services will operate without interruption.

Video News: Squatters get the boot, hiring election workers, pollinating Parkland Prairie, and more

Pierce County News for the week of Sept. 1, 2016

• Pierce County Responds gives squatters the boot in Spanaway
• Police officers remind drivers about school zone tickets
• County Auditor’s office hiring temporary workers for General Election
• Lots of schedule cha...

Rev up for fun at Touch-A-Truck event, Sept. 10.

Pierce County Parks and Recreation will host its seventh annual Touch-A-Truck event Saturday, Sept. 10, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Sprinker Recreation Center, 14824 C St. S. in Tacoma.

This free community event allows the public to explore a variety of...Read on...

South Hill panel focuses on extended care for loved ones

Long-term care is commonly associated with age, however younger adults are finding themselves in need of services following accidents, unexpected illnesses or chronic conditions. One-third of residents in long-term care facilities are under age 65 and man...Read on...

Section of 108th Street East to be resurfaced Sept. 6-16

108th Street East will be resurfaced between Ainsworth Avenue South and Pacific Avenue South from Sept. 6-16.

The road will remain open, although it will be reduced to one lane with alternating traffic. Motorists should expect 15-minute delays from 7 a...Read on...

Pierce County Ferry offers two-boat service during Labor Day weekend

The Pierce County Ferry will offer additional runs during the Labor Day weekend to accommodate holiday travelers.

Pierce County will operate both boats from noon to 6:40 p.m. on Sept. 2, 4 and 5. In addition to normally scheduled runs, the system’s se...Read on...

Video News: Fireworks, Chambers Bay Resort, Lady Washington, and more

Pierce County News for the week of Thursday, Aug. 25, 2016

• County Council considers tougher restrictions for fireworks
• Two proposals under consideration for a Chambers Bay Resort
• Tacoma’s Amtrak station moves to Freighthouse Square
• County ferry riders using...

Food trucks to park themselves at Sprinker Recreation Center, Aug. 27

Pierce County Parks and Recreation is thrilled to bring you more than 29 delicious reasons to sample and explore the 2nd Annual Mobile Food Fest at Sprinker Recreation Center, 14824 C St. S. in Spanaway.

The admission-free event takes place Saturday, A...Read on...

Chambers Bay resort proposals unveiled; Public invited to learn more at Sept. 8 open house

At today’s study session Pierce County Councilmembers had their first look at the two development proposals vying for the opportunity to build a $45 million resort at Chambers Bay in University Place, Wash.

Pierce County’s vision for the resort is one ...Read on...

Work to improve sidewalks, pedestrian visibility on Park Avenue South begins Aug. 29

Work to improve sidewalks and pedestrian visibility along Park Avenue South between 125th Street South and Garfield Street South will begin Aug. 29. The work is expected to be complete in late November.

The project will include new six-foot sidewalks a...Read on...

Annual Kite Festival takes flight Aug. 28

A spectacularly colorful day of all things kites will take place at Pierce County Parks & Recreation’s annual Kite Festival on Sunday, Aug. 28 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Central Meadow located at Chambers Creek Regional Park, 6320 Grandview Dr. in Univ...Read on...

Heat advisory notice and options

Due to the high temperatures expected this weekend, the National Weather Service (NWS) has issued an excessive heat warning for parts of the Puget Sound. Temperatures are expected to be in the upper 80s to lower 90s Thursday through Saturday, Aug. 18-20. ...Read on...

Video News: Tourism Special

Pierce County News for the week of Aug. 18, 2016

The best places and things to see and do in our County!

• Chambers Creek Regional Park
• Paradise at Mt. Rainier
• Northwest Trek ziplines
• Sumner Link Trail
• Brown’s Point Lighthouse Keepers
• Shark dives at P...

Section of Gem Heights Drive East to be resurfaced Aug. 22-26

Gem Heights Drive East will be resurfaced between Silver Creek Avenue East and Meridian Avenue East from Aug. 22-26.

The road will remain open, although it will be reduced to one lane with alternating traffic. Motorists should expect 15-minute delays f...Read on...

Dry weather prompts county-wide burn ban

Pierce County Fire Marshal Warner Webb has announced a county-wide outdoor burn ban, effective 8 a.m., Thursday, Aug. 18, until further notice. Dry weather and forecasts calling for continued dry heat prompted the limited ban, issued jointly with the Pier...Read on...

Video News: SS911 site chosen, scuba with Sheriff dive team, and more

Pierce County News for the week of Aug. 11, 2016

• County site chosen for new South Sound 911 complex
• Online survey gives people a voice on Chambers Creek Master Plan
• Pierce County waste sort finds lots of recyclables headed to landfill
• County Council tries ...

Video News: Homeless camps, Fox Island Bridge, Sprinker's 40th, and more

Pierce County News for the week of Aug. 4, 2016

• County evacuates, cleans up homeless camps along River Road near Puyallup
• Fox Island Bridge to need major repairs or replacement
• Family Justice Center raises thousands of dollars with employee BBQ
• Demand grows ...

UPDATED: Auditor seeks to appoint committee members for voters’ pamphlet

Editor’s Note: Updates committee members needed.

The Pierce County Auditor’s Office is opening a special appointment period to recruit individuals to write “For” and “Against” committee statements for the Nov. 8, 2016, General Election Local Voters’ Pa...Read on...

Auditor seeks to appoint committee members for voters’ pamphlet

The Pierce County Auditor’s Office is opening a special appointment period to recruit individuals to write “For” and “Against” committee statements for the Nov. 8, 2016, General Election Local Voters’ Pamphlet in the following districts:

Committee memb...Read on...

Public input sought on Chambers Creek Regional Park Master Site Plan update

Pierce County Parks and Recreation is looking for public input on the 2017 update to the Chambers Creek Regional Park Master Site Plan.

The master plan is used to establish the vision for the park and to guide future development. Park users, citizens ...Read on...

August 2 Primary Election at a glance

The Pierce County Auditor's Office has provided an overview of the August 2 Primary Election.

Visit the Auditor's website for ballot drop box and voting center locations.Read on...

Sprinker Recreation kicks off 40th anniversary with activities July 30

This year marks the 40th anniversary of Sprinker Recreation Center, Pierce County’s premier recreational facility. To celebrate, Parks and Recreation has planned activities for the whole family to enjoy from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, July 30.

The...Read on...

New ferry ticketing system goes live July 26

Pierce County Ferry riders will purchase their ferry tickets through a new ticketing system starting July 26.

Riders will be able to buy their tickets online at www.piercecountywa.org/ferry, at the Steilacoom Terminal and via a new smartphone app.

...Read on...

198th Avenue East extension opens new route to ease traffic

[On behalf of Pierce County, The City of Bonney Lake and Newland Communities]

Today officials from Pierce County, The City of Bonney Lake and Newland Communities, developer of the Tehaleh community, celebrated the completion of a $7.7 million extensio...Read on...

Section of Foothills Trail to close during levee maintenance

Pierce County crews will make repairs to the Carbon River levee near the Foothills Trail between Voight’s Creek and 197th Avenue East starting the week of July 25.

That section of the Foothills Trail will be closed for about a week. The trail may re-op...Read on...

Chambers Bay to host the U.S. Amateur Four-Ball in 2019

Shared by the Pierce County Department of Communications:

Chambers Bay, in University Place, Wash., has been selected by the USGA as the site of the 2019 U.S. Amateur Four-Ball Championship. The dates of the championship are May 25-29.

The Home Cour...Read on...

Open house on options to replace or rehabilitate the Fox Island Bridge planned for Aug. 2

The community is invited to an Aug. 2 open house to learn about potential options to rehabilitate or replace the Fox Island Bridge.

The Preliminary Type, Size and Location Study began in winter 2015. Pierce County and HDR Engineering, the consultant h...Read on...

Pierce County Airport-Thun Field’s runway to be closed at night for electrical work

Pierce County Airport-Thun Field’s runway will be closed Monday to Thursday at night from Aug. 1 to Sept. 9 while crews install new wiring and replace runway edge light lamps. The runway will be closed from 10:30 p.m. to 9 a.m.

The work will take pla...Read on...

New version of the Pierce County Bike Map released

Bicyclists can now pick up the latest version of the Pierce County Bike Map at public libraries and most city halls and bike shops around the county.

The free map shows paved trails open to non-motorized traffic, bike lanes that are striped and signed...Read on...

Video News: Sheriff on violence, apartments save farmland, Bridge to the Beach extension, and more

Pierce County News for the week of July 14, 2016

• A discussion with Pierce County Sheriff Pastor about racial tensions and violence in policing
• Stadium Apartments construction in Tacoma to help preserve farmland in Orting
• County to extend pier, seek grant t...

Pierce County Medical Examiner seeks friends and families to reclaim remains of deceased

The friends and family members of 37 individuals who died in Pierce County have one last opportunity to reclaim their remains. The list of individuals can be found below and at the Medical Examiner's website.

The Pierce County Medical Examiner plans t...Read on...

Video News: Rules take effect for marijuana, register for August Primary, and more

Pierce County News for the week of July 7, 2016

• Executive veto paves way for legal marijuana businesses, Council creates drug enforcement fund
• It’s not too late to register for the August Primary election
• Puget Sound Fresh App wins international award
• Take...

Pioneer Way entrance to Swan Creek Park closed weekdays July 11-16

The Swan Creek Park entrance near Pioneer Way and Waller Road on the southeast side of Swan Creek will be closed weekdays July 11-16 while crews remove gravel from a sediment pond.

The Pioneer Way entrance and all park property on the southeast side of...Read on...

“Sounds at Sunset” concert series at Meridian Habitat Park

Sounds of live music will fill the air at Meridian Habitat Park in Puyallup every Friday in July from 7 to 8:30 p.m.

The free summer concerts will feature a variety of local and regional musical styles that appeal to music lovers of all ages and taste...Read on...

Video News: Opioid epidemic, Sounder projects, leopard meatball, and more

Pierce County News for the week of June 30, 2016

• Police chiefs countywide hold community conversation about opioids
• South Sound 911 has new non-emergency number for East Pierce County
• Sound Transit Sounder projects underway in Sumner, Tacoma, Lakewood
• Fife...

A Statement from Pierce County Council Chair Doug Richardson

“I am in receipt of Pierce County Executive Pat McCarthy’s veto of Council Ordinance 2016-35s which requested the Planning Commission to conduct a public hearing considering amendments to prohibit the production, processing, and retail sale of marijuana i...Read on...

Pierce County Executive vetoes marijuana ordinance

Pierce County Executive Pat McCarthy today vetoed a County ordinance that requested the Planning Commission to consider amendments to the County Code related to marijuana production, processing and retail sale.

The veto sends the ordinance back to the...Read on...

Tips for staying safe on 4th of July

With the 4th of July quickly approaching we want to make sure the residents of Pierce County are celebrating safely! The Pierce County Fire Marshal has put together useful information to help guide residents.

Be Prepared… before you light fireworks

• O...

Pilot of two-boat service on the Pierce County Ferry during summer weekends starts July 1

The Pierce County Ferry will offer additional weekend runs in July and August to minimize delays during the busy summer season as part of a pilot program in 2016.

Pierce County will operate both boats from noon to 8 p.m. on Fridays and Sundays. In addi...Read on...

Fourth of July weekend brings schedule changes, extreme tide warning for Pierce County Ferry

Pierce County Ferry riders should be aware of several items during the Fourth of July weekend.

Schedule changesDuring the Fourth of July weekend, a run departing Steilacoom at 10 p.m. on July 3 and 4 will be offered. The run departing Steilacoom at 4...Read on...

Video News: Behavioral Health Unit targets mental illness, new home values, tour Manuscript Museum

Pierce County News for the week of June 24, 2016

• District Court’s Behavioral Health Unit brings services, not jail, to mentally ill
• 4th of July brings busiest call volume of year to South Sound 911
• One website has 4th of July fireworks rules for all of Pier...

Puget Sound Fresh app wins international award for design excellence

The Puget Sound Fresh App is the perfect way for consumers to learn about fresh summer produce or find local farmer markets. Now the popular app has won a 2016 Apex Award for design and overall communications excellence.

APEX 2016 is an international c...Read on...

Video News: Sheriff calls for more deputies, ferry adds runs, vigil for Orlando, and more

Pierce County News for the week of June 16, 2016

• Sheriff study spurs proposal for more deputies in unincorporated Pierce County
• Tacoma holds vigil for victims of Orlando shooting
• Ferry to Anderson Island to get more sailings, 2nd summer boat, new ticket sys...

Junk In Your Trunk community garage sale returns

Imagine treasure hunting at scores of garage sales without driving all day. Pierce County Parks and Recreation kicks off its seventh season by hosting four Junk in Your Trunk community garage sales on:

• Saturday, June 25
  
• Saturday, July 16
• Sa...

Video News: Cascadia Rising, Boots2Work, Foothills Trail, and more

Pierce County News for the week of June 9, 2016

• Cascadia Rising exercise tests 30 local agencies
• County Council gives budget oversight responsibilities to monthly committee
• Boots2Work military career fair has ready-to-hire jobs
• Know teen workers’ rights be...

Video News: Tourism Special

Pierce County News for the week of June 2, 2016

• Chambers Creek Regional Park
• Ft. Lewis History Museum
• Gig Harbor maritime & summer trolley
• Paradise at Mt. Rainier
• Northwest Trek ziplines
• Sumner Link Trail
• Brown’s Point Lighthouse Keepers
• Shark dives at...

Grandparenting has a new look

Children today face many extraordinary challenges and opportunities. That’s even more true for grandparents.Kids face so many issues in their lives and they often bring those challenges to home and family.

“Conversations on Grandparenting” is an inform...Read on...

Flights on the vintage Douglas DC-3 offered during Gig Harbor Wings & Wheels July 3

Aviation enthusiasts can sign up now for an unforgettable flight aboard the vintage Douglas DC-3 during Gig Harbor Wings & Wheels on July 3 at the Tacoma Narrows Airport.

The 1-hour experience includes a tour of the Historic Flight Foundation’s Dou...Read on...

Groundbreaking ceremony for the Foothills National Recreational Trail

A groundbreaking ceremony for additional trail improvements to the Buckley to South Prairie section of the Foothills National Recreation Trail will take place on June 7, 2016, from noon to 1:30 p.m. at the Fitzer Mill Site, along Highway 165.

This uni...Read on...

Video News: Volcano tracking, Chambers Creek planning, Meet the Farmer berries, and more

Pierce County News for the week of May 26, 2016

• Track your volcano: USGS and DEM give thumbs up to these social media sites
• Small town mayors give updates at County Council meeting in Wilkeson
• Small turnout in Presidential Primary a test run for General
• Pi...

County observes Memorial Day

Pierce County administrative offices will be closed Monday, May 30, in observance of Memorial Day. Normal business hours will resume on Tuesday, May 31.

Emergency services will operate without interruption.

Chuck Buzzard named Washington’s GIS Person of the Year!

Pierce County’s Chuck Buzzard is a groundbreaking technologist, innovative leader, and partner with many state and local agencies. Chuck has now been named “GIS Person of the Year” for his expertise and countless hours of volunteering.

The Washington S...Read on...

Gig Harbor Wings & Wheels back July 3, 2016 with aircraft, cars, motorcycles

Gig Harbor Wings & Wheels is back for its sixth year with activities for aviation, car and motorcycle enthusiasts alike.

The event runs from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. July 3 at the Tacoma Narrows Airport, located at 1202 26th Ave. NW in Gig Harbor.

Hi...Read on...

Register now for 26th annual Tour de Pierce bike ride June 26

Cyclists from all over the Puget Sound will take part in the 26th annual Tour de Pierce on Sunday, June 26. The bike ride to promote fitness, fun, and safety, includes 30- and 50-mile marked routes, plus a 12-mile route designed for families or for those ...Read on...

Memorial Day weekend brings holiday schedule, extreme tide warning for Pierce County Ferry

The Pierce County Ferry will operate on its holiday schedule on Memorial Day, May 30.

The ferry will operate a one-boat service, instead of a two-boat service that is typically offered on holiday weekends. The M/V Steilacoom II will handle the holiday...Read on...

Road project along Crystal Mountain Boulevard East resumes May 23

Work on a road project along Crystal Mountain Boulevard East from State Route 410 to the Crystal Mountain Resort will resume May 23.

Utility crews will be onsite for about two weeks starting May 23 to relocate utility lines located near Mile Marker 6 ...Read on...

Traffic revisions coming to 62nd Ave. E. and 48th St. E. SW of River Road May 18

Pierce County will permanently close 62nd Avenue East at 52nd Street East on May 18, which will create a dead end on 62nd Avenue East.

In addition, the intersection of 62nd Avenue East and 48th Street East will become an all-way stop.

“These change...Read on...

Judge Tollefson announces retirement from Superior Court

Judge Brian Tollefson, Pierce County Superior Court’s most senior judge has announced his retirement effective May 31, 2016.

Judge Tollefson was elected to Superior Court in 1988 and has served continuously in that position without opposition for over...Read on...

Businesses can learn first-hand about cyber-related crimes

Businesses are invited to hear cyber security experts discuss global trends, regional impacts, and how to protect your business from cybercrime, at a half-day program on Thursday, May 26 in Lakewood.

The forum covers topics such as shifts in the cyber ...Read on...

Video News: Homeless report, horse castration clinic, baby leopard cubs, and more

Pierce County News for the week of May 5, 2016

• Report shows 37% increase in Pierce County’s homeless population
• Health Department warns about lead in soil and paint
• Fife Mayor talks budget tool, design work for new I-5 interchange
• Walk A Mile In Her Shoes ...

Pierce County Superior Court honors jurors May 16-20

Pierce County Superior Court is sponsoring Juror Appreciation Week from May 16-20 to recognize the important service that residents provide on jury duty and to highlight and honor and importance of that service.

Last year, 19,881 citizens served on a j...Read on...

Puget Sound Starts Here Month challenges residents to adopt Sound-healthy behaviors

Pierce County is teaming up with hundreds of organizations across Puget Sound to challenge residents to commit to at least one Sound-healthy action during May’s Puget Sound Starts Here Month.

“Pierce County is characterized by its beautiful views and ...Read on...

Passing of Robin McKinney

Robin McKinney, facilities services coordinator for Facilities Management, passed away on April 27, at age 54 after her long battle with cancer.

Robin is a Lincoln High School graduate. Robin graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy and served 12 years i...Read on...

Crystal Judson Family Justice Center marks 10th anniversary

The Crystal Judson Family Justice Center was established ten years ago following Crystal's murder at the hands of her husband. The community came together to grieve and heal, determined to raise awareness of domestic violence in our community and create ...Read on...

Video News: The Trails of Pierce County

Pierce County News for the week of April 28, 2016

• Two new extensions of Foothills Trail coming in 2016-17
• Uncover history along DuPont’s Sequalitchew Creek Trail
• Chambers Creek Regional Park boasts 5k trail and beach access
• Cushman Trail in Gig Harbor offe...

Social Security benefits help people with a ticket to work

Individuals with disabilities encounter numerous barriers to employment. Those frustrating walls hinder gainful employment and reduce self-sufficiency. But Social Security provides many effective work incentives that can be combined with other state resou...Read on...

Unsheltered homelessness up 37 percent in Pierce County

On Jan. 29, 2016, nearly 2,000 people in Pierce County were homeless.

Pierce County has seen a dramatic rise in homelessness over the last 12 months. Based on the 2016 Point in Time homelessness report released today, the number of people and families ...Read on...

Ansara named Director of Community Connections for Pierce County

Following a lengthy and thorough recruitment process, Peter Ansara has been named Director of Community Connections for Pierce County. He begins his new role on May 2, 2016.

“Peter is passionate about serving Pierce County and the important work of Com...Read on...

Films on aging highlight Older Americans Month

Movies can be our window on the world and windows into our own lives. In observance of Older Americans Month, the Pierce County Library system and Pierce County Aging & Disability Resources are showing three remarkable films that explore the significa...Read on...

Apply for a landmarks preservation grant by June 10

The Pierce County Landmarks and Historic Preservation Commission is pleased to announce the 2017 Preservation Grant Program, which assists in funding preservation efforts in Pierce County.

Grant requests can be made for historic preservation or histor...Read on...

Gaddis named new Pierce County Court Administrator

Pierce County Superior Court today announced Chris Gaddis as its newest Court Administrator. He will begin his new role on May 2, 2016.

Gaddis has had a 23-year career in law enforcement and has been the Chief of Police for the City of Normandy Park si...Read on...

Video News: County considers ferry schedule change, sustainability saves money, and more

Pierce County News for the week of April 21, 2016

• Van Lierop Farm in Puyallup begins a new legacy
• Pierce County teen becomes 4-millionth voter to register in Washington
• County considers ferry schedule changes for Anderson and Ketron Islands
• U.P. rhododendro...

Three final decisions become the most important

Postponing the most important decisions can be disastrous. It can tear families apart and destroy what took a lifetime to establish. Three final decisions are the most important and come into play at the most stressful time of life – when death occurs.
...Read on...

Video News: Recruiting CASA's, Jury Duty scam, DuPont stay & play, and more

Pierce County News for the week of April 14, 2016

• Pinwheels for Prevention show need for 750 CASA volunteers
• Find out what a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) does
• Phone scam targets people who ‘missed’ jury duty
• Ballots arriving soon for May’s Presid...

Workshop offers keys to success with vision loss

Vision loss happens more often that we may care to admit. Whether by disease, age, accident or trauma, people can have their vision impacted. But it doesn’t have to mean the loss of independence or quality of life. By tapping into community supports and r...Read on...

New traffic signal system to be activated at 52nd Street East and 66th Avenue East April 12

A new traffic signal system will be activated at the intersection of 52nd Street East and 66th Avenue East near Puyallup on April 12 to improve intersection operations.

Currently, there is a stop sign on 52nd Street East where it intersects with 66th A...Read on...

Jury duty scams on the rise

Jury coordinators in Pierce County have received several reports this week of scammers working the phones to trick residents into believing they owe a fine for missing jury duty.

Here’s what to look out for:

An unsuspecting person receives a call ...Read on...

Seattle Seahawks Jimmy Graham’s mother and Pierce County’s CASA team up to help foster kids

Pierce County Juvenile Court’s CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate) Program will be holding a free event at LeMay - America's Car Museum, on April 28 at 5:30 p.m. to celebrate the amazing work of their 230 volunteers, to connect with new volunteers, an...Read on...

Video News: Groundwater flooding, April election, Kid's Trek, Tacoma Rainiers, and more

Pierce County News for the week of April 7, 2016

• County tracks seasonal groundwater flooding and maps locations
• Unincorporated Pierce County has big role in April Special Election
• County begins public meetings on proposed Health & Community Building
• Fi...

Pinwheels strive to raise awareness, prevention of child abuse and neglect during April

Silver and blue pinwheels have taken over the front lawn of Pierce County Juvenile Court, and are springing up around Tacoma and Pierce County to help bring awareness to National Child Abuse Prevention Awareness Month.

For the third year Pierce County ...Read on...

Pierce County ferry peak season fare rates go into effect May 1

Peak season fare rates start May 1 for Pierce County Ferry passengers.

Passengers driving vehicles 21 feet in length or less will see their fares increase from the non-peak season rate of $18.35 to the peak season rate of $23.85, while passengers drivi...Read on...

Meetings to discuss proposed co-located SS911, Health Department and Community Connections building

Want to learn more about possible facility solutions that Pierce County is exploring? Residents can attend community meetings during April to hear about a concept under consideration that may provide improved facilities for some County employees, Tacoma-P...Read on...

Video News: Undercover with Property Crimes Unit, Meet the Farmer: Crowd Cow

Pierce County News for the week of March 31, 2016

• Go undercover with the Pierce County Sheriff’s Property Crimes Unit
• See how the County fared during wet flood season, new berm in Pacific
• New stoplight coming to Parkland at 112th & A Street
• Tacoma host...

Executive seeks applicants for Ethics Commission vacancies

The Pierce County Executive’s Office is accepting applications to fill two Ethics Commission positions. The citizen commission is responsible for promoting and upholding ethical conduct in Pierce County government.

Applicants must be registered to vote...Read on...

New traffic signal system to be activated at 78th Avenue East and 192nd Street East March 31

A new traffic signal system will be activated at the intersection of 78th Avenue East and 192nd Street East near Graham on March 31 to improve intersection operations.

Currently, there are stop signs on 192nd Street East where it intersects with 78th A...Read on...

County offers resources for early stage memory loss

Individuals and families dealing with memory loss or facing a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s are typically filled with anxiety, fear and confusion. It’s a time when the sky can seem to be falling in. But there is hope, there are resources and there are people w...Read on...

Work at 112th Street East and A Street South intersection starts March 28

Work to relieve traffic congestion at the 112th Street East and A Street South intersection will start March 28. The work is expected to be complete by the end of July or early August.

The intersection will be widened to accommodate a new traffic signa...Read on...

Video News: Presidential race, Puyallup homeless, Sumner traffic, and more

Pierce County News for the week of March 24, 2016

• Presidential race reaches Tacoma ahead of democratic caucus
• Puyallup cracks down on homeless issues with moratorium, new rules
• Puyallup mayor talks homeless, Shaw Road work, Daffodil Parade
• Sumner asks driv...

Learn about extended care resources for a loved one

Long term care is commonly associated with age. But increasingly younger adults find themselves in need of services following accidents, unexpected illnesses or chronic conditions. One third of residents in long term care facilities are under 65 years. A...Read on...

Pierce County Auditor hosts Passport Week

In response to a surge in demand for passports, the Pierce County Auditor’s Office, located at 2401 S. 35th St., Room 200, in Tacoma will be staying open an extra hour the week of April 4-8, 2016. Doors will be open from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Why Apr...Read on...

Video News: Proposed Health & Community building, Enhanced Driver's License deadline, and more

Pierce County News for the week of March 17, 2016

• County proposes Health & Community Building in Lincoln District
• Smoke-Free Housing Program reaches out to landlords
• Deadline nears for Enhanced Drivers Licenses for JBLM
• South Sound named ‘Great America...

It’s time for Parks & Recreation's Annual Family Bingo Night

Spring is around the corner and that means the sounds of family fun will be heard from miles around Chambers Creek Regional Park for Parks & Recreation’s Annual Family Bingo Night on Friday, April 1, from 6:30 to 9 p.m.

Doors open at 6 p.m. Event ...Read on...

Annual county roadside herbicide applications start March 28

Pierce County roadsides will get their annual makeover this spring and summer.

An initial application of herbicides to combat weeds along road shoulders will start Monday, March 28, and continue through June. Targeted noxious weeds and brush control a...Read on...

Video News: Vaughn Bay clean up, Charter Commission seeks ideas, meet an egg farmer, and more

Pierce County News for the week of March 10, 2016

• Vaughn Bay gets cleaned up for shellfish
• What to do about a failing septic system
• Pierce County's owner maintain program is back
• Charter Review Commission asks for your ideas
• A local egg farmer gears up for...

Social Security Disability focus on March 23

Odds are you won’t need it. Odds are if you do need it, Social Security Disability is a lifesaver. Nearly one out of every six working-age Americans – 29.5 million people – has a disability, making them much more likely to experience economic hardship th...Read on...

Video News: Stopping repeat offenders, new Law Library hours, EDB annual meeting, and more

Pierce County News for the week of March 3, 2016

• Prosecutor uses data to target repeat offenders
• Pierce County Law Library helps people with legal questions
• Pierce County Library survey looks at patrons’ lifestyles
• New road in Bonney Lake to open soon near...

Pierce County Ferry service expected to resume in early evening

Pierce County Ferry service is expected to resume in the early evening Feb. 29 once the M/V Christine Anderson is cleared to take over the remaining runs of the day.

Ferry service has been down since 5:45 a.m. Feb. 29 after the system’s other ferry, th...Read on...

Pierce County Ferry out of service until further notice

The Pierce County Ferry is expected to be out of service most of Feb. 29 following electrical issues on the M/V Steilacoom II.

The ferry lost steering controls on one engine as it departed Steilacoom at 5:45 a.m. for the first run of the day. The ferry...Read on...

Pierce County Law Library to close on Sundays

The Pierce County Law Library will be closed on Sundays, effective March 6. The Library’s Board of Trustees approved this closure in response to funding restrictions that no longer support Sunday hours.

Hours on Monday will remain 8:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.,...Read on...

Auditor seeks to appoint committee members for voters’ pamphlet

The Pierce County Auditor’s Office is opening a special appointment period to recruit individuals to write committee statements for the April 26, 2016, Special Election Local Voters’ Pamphlet in the following districts:

Committee members needed

• Agains...

Video News: Ferry study results, Chambers Creek master plan, cars of Downton Abbey, and more

Pierce County News for the week of Feb. 25, 2016

• County ferry study shows Anderson Island demographics and needs are changing
• Updating Chambers Creek Properties master plan could bring new amenities
• Find out which bills the County is watching in the Legisla...

Workshop explains Social Security retirement changes in 2016

Social Security continues to be a key part of how Americans ensure their financial security after they retire. Congress made some substantial changes to the program that take effect in 2016. For people preparing to start their Social Security benefits, th...Read on...

Video News: Your property tax bill, Lester Ball Field dedication, Lino at Museum of Glass, and more

Pierce County News for the week of Feb. 18, 2016

• Assessor-Treasurer helps make sense of your property tax bill
• Puyallup names ballfield after Major League pitcher Jon Lester
• Puyallup homeowners can get free trees in new program
• Low-income households can get ...

Auditor seeks to appoint “For” and “Against” committee members for voters’ pamphlet

A citizen’s petition to “Form a metropolitan park district in University Place” has qualified for the April 26, 2016 ballot. The Pierce County Auditor’s Office is opening a special appointment period to recruit individuals to write a “for” and “against” s...Read on...

Auditor announces election date and candidate filing period for the Proposed University Place Metrop

A citizen’s petition to “Form a metropolitan park district in University Place” has qualified for the April 26, 2016 ballot. At the same election that the proposition is submitted to the voters as to whether a metropolitan park district is to be formed, f...Read on...

Try Hockey For Free Day coming to Sprinker Ice Arena Feb. 20.

Pierce County Parks and Recreation invites boys and girls to Sprinker Ice Arena on Saturday, Feb. 20 for a Try Hockey For Free clinic as part of Hockey Weekend Across America. Starting at 5:45 p.m. local youth, ages 4 to 9, are encouraged to experience ic...Read on...

Figueroa and Swanson elected to leadership of Rainier Communications Commission

University Place Mayor Javier Figueroa and City of Puyallup Councilmember Tom Swanson have been elected to lead the Rainier Communications Commission, which advises local jurisdictions on telecommunications issues and televises local government programmin...Read on...

Pierce County offices closed Monday, Feb. 15

In observance of Presidents' Day, Pierce County administrative offices will be closed Monday, Feb. 15. Normal business hours will resume on Tuesday, Feb. 16.

Video News: Earthquake workshops, building permits go digital, and more

Pierce County News for the week of Feb. 11, 2016

• Earthquake workshops around Pierce County focus on ‘the big one’
• County Council could lift firearms prohibition in Graham-Kapowsin
• Building permits go digital in Pierce County’s planning department
• Puyallup ...

Pierce County Council meeting coming to University Place

In an effort to make government more accessible, the Pierce County Council brings its weekly meeting to various locations across the County several times each year.

Residents are invited to attend when Councilmember Connie Ladenburg hosts the Council...Read on...

Pierce County looking for resort-style development at Chambers Bay

Developers asked to submit Statement of Qualifications

Pierce County is looking for a partner to design, finance, construct and operate a resort-style development adjacent to the Chambers Bay Golf Course in University Place, Wash. Chambers Bay hosted t...Read on...

Video News: Counting homeless, saving farmland, attracting golfers, and more

Pierce County News for the week of Feb. 4, 2016

• Homeless count highlights new efforts in Puyallup
• County, PCC Farmland Trust save two farms from development
• Puyallup doubles money for new sidewalks in 2016
• Sound Transit adding more Sounder runs in 2016-2017...

Pierce County is looking to lease

Pierce County is seeking greater efficiencies in leased space and opportunities to provide a better return on investment to taxpayers.

Numerous leases are expiring this calendar year. The county must continue to lease office space. However, it is not ...Read on...

Video News: Spike in passports, Van Lierop land transfers hands, ice show at Sprinker, and more

Pierce County News for the week of Jan. 28, 2016

• County Auditor’s licensing office sees spike in passport applications
• Puyallup and Step by Step cut the ribbon on Van Lierop land purchase
• EFN finds seniors are a growing population at food banks
• Meet the Far...

Libby Catalinich named Pierce County Director of Communications

County Executive Pat McCarthy has selected Libby Catalinich as the next Director of Communications. The first day on the job for Catalinich will be Feb. 8, with confirmation by the County Council to follow.

Catalinich will leave her positon as Senior A...Read on...

Milestone reached in Puyallup Valley farmland conservation

PCC Farmland Trust has announced that Puyallup Valley’s Shelstad Farm and Harman Farm are preserved in perpetuity, joining five other working farms in the area that have been conserved by the organization.

PCC Farmland Trust will celebrate the conserv...Read on...

Record-breaking year at Sprinker Recreation Center

The Pierce County Parks and Recreation Department announced that the Sprinker Recreation Center experienced record-breaking attendance and revenue in 2015.

Parks and Recreation has worked diligently to improve Sprinker and the facility has experienced...Read on...

Video News: 2016 economic outlook, TAM receives Benaroya Collection, and more

Pierce County News for the week of Jan. 21, 2016

• Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber gives 2016 economic outlook
• Find out which new businesses are coming to Puyallup and Sumner
• County’s Planning Department says housing market in upward trend
• Charter Review Commis...

Rehabilitation of six sewer manholes to begin Jan. 25 in Lakewood

Construction work to preserve the life of six sewer collection manholes in Lakewood will begin Jan. 25.

Crews will replace corroded interior iron drop structures, install new manhole steps, and rehabilitate walls, shelves, and channels. Additionally, ...Read on...

Video News: Gun permits, leadership changes, Seahawks Rally, and more

Pierce County News for the week of Jan. 14, 2016

• Gun permits in December break record in Pierce County
• County needs volunteers to help with Jan. 29 homeless count
• New Year brings leadership changes to County and City councils
• Bates opens Advanced Technolog...

Volunteers needed to help count homeless people in Pierce County

The Pierce County Department of Community Connections and Tacoma-Lakewood-Pierce County Continuum of Care to End Homelessness are looking for volunteers to gather census data of the homeless population and those on the verge of becoming homeless in Pierce...Read on...

Board of Equalization seeks members

Applications are being accepted to fill two regular Members and one Alternate Member on the Pierce County Board of Equalization. The seven member board hears appeals from taxpayers who disagree with the assessed value of their properties as determined by ...Read on...

Pierce County Council chooses new leadership for 2016

Pierce County Councilmember Doug Richardson has been elected as council chair for 2016. The seven-member body voted for leadership positions at the council’s Jan. 12 weekly meeting. Voting for committee leadership will occur at the Jan. 19 council meeting...Read on...

Councilmember Young selected for new transportation leadership academy

Transportation For America has selected Pierce County Councilmember Derek Young to participate in the 2016 Transportation Leadership Academy.

The yearlong training academy focuses on teaching local leaders about performance measurements to better asse...Read on...

Chambers Bay experiences changing demographic of golfers

Following a historic year in which Chambers Bay hosted the first U.S. Open in the Pacific Northwest, the course recently released statistics that illustrate the marketing benefits of hosting the National Championship. As a result of forty hours of televis...Read on...

Video News: Upgrade lahar system, hoarding workshops, hockey at Sprinker, and more

Pierce County News for the week of Jan. 7, 2016

• U.S. Open brings $134M in economic impact to region
• Technology upgrade coming to County’s lahar warning system
• See how Road Operations Center worked during December floods
• Hoarding workshops target 1 in 20 pe...

Don’t Drip and Drive campaign wins National Environmental Achievement Award

Informed drivers find and fix car leaks for cleaner water

Pierce and King counties have won the National Association of Clean Water Agencies (NACWA) National Environmental Achievement Award for Excellence in Public Information and Education for the joi...Read on...

2015 U.S. Open Championship tallies $134 million in regional economic impact

Pierce County and neighboring counties realized a $134 million boost in total economic impact from the U.S. Open Championship, conducted by the United States Golf Association at Chambers Bay Golf Course June 15-21, 2015, a recent study reveals.

Commis...Read on...

Learn skills to deal with initial diagnosis of Alzheimer’s

Pierce County Community Connections Aging and Disability Resources is hosting a repeat series of the popular “Oh My Gosh – Now What?” The 6-part series of discussions for families and individuals focuses on the initial journey through Alzheimer’s and oth...Read on...

Video News: Best of the last 10 years

Pierce County News for the week of Dec. 31, 2015

• 2005 The Gig Harbor Marina goes up in smoke
• 2006 East Pierce County sees record flooding
• 2007 Look back at the opening of the second Tacoma Narrows Bridge
• 2008 Italian glass master Lino Tagliapietra visits t...

Video News: Local election stats, fire districts go digital, Sumner shops small, and more

Pierce County News for the week of Nov. 17, 2016

• See how big local races and Charter amendments are shaping up
• Surprising stats come out of Pierce County’s General Election
• South Sound 911 moves fire districts to computer-aided dispatch
• Chambers Bay Resort...

Video News: Best of 2015

Pierce County News: Best of 2015

• Piano-playing juvenile fills Remann Hall with music
• Hot Shop Heroes showcases healing exhibit at Museum of Glass
• A surprise homecoming reunites an airman with his son at the ballpark
• Meet the Farmer: Why fall season is crit...

Workshop brings hoarding out from the shadows

Television has made hoarding into prime time entertainment. But hoarding is serious business that can last a lifetime – a mental health disorder that may touch over 1 million people in the US. Often families are torn apart, friends are alienated and mar...Read on...

Treecycle your Christmas tree

After you take down the decorations, don’t forget to treecycle your Christmas tree.

Pierce County residents who subscribe to yard waste collection service can place their unflocked tree in their container. Flocked trees cannot be recycled and must be ...Read on...

Video News: Holiday Special -- Best of the U.S. Open

Pierce County News for the week of Dec. 17, 2015

• Jordan Spieth becomes youngest player since 1923 to win championship
• A historical look at Pierce County’s Chambers Bay property
• Local PGA golfers play Chambers Bay
• Former County Executive John Ladenburg on th...

County Council amends ordinance to allow sale of marijuana

Businesses must be licensed and meet county and state requirements

The County Council this afternoon repealed its de facto ban on marijuana production and sales in unincorporated areas. The bill changes the conditional use permit process by eliminating...Read on...

Auditor seeks to appoint committee members for voters’ pamphlets

The Pierce County Auditor’s Office is opening a special appointment period to recruit individuals to write committee statements for the Feb. 9, 2016, Special Election Local Voters’ Pamphlet in the following districts:

Committee members needed

• Against -...

Repair work on the Anderson Island ferry landing starts Dec. 14

Repairs will be made to the Pierce County Ferry landing on Anderson Island outside of sailing hours the week of Dec. 14.

Crews will repair damaged apron hinges and brackets between 9:15 p.m. on Dec. 14 and 5:45 a.m. Dec. 15. The apron hinges and brack...Read on...

Emergency Operations Center open

In response to flooding on multiple rivers, isolated landslides, and road closures in Pierce County, the Pierce County Emergency Operations Center opened today at a Level 2 at 9 a.m.

Officials are working with jurisdictions and partners across Pierce...Read on...

Crafters Creations event offers one-of-a-kind gifts for the holiday

Want to get out and pick from locally crafted, unique gifts for that “hard to buy for” person on your shopping list? With more than 55 vendors — and holiday experience fit for the season — Pierce County Parks invites you to shop at the 3rd annual Crafters...Read on...

Pierce County ferry fares to increase in 2016

Fares to ride the Pierce County Ferry will increase across all rider categories except for youth starting Jan. 1, 2016.

The increase was recommended as part of the 2015 Waterborne Transportation Study, and included in the 2016 Pierce County Budget.

...Read on...

Sheriff's Community Academy openings

The Pierce County Sheriff's Department is looking for interested citizens to attend its winter Community Academy program. The University Place academy begins Jan. 13, 2016 and will meet each Wednesday evening from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. for 10 weeks. The South...Read on...

Video News: Family Drug Court, Toys for Tots, Fantasy Lights, and more

Pierce County News for the week of Dec. 3, 2015

• Family Drug Court gives parents the tools to clean up their lives
• Standing Ovation Award for the Sewer and Traffic Operations Facility
• Toys for Tots collection is underway to help local kids in need
• Festival o...

Pierce County passes resolution supporting Stepping Up initiative

Program designed to reduce the number of people in jail with mental illness

The Pierce County Council yesterday passed a resolution announcing support for the national “Stepping Up” initiative. The program will be employed to reduce the number of peopl...Read on...

Two Day Winter Eco Camp at Sprinker Recreation Center

Make plans to keep the kids busy this winter break by making reservations for the newest addition to our environmental education programming. Winter Eco Camp will provide kids the opportunity to explore the gifts of nature at Spanaway’s Bresemann’s Forest...Read on...

21st annual Fantasy Lights experience to kick off at Spanaway Park

Over 300 lighted holiday displays will illuminate the grounds of Spanaway Park in Pierce County beginning Nov. 26 and running through Jan. 1, 2016. It’s the 21st annual Fantasy Lights drive-through display put on by Pierce County’s Parks and Recreation Se...Read on...

Video News: Property Crimes Unit, 2016 Budget, Meet the Farmer, and more

Pierce County News for the week of Nov. 19, 2015

• New Property Crimes Unit to go after criminals in 2016
• County Council’s 2016 budget includes marijuana enforcement, Foothills Trail
• More seniors and disabled to quality for tax exemptions in 2016
• Resources f...

Derek Young’s statement on passing of Gretchen Wilbert

Former Gig Harbor Mayor Gretchen Wilbert passed away last weekend. She served from 1990 through 2006. In response, Pierce County Council Member Derek Young issued this statement:

“On Sunday, we lost a true visionary and leader with the passing of Mayor...Read on...

Video News: Hot Shop Heroes, U.S. Open revenue, Metro Animal Services, and more

Pierce County News for the week of Nov. 12, 2015

• Hot Shop Heroes showcases healing exhibit at Museum of Glass
• Pierce County nets over $1 million from U.S. Open
• TPCHD offers help for Washington Healthplanfinder open enrollment
• Meet Standing Ovation Award wi...

County observes Veterans Day

Pierce County administrative offices will be closed Wednesday, Nov. 11, in observance of Veterans Day. Normal business hours will resume on Thursday, Nov. 12.

Emergency services will operate without interruption.

Councilmember McDonald concerned budget action will make marijuana problems worse

During the Pierce County Council’s budget debate at their Nov. 10 meeting, the body adopted an amendment that would create a special fund to enforce state and county marijuana laws. Councilmember Joyce McDonald – a vehement opponent of legalizing marijuan...Read on...

Talbert applauds passage of measure to fund property crimes unit

During budget debate at the Nov. 10 meeting of the Pierce County Council, the body adopted an amendment that funds the creation of a Sheriff’s unit dedicated solely to property crimes. It’s a measure which Councilmember Rick Talbert has been fighting on b...Read on...

Richardson proposal would crack down on illegal marijuana operations in Pierce County

After July 1, 2016, unlicensed marijuana sales operations in unincorporated Pierce County will be in violation of the law. Now that a budget amendment authored by Councilmember Doug Richardson has been adopted, those caught breaking the law after the cuto...Read on...

Recreation Assistant job opportunity with Parks and Recreation Department

Pierce County Parks and Recreation is accepting applications for a Recreation Assistant for the Indoor Playground program at the Lakewood Community Center.

The Indoor Playground program is a parent/guardian-child program with staff involvement. Appli...Read on...

Pierce County invites community to flood preparedness open house

Pierce County residents are invited to a flood preparedness open house from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Nov. 14 at Stewart Elementary School, 426 4th Ave. NE in Puyallup.

This free event will feature informational booths and short presentations about flood p...Read on...

Video News: Veterans job training, ballot tracking, piano-playing juvenile, and more

Pierce County News for the week of Nov. 5, 2015

• Soon-to-be veterans from JBLM get internships to learn civilian workforce
• Pierce County justice programs help incarcerated veterans
• Voters can track ballot, be notified of signature errors until certification ...

Economic impact of U.S. Open shows County fared well

Pierce County officials have released the numbers showing the U.S. Open’s economic impact on the county. The financial summary shows Pierce County incurred about $3.9 million in overall expenses and saw just over $5 million in revenue, resulting in a net ...Read on...

Video News: Pre-Trial Services, para carts for wounded vets, North Meadow parking, and more

Pierce County News for the week of Oct. 28, 2015

• Pre-Trial Services Program lets low-risk defendants out early
• County Council begins 2016 budget hearings
• Customer Service Building referendum in general election
• Deputy District Attorney honored for work with...

Pierce County hires Tiffany Speir as new Government Relations Director

County Executive Pat McCarthy has announced the hiring of Tiffany Speir as Director of Government Relations for Pierce County. Speir, formerly with the South Sound Military and Communities Partnership (SSMCP), has worked in Pierce County for the last seve...Read on...

Local United States District Court judge honored at U.S. Supreme Court

United States District Court Judge Robert Bryan was recognized at the annual American Inns of Court Celebration of Excellence event at the U.S. Supreme Court on Saturday, Oct. 24.

Bryan received the American Inns of Court Professionalism Award for the ...Read on...

Therapeutic Recreation Leader opportunity with Parks and Recreation

Pierce County Parks and Recreation is accepting applications for the position of Therapeutic Recreation Leader for the Companionship program’s Club TGIF and Camp Pierce.

Companionship’s Club TGIF provides inclusive recreation and socialization skills...Read on...

Fall fun for everyone at Parks and Recreation Family Bingo Night

The Pierce County Parks and Recreation Department will host the annual Family Bingo Night on Friday, Nov. 6. The event is scheduled from 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Meridian Habitat Park.

Doors open at 6 p.m. Event admission costs $5 per person and children...Read on...

Video News: County to see $1.5 billion in state projects, meet a pumpkin farmer, and more

Pierce County News for the week of Oct. 22, 2015

• South Sound 911 launches new dispatch system
• Pierce County to get $1.5 billion in state transportation projects
  
• Congestion relief for I-5 through JBLM will come over 10 years
• McMillin Bridge near Orting finds n...

Pierce County completes evaluation of ramp, sidewalk compliance with ADA standards

Nearly all sidewalks in unincorporated Pierce County are wide enough to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), while non-compliant curb ramps may be creating barriers to accessibility.

These findings are part of Pierce County’s American...Read on...

North Meadow parking area at Chambers Creek Regional Park to reopen after expansion

The North Meadow parking area at Chambers Creek Regional Park in University Place will reopen Oct. 24 following an expansion project that more than doubled the number of parking spaces in order to help meet high demand.

A new parking area with approxim...Read on...

More in-district Council meetings scheduled in Pierce County

The Pierce County Council has updated its list of upcoming meetings held in locations around the county in an effort to make government more accessible.

The Council, which normally meets Tuesdays in the County-City Building in downtown Tacoma, will hol...Read on...

Video News: EFN food shortage, Fife High School turns 100, and more

Pierce County News for the week of Oct. 15, 2015

• Emergency Food Network hit with major food shortage
• Grant gives all Pierce County farmers markets a boost in 2016
  
• General Election nears—what’s on the ballot?
• County road crews get ready for snow and ice condit...

Pierce County hailed winner by Thomson Reuters

Thomson Reuters has bestowed a rare Public Sector Champion award to Casey Kaul, on behalf of the Pierce County Auditor’s Recording Team.

Public Sector Champions are individuals and jurisdictions that have achieved excellence in planning, leadership an...Read on...

Community Connections director leaving position at Pierce County

After nearly five years with Pierce County Community Connections, Helen Howell’s last day as director of that department will be Tuesday, Nov. 3.

Howell will be transitioning to her new role as Executive Director of Building Changes, an organization th...Read on...

Event highlights resources, services, programs, supports for seniors and disabled

Pierce County has a wealth of resources, services, programs, supports and benefits to help older adults and individuals of all ages remain safe, independent and active at home. Making the Link 2015 is the premiere opportunity for professionals, volunteer...Read on...

Video News: The Trails of Pierce County

Pierce County News for the week of Oct. 8, 2015

• Two new extensions of Foothills Trail coming in 2016-17
• Uncover history along DuPont’s Sequalitchew Creek Trail
  
• Chambers Creek Regional Park boasts 5k trail and beach access
• Cushman Trail in Gig Harbor offers a...

Pierce County road crews prepare for winter weather

Pierce County is preparing now for winter weather on county roads.

On Oct. 12 and 13, Pierce County road crews will travel their snow plow routes, set up and recalibrate equipment, and review the county’s Snow and Ice Response Plan in anticipation of w...Read on...

Pierce County Television takes home 17 awards at national banquet

Each year, the National Association of Telecommunications Officers and Advisors (NATOA) holds an awards banquet to honor the best in government television programming. Pierce County TV (PCTV) took home 17 awards at the 2015 event, including two first-plac...Read on...

Reduce flooding by keeping storm drains clear of leaves

Pierce County residents can reduce flooding on Pierce County roads by picking up yard waste on their properties and making sure nearby storm drains are free of leaves.

“With wet fall weather returning and leaves falling, the potential for flooding alon...Read on...

Video News: Hiring corrections deputies, precinct celebrates one year, Farm app, and more

Pierce County News for the week of Oct. 1, 2015.

• Working behind bars: Becoming a corrections deputy in the Pierce County Jail
• Felons find process easy for restoring voting rights
• Parkland-Spanaway Sheriff’s Precinct making progress in community
• University ...

Medicare changes place responsibilities on beneficiaries

Medicare is complex. Beneficiaries are faced with a wide range of options, many of which are very confusing. Medicare now offers beneficiaries two basic options – Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage – and dozens of additional choices within each pat...Read on...

Video News: President Xi visits Tacoma, 2016 budget hearings, dog park opens, and more

Pierce County News for the week of Sept. 24, 2015.

• Chinese President Xi visits Tacoma’s Lincoln High School
• Money for sewer plant construction in proposed 2016 budget
  
• County Council approves Conservation Futures projects
• Learn how the Conservatio...

Oct. 7 workshop offered on caring for neighborhood stormwater systems

Pierce County homeowners and homeowner association members are invited to a free workshop Oct. 7 to learn how to prepare neighborhood stormwater systems for the rainy season.

The 2015 Community Stormwater Event runs from 6-8 p.m. Oct. 7 in the Allmend...Read on...

Lacamas Creek Bridge reopens following replacement

The Lacamas Creek Bridge, located along 288th Street South just east of 48th Avenue South, reopened Sept. 23 after it was replaced.

The two-lane bridge, which is located east of Roy, had been closed since July 13 for the work. The bridge was replaced ...Read on...

Free CPR Sunday event at Foss High School

The annual FREE CPR Sunday event is October 11th at Foss High School. Learn how to provide infant, child, and adult CPR and receive instruction on how to use a defibrillator.

View brochure information here. Please call 253-594-7979 or log on to www.CP...Read on...

Pierce County Sheriff’s Mounted Posse hosts Open House for new Applicants

The Pierce County Sheriff’s Mounted Posse is accepting applications to volunteer with the group. An Open House will be held on Oct. 6 at 7 p.m. at the Parkland-Spanaway Sherriff’s Precinct for people interested in joining the posse.

The Mounted Posse ...Read on...

Executive McCarthy unveils sustainable, customer-focused 2016 budget

Pierce County Executive Pat McCarthy detailed her budget proposal before the County Council Tuesday, highlighting an expanded economy, improved customer services and an investment in what she termed the “moral center” of government.

Her 2016 budget pro...Read on...

Puget Sound Fresh app wins national award for best new mobile app

Western Washington farmers and consumers who support local food already love the Puget Sound Fresh app. Both Android and Apple users can use the app to find more than 350 farms and farmers markets, as well as recipes, harvest calendars and events.

Now ...Read on...

Video News: Sumner YMCA, military voters, beekeeping, and more

Pierce County News for the week of Sept. 17, 2015.

• Largest YMCA in state opens in Sumner
• Pierce County Elections prepares military & overseas ballots
  
• Frederickson industrial fire misses County building
• Pierce County Council overrides veto to ...

Non-peak season Pierce County Ferry fare rates go into effect Oct. 1

Non-peak season fare rates start Oct. 1 for Pierce County Ferry passengers.

Passengers driving vehicles 21 feet in length or less will see their rates decrease from the peak season rate of $22.30 to the non-peak season rate of $17.80, while passengers...Read on...

Chambers Creek Regional Park to reopen dog park, beach access

Pierce County Parks and Recreation has announced the off-leash dog area and beach access at Chamber Creek Regional Park will reopen on Friday, Sept. 18. These areas have been closed since the U.S. Open golf championship, which took place June 15-21, 2015,...Read on...

Canines and costumes at the Parks and Recreation Woof Woof Walk

The Pierce County Parks and Recreation Department will host the Woof Woof Walk for pet owners and their dogs on Saturday, Oct. 24. The event will last from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Spanaway Park.

Woof Woof Walk participants can choose between a 1.5-mile or ...Read on...

500 vehicles expected at Sept. 26 Classic Car & Truck Show

Pierce County Parks and Recreation will hold the 13th annual Hi-Tech Collision Classic Car & Truck Show at Sprinker Recreation Center on Saturday, Sept. 26.

Hours for the free spectator event are 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. More than 500 classic cars and truc...Read on...

Video News: Best of the U.S. Open

Pierce County News for the week of Sept. 10, 2015.

• Jordan Spieth becomes youngest player since 1923 to win championship
• A historical look at Pierce County’s Chambers Bay property
  
• Local PGA golfers play Chambers Bay
• Former County Executive John Lad...

Pierce County Airport-Thun Field’s runway to be closed during pavement work

Temporary closures of Pierce County Airport-Thun Field’s runway will take place between Sept. 14 and Sept. 18 while crews seal pavement cracks and replace signage and markings.

The runway will be closed overnight from 7 a.m. Sept. 14 to 6 p.m. Sept. 15...Read on...

Council schedules more meetings to be held around Pierce County

The Pierce County Council will hold upcoming meetings in Eatonville, Buckley and Tacoma as part of its effort to make government more accessible to more people.

The Council, which normally meets Tuesdays in the County-City Building in downtown Tacoma, ...Read on...

Forum provides businesses opportunity to do work with government

Businesses looking to win government contracts will have the opportunity at the Greater Pierce County Purchasing Forum on Wednesday, Oct. 14, from 8 a.m. to noon at the STAR Center, 3873 S. 66th St in Tacoma. Click here for map and directions.

Learn fi...Read on...

Alzheimer’s conference explores power of music

Hope continues to grow for successful medical treatments for Alzheimer's. In the meantime people around the world are finding immense success with the therapeutic power of music for individuals dealing with the disease.

The annual Pierce County Alzhe...Read on...

Tiny Tots indoor playground reopens at the Lakewood Community Center

The weather is changing but that doesn't mean the fun has to stop. Visitors are invited to bring their children to the Lakewood Community Center to experience the Tiny Tots indoor playground.

Kids aged five and under will delight in the opportunity to ...Read on...

Parks and Recreation Touch A Truck event

The Pierce County Parks and Recreation Department will host the sixth-annual Touch A Truck event on Saturday, Sept. 12. The event will last from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Sprinker Recreation Center.

Touch A Truck allows the public to explore a variety of tr...Read on...

Learn skills to deal with initial diagnosis of Alzheimer’s

Pierce County Community Connections Aging and Disability Resources is hosting a repeat series of the popular “Oh My Gosh – Now What?”, a 6-part series of discussions for families and individuals about the initial journey through Alzheimer’s and other Deme...Read on...

County observes Labor Day

Pierce County administrative offices will be closed Monday, Sept. 7, in observance of Labor Day. Normal business hours will resume on Tuesday, Sept. 8.

Police help seniors to be safe at home

Local communities have become much more accessible and senior-friendly. Even so, when it comes to personal safety, older adults and people with disabilities need to take special precautions at home as well as out and about.

Together with local polic...Read on...

Council reconsiders, approves behavioral health study proposal

Having voted on the prevailing side in the Pierce County Council’s rejection of a proposal to take stock of the county’s behavioral health system on Aug. 25, Councilmember Doug Richardson called for reconsideration at the Sept. 1 council meeting.

R2015-91 ...Read on...

Pierce County Sheriff seeking Community Academy participants

The Pierce County Sheriff's Department is looking for interested citizens to attend its fall Community Academy program. A Gig Harbor/Peninsula academy begins Sept. 24 and will meet each Thursday evening from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. for 10 weeks.

The academy...Read on...

Councilmember Young’s statement on Executive’s second comprehensive plan override

On Friday, Aug. 28, Pierce County Executive Pat McCarthy notified members of the County Council that she was vetoing the Council’s passage of a county comprehensive plan for the second time, citing concern over an amendment that would allow larger scale r...Read on...

Young disappointed after Council’s behavioral health study vote

Pierce County Councilmembers Derek Young and Connie Ladenburg had proposed a resolution directing the Performance Audit Committee to conduct a thorough, countywide evaluation of behavioral health services. However, Council Resolution R2015-91 was not adop...Read on...

Pioneer Way entrance to Swan Creek Park closed Sept. 9-18

The Swan Creek Park entrance at Pioneer Way and the park area on the southeast side of Swan Creek will be closed weekdays Sept. 9-18 while crews dredge a sediment pond.

The Pioneer Way entrance and all park property on the southeast side of Swan Creek wi...Read on...

Pierce County to reduce water usage in response to drought

Pierce County government will be taking steps to reduce water usage by at least 10 percent.

“I am asking staff to reduce the irrigation of lawns and landscaping at our facilities until further notice,” said Pierce County Executive Pat McCarthy. “We ar...Read on...

County to open more areas of Chambers Creek Regional Park

Pierce County Parks and Recreation is announcing that Soundview Trail, Central Meadow parking lot and the Central Meadow restrooms will reopen to the public on Saturday, Aug. 22. Those areas of Chambers Creek Regional Park had been closed for the U.S. Ope...Read on...

Video News: Fife school cameras, road striping platform, Washington State Fair, and more

Pierce County News for the week of Aug. 21, 2015.

• Fife school zone cameras start giving tickets Sept. 3
• Road striping crew covers more ground safely with innovative platform
  
• County Council considers rule changes for marijuana businesses
• Inventory...

Labor Day weekend brings holiday schedule, extreme tide warning for Pierce County Ferry

The Pierce County Ferry will operate on its holiday schedule on Labor Day, Sept. 7.

Pierce County ferry riders in large vehicles and vehicles with low ground clearance - such as an RV, commercial truck or a vehicle towing a trailer – traveling to or f...Read on...

Glacial outburst flood and debris flow occurs at Mount Rainier National Park

From Mount Rainier National Park News:

A glacial outburst flood and debris flow occurred at Tahoma Creek in Mount Rainier National Park on Thursday, August 13, 2015 beginning at approximately 9:40 am. The glacial outburst flood originated from the Sout...Read on...

Video News: Comprehensive Plan, fire evacuations, Duris Cucumber Farm, and more

Pierce County News for the week of Aug. 13, 2015

• County Council modifies, adopts Comprehensive Plan after Executive veto
• Fire officials say be ready for fire evacuations, sign up for alerts
  
• Fife moves historic fountain to final resting place
• Boot...

Auditor seeks to appoint “For” and “Against” committee members for voters’ pamphlet

A citizen’s petition for the “Sale of spirits for on-premises consumption in the City of Fircrest” has qualified for the November 3, 2015 ballot. The Pierce County Auditor’s Office is opening a special appointment period to recruit individuals to write a ...Read on...

Councilmember Young tapped to serve in a national position

The National Association of Counties (NACo) has named Pierce County Councilmember Derek Young as the newest member of its Health Steering Committee. The organization, which represents county governments nationwide, made the announcement following its 2015...Read on...

Plan ahead to maximize your Social Security benefits

For people planning on receiving Social Security now or in the future, knowing how to make the benefits is critical. A few simple tips can save beneficiaries thousands of dollars. And for those currently receiving Social Security benefits, there may be ...Read on...

Video News: Marijuana task force, Primary Election, Fennel Creek, and more

Pierce County News for the week of Aug. 6, 2015.

• County’s Marijuana Task Force to shut down unlicensed pot shops
• Health Department educates parents about e-cigarettes
  
• Primary Election sets new record for registered voters
• Fire officials warn boater...

Pierce County’s next-generation permitting system best in the nation

Pierce County has won a top technology award for creating the most advanced permitting system in the nation. The Exemplary Systems in Government (ESIG) Award recognizes the county’s efforts to streamline a key service and save significant money.

"...Read on...

Auditor seeks to appoint “against” committee members for voters’ pamphlet

The Pierce County Auditor’s Office is opening a special appointment period to recruit individuals to write an “against” statement for the November 3, 2015, General Election Local Voters’ Pamphlet in the following district:

“Against” committee members neede...Read on...

Parks and Recreation offers Northwest Magic basketball “boot camp”

Thursday, Aug. 13, is the last day to register for Northwest Magic Boot Camp, a program presented by the Pierce County Parks and Recreation Department.

The rigorous basketball skills camp concentrates on discipline, attitude, fundamentals, and developm...Read on...

Urban Forestry Restoration Project to clean up Bresemann Forest and Spanaway Park

Throughout the month of August, a team from Puget SoundCorps – part of the broader Washington Conservation Corps – will work with Pierce County Parks and Recreation and the Pierce Conservation District to help restore areas of Bresemann Forest and Spanawa...Read on...

2015 Primary Election information and results schedule available

On Aug. 4, 2015, Pierce County will join with the rest of Washington State in voting in the 2015 primary election. The Pierce County Auditor's office has published an election information and results schedule that details what's on the ballot, what specia...Read on...

Video News: JBLM drawdown, beach cleanup, Puyallup 125th birthday, and more

Pierce County News for the week of July 30, 2015.

• Military personnel transitioning from JBLM have help finding new careers
• Pierce County Council honors retiring JBLM commander Col. Hodges
  
• Key Peninsula shoreline tour focuses on failing septic systems...

New work hours for Crystal Mountain Boulevard East project due to fire precautions

Work will resume Aug. 3 on a project to resurface 6.1 miles of Crystal Mountain Boulevard East from State Route 410 to the Crystal Mountain Resort after work was suspended July 6 due to fire precautions in the area.

The current schedule calls for work...Read on...

Sheriff's Community Academy openings

The Pierce County Sheriff's Department is looking for interested citizens to attend its winter Community Academy program. The Parkland/Spanaway academy begins Sept. 3 and will meet each Thursday evening from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. for 10 weeks.

The academy ...Read on...

Parks and Recreation updates Junk in Your Trunk event schedule

Pierce County Parks and Recreation will host two more Junk in Your Trunk community events this summer. The last event is scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 19 instead of Saturday, Sept. 12.

Junk in Your Trunk is a variation of the traditional garage sale c...Read on...

County outlines strategy for enforcing marijuana violations

By July 1, 2016, all unlicensed marijuana sales operations in unincorporated Pierce County – medical and recreational – must close. That message has been delivered to county landlords, business owners and operators whose establishments involve the burgeon...Read on...

Councilmembers Young, Ladenburg call for countywide mental health audit

In response to the growing behavioral health crisis facing Pierce County, Councilmembers Connie Ladenburg and Derek Young have introduced a resolution calling for an audit of the County’s mental health resources.

“We know that we have a mental health c...Read on...

6th District Council meeting will honor retiring JBLM commander

The Pierce County Council will hold a special meeting in DuPont at 5 p.m. on Monday, July 27, to recognize the retirement of U.S. Army Col. H. Charles Hodges as well as conduct regular council business. Col. Hodges has served as commander of Joint Base Le...Read on...

Pierce County wins state and national award for its Sewer and Traffic Operations Facility

Pierce County recently won Project of the Year—Structures $25 million to $75 million at both the Washington State Chapter and the National level of the American Public Works Association (APWA) for its new Sewer and Traffic Operations Facility.

The Sou...Read on...

Foothills Trail between Orting and Crocker trailheads to close for levee maintenance

The Foothills Trail between the Orting and Crocker trailheads will be closed up to two weeks in late July and early August. If the trail can re-open safely, it may re-open after 5 p.m. and on weekends. Check the project website for daily updates at www.pi...Read on...

Councilmember Talbert’s statement on comp plan reconsideration

After Pierce County Executive Pat McCarthy vetoed the comprehensive plan passed by the County Council on June 30, 2015, Councilmember Rick Talbert (5th District) issued the following statement regarding two amendments cited as the primary reason for the v...Read on...

Auditor announces special three-day candidate filing period

A special three-day candidate filing period will be held July 22, 23 and 24, 2015 from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. State law requires a reopening of the filing period when no one files for a position during the regular filing period.

Declarations of Candida...Read on...

Council Chair’s statement on Executive veto of Pierce County comprehensive plan

After learning that Pierce County Executive Pat McCarthy vetoed the county’s comprehensive plan, passed unanimously by the County Council on June 30, Council Chair Dan Roach issued the following statement:

“I am surprised that the executive chose to re...Read on...

Video News: Best of the U.S. Open

Pierce County News for the week of July 16, 2015.

• Jordan Spieth becomes youngest player since 1923 to win championship
• A historical look at Pierce County’s Chambers Bay property
  
• Local PGA golfers play Chambers Bay
• Former County Executive John Laden...

Delays expected on Brookdale Road East July 23-24 due to paving work

Motorists can expect moderate delays on Brookdale Road East, 131st Street East, and A Street South in Parkland from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. July 23-24 while crews place the final pavement on the roadway.

A pilot car will guide motorists though the paving pro...Read on...

Pavement work at Tacoma Narrows Airport starts July 21

Work to seal pavement cracks and replace markings at Tacoma Narrows Airport will begin July 21. The airport will remain open during the nighttime work.

Crews will seal pavement cracks on the north half of Taxiway A, the connector taxiways, and the nort...Read on...

Councilmember Doug Richardson’s Statement on JBLM Personnel Drawdown and Transportation Funding

U.S. Army officials announced last week that Joint Base Lewis-McCord will reduce troop strength by 1,250, a number that is much lower than previously proposed.

“The reduced personnel drawdown is great news for Pierce County and District 6,” said Counci...Read on...

Executive McCarthy statement regarding referendum on General Services Building

“The merits of this project are clear: we can save taxpayers tens of millions of dollars and dramatically improve customer service by consolidating 19 divisions from 14 locations into one. We can do this while owning the building instead of continuing to ...Read on...

Dan Roach statement on General Services Building referendum

In response to the Pierce County Auditor’s announcement that an effort by county resident Jerry Gibbs calling for a vote on the county’s proposed General Services building has collected enough signatures to qualify for the November 2015 ballot, Pierce Cou...Read on...

Referendum qualifies for ballot

The Pierce County Auditor’s Office has completed checking the signatures of Referendum 2015-1 regarding the proposed General Services Building. The referendum needed 24,427 valid signatures to qualify and achieved 24,493 valid signatures at approximately ...Read on...

Pierce County makes the top ten list of digital leaders in government

Pierce County has made the list of “Top Ten” digital leaders, according to the 2015 Digital County Survey. The annual survey recognizes leading examples of counties using technology to improve services and boost efficiencies.

“It is an honor for Pierc...Read on...

Video News: Restoring Chambers, fire fighting resources, Tacoma Narrows Aviation Zone, and more

Pierce County News for the week of July 9, 2015.

• Restoring trails and parks around Chambers Bay after the U.S. Open
• U.S. Open food donation gives local food banks a summer boost
  
• Fire Marshal says Pierce County has resources for long fire season
• Re...

County Executive’s statement on JBLM personnel drawdown

Pierce County Executive Pat McCarthy issued the following statement regarding the announcement that U.S. Army officials intend to only reduce the force at Joint Base Lewis-McChord by 1,250, a number far lower than originally proposed.

“Last summer, the...Read on...

Video News: Tourism Special

Pierce County News for the week of July 2, 2015.

• Chambers Creek Regional Park
• Ft. Lewis History Museum
  
• Gig Harbor maritime
• Paradise at Mt. Rainier
  
• Northwest Trek ziplines
• Sumner Link Trail
  
• Brown’s Point Lighthouse Keepers
• Shark d...

$35.5M for flood risk reduction, habitat projects

Last week state legislators awarded $35.5 million dollars to the Floodplains by Design grant program in the capital budget paving the way for seven multiple benefit projects across the state to move forward.

Floodplains by Design, administered by the ...Read on...

Sounds of music fill the air at Meridian Habitat Park

Pierce County Parks and Recreation will host free live music concerts at Meridian Habitat Park in Puyallup on Friday nights in July.

The concert series will feature a variety of musical styles that appeal to music lovers of all ages and tastes. Spectat...Read on...

County observes Independence Day

Pierce County administrative offices will be closed Friday, July 3, in observance of Independence Day.

Offices will reopen Monday, July 6.

Ron Klein named interim communications director as Hunter George heads to Metro Parks Tacoma

Pierce County Executive Pat McCarthy has named Ron Klein as the interim director of the Department of Communications while a search is made for a permanent hire.

Klein succeeds Hunter George, who has served as director since 2009 and resigned to take ...Read on...

Stay safe and legal this 4th of July

The Pierce County Fire Marshal and Department of Emergency Management wants to wish everyone a happy and safe 4th of July. The best way to safely enjoy the 4th is to watch a public fireworks display conducted by professionals. However, if you decide to ...Read on...

Playground by the Sound at Chambers Creek Regional Park to reopen July 3

Pierce County’s Parks and Recreation department has announced the Playground by the Sound at Chambers Creek Regional Park will reopen to the public on Friday, July 3. The popular playground has been closed since May 26, 2015, in preparation for the U.S. O...Read on...

Lacamas Creek Bridge to close July 13 for replacement

The Lacamas Creek Bridge, located along 288th Street South just east of 48th Avenue South, will close July 13 while it is replaced. The bridge is expected to open in mid-October.

A 7.5 mile detour will take motorists along 40th Avenue South, Tisch Road...Read on...

Inslee announces appointment of Michael Schwartz to the Pierce County Superior Court

Gov. Jay Inslee today announced he is appointing Michael Schwartz to the Pierce County Superior Court. Schwartz serves as a sole practitioner, handling complex felony and civil litigation in both state and federal courts. He has operated his own private l...Read on...

County set to start resurfacing of Crystal Mountain Blvd East

Work will begin Monday, June 29 on a Pierce County project to resurface 6.1 miles of Crystal Mountain Boulevard East from State Route 410 to the Crystal Mountain Resort during the summer and fall of 2015 and 2016. Crews will also install new guardrails an...Read on...

Excessive heat advisory issued

The National Weather Service has issued a special weather statement for hot weather for parts of the Puget Sound area this weekend. Temperatures are expected to be in the upper 80s to mid 90s on Friday through Sunday.

The Pierce County Department of E...Read on...

Project to restore salmon habitat on Fennel Creek begins July 1

A project to restore salmon habitat on Fennel Creek where it joins the Puyallup River will begin July 1 and continue through the end of August. Truck traffic along McCutcheon Road between 96th Street East and 128th Street East may increase during the work...Read on...

Video News: U.S. Open Special from the 18th fairway

Pierce County News for the week of June 22, 2015.

• Jordan Spieth becomes youngest player to since 1923 to win championship
• County leaders examine how it went, from transportation to security
  
• Go inside the exclusive corporate hospitality tents at Cha...

Chambers Creek Regional Park reopening in stages, starting June 26

Just hours after Jordan Spieth won the 2015 U.S. Open, construction crews were already beginning to remove the infrastructure that supported the championship in order to restore public access to Chambers Creek Regional Park as quickly as possible.

The ...Read on...

Fourth of July weekend brings holiday schedule, extreme tide warning for Pierce County Ferry

The Pierce County Ferry will operate on its holiday schedule July 3 and 4.

The Pierce County Ferry will operate a one-boat service. Pierce County will extend the service day on July 3 and 4 by adding a triangle departing Steilacoom at 11 p.m. to accomm...Read on...

50 percent off all 2015 U.S. Open Championship merchandise

All remaining inventory in the U.S. Open Main Merchandise Pavilion at Chambers Bay will be on sale at 50 percent off on Monday, June 22, from 10 a.m. until 8 p.m. Logoed apparel, headwear, shirts, towels and many other items will be included in the sale. ...Read on...

Executive McCarthy: Chambers Bay was worthy of the toughest test in golf

The following is a statement by Pierce County Executive Pat McCarthy about the conclusion of the 2015 U.S. Open:

"Congratulations to Jordan Spieth on winning the 2015 U.S. Open Championship. It was a thrilling week with lots of dramatic lead chang...Read on...

Video News: U.S. Open Special from Chambers Bays

Pierce County News for the week of June 18, 2015.

• Hear what the big-name players have to say about Chambers Bay
• An early morning behind the scenes with the grounds keepers
  
• Mike Davis with the USGA talks course setup during the U.S. Open
• An insid...

Dry weather prompts county-wide burn ban

The Pierce County Fire Marshal has declared a county-wide burn ban effective 8 a.m., Monday, June 22, until further notice. Dry weather and forecasts calling for continued dry heat prompted the limited ban, issued jointly with the Pierce County Fire Chief...Read on...

U.S. Open caterer serves a Northwest menu to thousands

From Northwest Nicoise Salad that includes local line-caught albacore tuna to Seattle-style hot dogs with cream cheese, grilled onions, mustard and sauerkraut, or a fish taco station with Pacific cod, Susan Lacz thoughtfully creates her menu selections to...Read on...

Learn how to make decisions when you can’t

Car crashes, sports injuries, work mishaps, falls, home accidents, acute diseases and infections, disasters. Something happens and suddenly you are no longer able to speak. What do you want for your care? How will your resources be spent? Who will decide?...Read on...

Tacoma Narrows Airport welcomes U.S. Open Championship traffic, fans

Peter Harrington knows to look up when he hears the word “plane.”

But the 18-month-old from San Clemente, Calif. just had to look forward to see two jets parked on the tarmac right outside Tacoma Narrows Airport’s new observation area on Monday, June 1...Read on...

Video News: U.S. Open Special from Spectator Square

Pierce County News for the week of June 11, 2015.

• Building a temporary city from beginning to end
• A historical look at Pierce County’s Chambers Bay property
  
• Former County Executive John Ladenburg on the decision to build Chambers Bay
• Meet Chambe...

Community invited to June 24 open house on planned Point Fosdick Drive Northwest roundabout

The community is invited to learn about a planned roundabout at the intersection of Point Fosdick Drive Northwest, Stone Drive Northwest, and 34th Avenue Northwest at an open house from 4-7 p.m. June 24 at the Goodman Middle School Commons, 3701 38th Ave....Read on...

Learn about Tacoma Narrows Airport’s draft water system plan June 23

Pierce County’s draft plan for Tacoma Narrows Airport’s water system will be presented at a June 23 public meeting at the airport.

The draft plan covers how the county manages and operates the water system, and describes system needs in the next 20 yea...Read on...

36 agencies join in support of U.S. Open security plan

The Pierce County Sheriff’s Department will be supported by 36 local, state and federal agencies as they provide for the safety and security of everyone attending the U.S. Open at Chambers Bay.

The Sheriff’s Department, which is the lead agency for pub...Read on...

USGA to open Merchandise Pavilion for Pre-Championship shopping

The United States Golf Association (USGA) announced today that the U.S. Open Main Merchandise Pavilion will be open to the public for pre-championship shopping from Thursday, June 11 through Sunday, June 14 (10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily). Tickets will not be r...Read on...

Pierce County ferry’s biennial checkup to start June 12

The biennial inspection of the M/V Steilacoom II, one of Pierce County’s two ferries, will begin June 12, and is expected to be complete July 9. The county’s other ferry, the M/V Christine Anderson, will handle the full schedule.

Vigor Industrial, the ...Read on...

Pierce County Parks and Recreation hosts annual Junk in Your Trunk event

Pierce County Parks and Recreation will host the annual Junk in Your Trunk community event on Saturday, June 20.

Junk in Your Trunk is a variation of the traditional garage sale concept. Vendors use their vehicles to transport and sell items in the Spr...Read on...

Video News: U.S. Open Special from the Chambers Bay clubhouse

Pierce County News for the week of June 3, 2015.

• Rare for U.S. Open to be held on a municipal golf course
• Who is the USGA? Learn about the history of the United States Golf Association
  
• Learn about the sustainability of Chambers Bay, from fescue to re...

Draft recommendations for Pierce County Ferry System to be presented June 11

Pierce County Ferry riders are invited to learn about draft recommendations developed during the ferry system’s Waterborne Transportation Study at a June 11 public meeting on Anderson Island.
The draft recommendations include short-term and long-term str...Read on...

Early registration for 25th annual Tour de Pierce bike ride ends June 12

Participants in the 2015 Tour de Pierce have until June 12 to register for the event at the $14 individual price, or $42 price for a family of four from the same household. The 25th annual bike ride to promote safety, fitness and fun kicks off June 28 in ...Read on...

Superior Court Judge Tom Larkin to retire July 31

Pierce County Superior Court Judge Tom Larkin will retire on July 31, ending a 30-year career as a judge in Pierce County.

Judge Larkin served 20 years in Superior Court and 10 years in District Court.

The Superior Court Bench and the Tacoma Pierce ...Read on...

Video News: Who is the USGA, an airman's surprise homecoming, spray park in Puyallup, and more

Pierce County News for the week of May 28, 2015.

• Rare for U.S. Open to be held on a municipal golf course
• U.S. Open preparations: View from the Trophy Club and U.S. Open security
  
• Who is the USGA? Learn about the history of the United States Golf As...

County leaders celebrate projects that improve juror comfort

Pierce County leaders kicked off Juror Appreciation Week (May 18-22) by highlighting several projects designed to make the jury experience more comfortable.

The Facilities Management Department recently completed a new outdoor patio next to the jury as...Read on...

Wings & Wheels rolls into Narrows Airport July 5th

The fifth annual Gig Harbor Wings & Wheels event will take place on July 5th from 11am to 5pm at the beautiful Tacoma Narrows Airport, located at 1202 26th Ave NW in Gig Harbor. The Title Sponsor for the event is USAA, and it promises to bring as much...Read on...

Local leaders join forces to plan for Chambers Creek Canyon trail

Leaders of Pierce County and the cities of University Place and Lakewood have agreed to work together to develop a trail through the scenic Chambers Creek Canyon.

The two cities have already approved the agreement. With the Pierce County Council’s unan...Read on...

Celebrate Tacoma Narrows Airport’s new observation area June 3

Aviation enthusiasts will have a new place to take in the sights and sounds of an active regional airport, thanks to Tacoma Narrows Airport’s new observation area.

A ribbon cutting ceremony to celebrate the new area, which will be known as the Rotary A...Read on...

County observes Memorial Day on May 25

Pierce County administrative offices will be closed Monday, May 25, in observance of Memorial Day.

Offices will reopen Tuesday, May 26.

Video News: J. Ladenburg on building Chambers Bay, environmental sustainability, and more

Pierce County News for the week of May 21, 2015.

• Former County Executive John Ladenburg on the decision to build Chambers Bay
• Chambers Bay construction update: grandstands and Grandview Trail closure
  
• Learn about the sustainability of Chambers Bay, f...

Pierce County Ferry offers extra weekday run June 15-19

Pierce County will offer an additional weekday run departing Steilacoom at 4:45 a.m. June 15-19 to support commuters during the U.S. Open Championship.

This run was added in anticipation of increased ferry demand and traffic in Steilacoom. The run may ...Read on...

Video News: Sneak peek inside Merchandise Pavilion, Golf 101, how to make a compost bin, and more

Pierce County News for the week of May 14, 2015.

• Sneak peek inside the Merchandise Pavilion at Chambers Bay
• Last public uses around Chambers Bay close May 26th
  
• Home Course in DuPont hosts U.S. Open local qualifier
• Voters will elect 21 citizens fo...

City of University Place U.S. Open Informational Open House set for May 19

The public is invited to attend the final City of University Place U.S. Open informational open house on May 19, from 6 to 8 p.m. in the Curtis High School cafeteria, 8425 40th St. W. in University Place.

This is the last in a series of numerous public...Read on...

Extreme tides will affect Pierce County ferry service May 22

Pierce County ferry riders in large vehicles and vehicles with low ground clearance - such as an RV, commercial truck or a vehicle towing a trailer – traveling to or from Anderson or Ketron islands for Memorial Day weekend should plan ahead to avoid extre...Read on...

Pierce County ferry to undergo biennial checkup

Just as doctors recommend annual physicals for their patients, the U.S. Coast Guard also insists on ferry boat inspections every two years.

One of Pierce County’s two ferries, the M/V Steilacoom II, will motor into dry dock on June 1 for its biennial i...Read on...

Executive McCarthy recruits retired transit chief to join Sound Transit citizen panel

County Executive Pat McCarthy has successfully nominated Don S. Monroe to represent Pierce County on the Citizen Oversight Panel that independently monitors Sound Transit’s commitment to voters.

Monroe served as Pierce Transit’s chief executive officer...Read on...

Tacoma-Pierce County Bar Association gives Liberty Bell Award to Talbert

Citing his dedication to outstanding public service, members of the Tacoma-Pierce County Bar Association (TPCBA) presented the Liberty Bell Award to Pierce County Councilmember Rick Talbert at the annual Law Day Luncheon on May 8.

“It’s an honor to be ...Read on...

Auditor seeks to appoint “against” committee members for voters’ pamphlet

The Pierce County Auditor’s Office is opening a special appointment period to recruit individuals to write “against” statements for the August 4, 2015, primary election local voters’ pamphlet in the following districts:

“Against” committee members needed

• To...

Open house on flood insurance maps planned for May 19 in Gig Harbor

Homeowners and businesses located near coastal areas have are invited to view updated federal flood insurance rate maps at a May 19 open house in Gig Harbor.

These maps, created by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), are used by property ow...Read on...

Councilmember Talbert uses award to draw attention to 2015 Heart Walk

The American Heart Association has presented its Gold Achievement Award to Pierce County. The award, given to Councilmember Rick Talbert during the organization’s annual breakfast on May 5, recognizes employers who champion the health of their employees b...Read on...

Candidates sought for Pierce County Charter Review Commission

At least every 10 years since it was first adopted in 1981, the Pierce County Council is required to call for a Charter Review Commission to examine the effectiveness of the county’s governing document.

In accordance with Resolution 2015-14, Pierce Co...Read on...

Puget Sound Starts Here Month challenges residents to protect local waters

Pierce County is teaming up with hundreds of organizations across Puget Sound to challenge residents to commit to at least one Sound-healthy action during May’s Puget Sound Starts Here Month.

“In Pierce County, we have many scenic vistas of mountains ...Read on...

Potential alternatives for Pierce County Ferry System to be presented May 14

Pierce County Ferry riders are invited to learn about potential alternatives developed as part of the ferry system’s Waterborne Transportation Study at a May 14 public meeting on Anderson Island.

Alternatives regarding schedule changes, fare policies a...Read on...

Pierce County News: U.S. Open Special - Media Day

Pierce County News for the week of April 30, 2015.

• Media Day details outside the ropes
• USGA unveils U.S. Open transportation plan, 21,000 parking spots
  
• Meet famous local golfers who played in past U.S. Opens
• See the new Chambers Bay video gam...

Puget SoundCorps to help restore habitat of wetland preserve

A Puget SoundCorps crew will remove Himalayan blackberry, English ivy and other invasive plants and remove trash from Pierce County’s Larchmont Wetland Reserve in Midland May 4 through 29. Getting rid of these invasive plants and trash will improve the he...Read on...

Learn skills to deal with initial diagnosis of Alzheimer’s

There is a brief time when the sky seems to fall in – from that period when people start wondering if they might have Alzheimer’s and the time they are formally diagnosed with the disease. That can be a horrifying time for individuals and families.

Pi...Read on...

Video News: U.S. Open transportation plan, famous local players, Tacoma Rainiers, and more

Pierce County News for the week of April 24, 2015.

• USGA unveils U.S. Open transportation plan, 21,000 parking spots
• Chambers Bay sets some all-time records in 2014 report
  
• Meet famous local golfers who played in past U.S. Opens
• Get an update on U....

Free classes teach residents how to compost food and yard waste at home

Residents can learn how to compost at home by attending Pierce County’s free classes this spring.

The county will offer a food waste composting class and a yard waste composting class, along with a class that teaches both techniques in one session.

...Read on...

Volunteers needed for open boards and commissions in the 5th District

Pierce County residents looking to give back to their communities have ample opportunities to volunteer, especially in the 5th Council District that extends from South Tacoma to 160th Street E. in Spanaway and east-west from Interstate 5 to Woodland Avenu...Read on...

Domestic Violence Awareness Day set for April 26 in Pierce County, Tacoma

The Pierce County Council and the Tacoma City Council have issued proclamations designating April 26th as Domestic Violence Awareness Day in Pierce County and the City of Tacoma. April 26, 2015, marks the twelfth anniversary of the tragic murder of Crysta...Read on...

Task force to dedicate DUI emphasis patrol to young victim

Tacoma Pierce County DUI and Traffic Safety Task Force will dedicate a DUI emphasis patrol this weekend in honor of Quinnton Dimmitt. The 17-year-old Franklin Pierce High School student was killed by an impaired driver April 25, 2014, as he drove to buy a...Read on...

Good planning makes travel accessible for all

Leisure travel is becoming increasingly accessible to people with disabilities and older adults. People can take safe, relaxing vacations anywhere in the world, but, as with any trip, planning is the key.

“Planning for Safe Travels” is a free, informat...Read on...

Public invited to learn about South Sound 911, plans for a new public safety communications center

Leaders from South Sound 911 and members of the Pierce County Council will provide briefings about the agency’s plan to build a new public safety communications center at upcoming public meetings around the county. Voters in Pierce County authorized the p...Read on...

Bill’s passage ensures future Pierce County ferry system funding

Pierce County officials are applauding the state legislature for passing a bill that aligns ferry system funding increases with inflation. Prior to Senate Bill 5307, revenue streams to county ferry systems were largely dependent on available state gas-tax...Read on...

Video News: Pierce County News Farming Special

Pierce County News for the week of April 15, 2015.

• Pierce County Ag: The Faces of Farming
• Extra fancy hot house rhubarb growing in Puyallup
  
• Dairy goats are a funny bunch at this Eatonville goat farm
• Sanford’s in Orting shows challenges of starting a new farm
• N...

Open houses on updated flood insurance rate maps planned

Homeowners and businesses located near coastal areas, rivers and streams can view updated flood insurance rate maps at three open houses in April.

These maps are used by property owners and federal, state and local agencies to determine standards for ...Read on...

USGA announces Parking and Spectator Guidelines for 115th U.S. Open

Far Hills, N.J. (April 15, 2015) – In its preparation to conduct the first U.S. Open in the Pacific Northwest, the United States Golf Association has released detailed spectator information that will assist anyone who plans to attend the championship.

...Read on...

Pierce County establishes in-lieu fee program to balance development and wetland protection

Developers working in two Pierce County watersheds have a new option to offset unavoidable construction impacts to wetlands and other aquatic habitat.

The county’s new in-lieu fee program provides developers in the Chambers-Clover Creek Watershed and a...Read on...

Chambers Bay set more fiscal records in 2014

Chambers Bay Golf Course set new fiscal records in 2014, even as it reduced the number of rounds played to prepare for the 2015 U.S. Open Championship this June.

The golf course, owned by Pierce County, set all-time annual records for average greens fe...Read on...

Pierce County ferry peak season fare rates take effect May 1

Peak season fare rates start May 1 for Pierce County ferry passengers that drive a vehicle or motorcycle onto the ferry. Peak season runs through Sept. 30.

Passengers driving vehicles 21 feet in length or less will see their fares increase from the non...Read on...

Pierce County CASA Program to host event at LeMay America’s Car Museum

Pierce County’s Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASAs) will gather at the Lemay America’s Car Museum from 6 to 8 p.m. on Thursday, April 16 to “Get the Word Out” about the CASA Program and the need for more CASAs.

CASAs are trained volunteer advocat...Read on...

Video News: County Code more accessible, museum goers have information at their fingertips, and more

Pierce County News for the week of April 9, 2015.

• Making the Pierce County Code more accessible, searchable
• Fee program to help County and developers rehabilitate wetlands
  
• Tacoma Rainiers baseball season kicks off April 17
• USGA’s John Bodenhame...

Pierce County moves code to the cloud, improves functionality and access for citizens

Now that the County has finished moving its online charter and code to Code Publishing, a Seattle-based Codification company, citizens and county staff will see and experience increased functionality provided through the new site. The overall responsibili...Read on...

Community invited to open houses for Pierce County’s Comprehensive Plan update

Pierce County has issued a draft Comprehensive Plan update package and invites the community to learn more about such topics as land use, transportation and regional parks at a series of open houses.

“This is the community’s opportunity to learn how Pi...Read on...

Milroy Bridge over Puyallup River to close April 15 for inspection

The Milroy Bridge over the Puyallup River at 66th Avenue East and River Road will be closed from 7 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on April 15 to allow crews to perform a detailed structural inspection and general maintenance. Motorists should use an alternative route ...Read on...

Pierce County CASA Program participates in Pinwheels for Prevention campaign

Watch for silver and blue pinwheels to appear around Tacoma and Pierce County. For the second year Pierce County’s Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) Program is planting pinwheels around town during April, which is National Child Abuse Prevention Mon...Read on...

Pierce County opens application window for Historic Preservation Grant Program

The Pierce County Landmarks and Historic Preservation Commission has opened the application process for the 2016 Preservation Grant Program.

Grant requests can be made for historic preservation or history-related project proposals. For stabilization, ...Read on...

“Healthiest nation in one generation” could begin with Pierce County

Members of the County Council unanimously approved a resolution Tuesday, March 31, proclaiming April 6-12 “National Public Health Week” in Pierce County. The measure is part of a broader effort to designate National Public Health Week across the country, ...Read on...

Video News: Flood Buyout Program, Daffodil Court, Chambers Bay agronomists, and more

Pierce County News for the week of April 2, 2015.

• Flood Buyout Program helps homeowners sell and move on
• SightLife celebrates Pierce County partnership with cornea donor appreciation
• Daffodil Royal Court honored at Pierce County Council meeting
• Trave...

County Council designates March 29, 2015, as Vietnam Veterans Day

Citing their respect and admiration for all Vietnam-era military veterans, members of the Pierce County Council unanimously adopted resolution R2015-39 at their March 31 meeting.

“So much was asked of our service members at a time when nobody could hav...Read on...

Daffodil royalty descends on the Pierce County Council

Amid a sea of yellow taffeta and silver tiaras, members of the Pierce County Council honored the 82nd Annual Daffodil Festival Tuesday and recognized the good work done by its ambassadors, members of the Royal Court.

Twenty-three Daffodil Princesses jo...Read on...

Councilmember Roach wants to give the people a say in proposed building

Pierce County Council Chair Dan Roach is proposing an ordinance that aims to accomplish what a private citizen has come under fire for trying to do: give the taxpayers a voice in the multi-million dollar decision to construct a new general services buildi...Read on...

Video News: Pacific Ave. demolition, Museum Pass, electric Zamboni, and more

Pierce County News for the week of March 26, 2015.

• WSDOT to demolish Pacific Avenue overpass in April for I-5 widening
  
• County honors 69 people who volunteer with departments
• JobFest in Tacoma to help teens and young adults find work
  
• Museum Pass gets...

County Executive adjusts airport security access to accommodate businesses

Pierce County Executive Pat McCarthy is adjusting the new security policy at the two county-owned airports after further consultations with pilots, tenants and other airport customers.

The county installed 24-hour gate security at Pierce County Airpor...Read on...

Family caregivers have resources to ease their work

Caregiving is the “new normal” in American families. People who need help – whether because of age, accident, debilitating disease, chronic health conditions or simple frailty – much prefer to remain in the familiar (and affordable) surroundings of home r...Read on...

Section of 72nd Street East closed March 28-29 for vault installation

72nd Street East between Canyon Road East and 66th Avenue East will be closed from 7 a.m. Saturday, March 28 to 7 p.m. Sunday, March 29 while crews install pipes under the road for a new stormwater filter vault. The vault will remove contaminants from sto...Read on...

Crystal Judson Family Justice Center earns Verizon Foundation grant

The Verizon Foundation has awarded $12,520 to the Crystal Judson Family Justice Center to fund mental health counseling and support groups for clients.

The Verizon Foundation invests in organizations that provide education, prevention, care and empowe...Read on...

Annual county roadside herbicide applications start March 30

Pierce County roadsides will get their annual makeover this spring and summer.

An initial application of herbicides to combat weeds along road shoulders will start March 30, and continue through June. Targeted noxious weeds and brush control applicati...Read on...

Learn about resources for extended care of a loved one

Whether the need happens suddenly or over a period of years, when the necessity for extended health care happens, knowing about community resources is a necessity. The worst case scenario is to have to make decisions about long term care in a crisis.
...Read on...

Pierce County Superior Court to host national jury management seminar

Jury administrators from around the nation are coming to Pierce County this month for a three-day advanced training seminar.

The Virginia-based National Center for State Courts selected Pierce County’s Jury Administration Office as the host after worki...Read on...

County Executive, department leaders honor dozens for volunteer service

Pierce County honored 69 individuals and seven groups for outstanding volunteer service last year to parks, public safety, courts and community programs on Saturday, March 14, 2015.

The honorees, selected through a nomination process, were celebrated a...Read on...

Pierce County Ferry riders invited to take surveys on ferry use

Pierce County Ferry riders are invited to take a survey during each of their sailings on March 17, 19, 21 and 22 to share information about their trip as part of the ferry system’s Waterborne Transportation Study.

The origin and destination survey will...Read on...

Video News: Comp plan public meetings begin, pro golfers play Chambers Bay, and more

Pierce County News for the week of March 12, 2015.

• County Council drops new building lawsuit, referendum process to continue
• Public meetings begin for Comprehensive Plan update
• Fife signs on for pet licensing and animal control services from Pierce ...

County Council designates Volunteer Recognition Week

Pierce County has two new award-winning community volunteers.

On Tuesday, March 10, the County Council recognized the special efforts and contributions of the recipient of the Volunteer of the Year award, Alan Hughes, and the recipient of the Special A...Read on...

Council passes shoreline regulations, sends final plan to state for approval

After years of tinkering, debate and listening to public input, members of the Pierce County Council passed a Shoreline Management Plan at the March 10, 2015, council meeting. Council Chair Dan Roach says he hopes it’s the end of what turned out to be a l...Read on...

Weekend events commemorate Puyallup man killed by driver high on prescription painkillers

This weekend, Christopher Michael Kerns will be remembered in Puyallup with a memorial sign dedication and DUI emphasis patrol. To some, the crash that killed Kerns on April 17, 2014 in Puyallup had all the telltale signs of a potential drunken-driving ca...Read on...

Video News: Farm Forum, sewer bill exemption, U.S. Open, and more

Pierce County News for the week of March 5, 2015.

• Pierce County Farm Forum connects farmers with consumers and purchasers
• New sewer bill exemption to help low-income seniors & disabled
• University Place establishes neighborhood parking restriction...

Lane restrictions for vault installation along 72nd Street East begin March 9

Motorists traveling along 72nd Street East between Canyon Road East and 66th Ave. East should expect minor delays on weekdays from March 9 to April 6 while crews install a stormwater filter vault. The vault will remove contaminants from stormwater runoff ...Read on...

Draft Pierce County Comprehensive Plan update is available for public review

A draft policy document intended to guide growth in unincorporated Pierce County over the next 20 years is now available for the public to review. The updated Pierce County Comprehensive Plan fulfills a state legislative requirement that is due by June 30...Read on...

Pierce County Council chair supports the citizens’ right to referendum

Councilmember Dan Roach, who chairs the Pierce County Council, has announced he’ll be proposing a resolution that would direct the county prosecutor’s office to drop a recently-filed lawsuit against a Pierce County resident.

The prosecutor filed a laws...Read on...

New translated forms will aid in Pierce County Superior Court functions

Pierce County Superior Court is pleased to announce several criminal case forms commonly used in court have been translated into Korean, Russian, Spanish, and Vietnamese. The court expects a significant portion of the public with limited English language ...Read on...

Farm Forum draws 200 people to boost agriculture business

Farmers, wholesalers, institutional buyers and technical experts gathered in Puyallup on Friday, Feb. 27, to share strategies and experiences for boosting markets for the local agricultural industry.

About 200 people attended Pierce County's second Far...Read on...

Look below the surface at Puget Sounds Like Fun Day on March 14

Learn what lives beneath Puget Sound and find out how to protect it at Puget Sounds Like Fun Day on March 14 in Vaughn.

This free family-friendly event runs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Key Peninsula Civic Center, 17010 S. Vaughn Road KPN.

“Puget ...Read on...

Video News: Farmland conservation, Chambers Bay video game, passport for pilots, and more

Pierce County News for the week of Feb. 26, 2015.

• Pierce County completes largest farmland conservation in Puyallup
• WSDOT prepares drivers for six miles of I-5 HOV lane work through Tacoma
• Volunteers needed on local Selective Service board for military...

Second annual bridal showcase comes to Pierce County’s ESB

Sunday, March 8, will mark the second annual Bridal Showcase at the Environmental Services Building (ESB) in Pierce County. The event is free to the public and will run from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Participants can tour the facility and meet with a variety ...Read on...

Community input sought for Aging & Disability priorities

Pierce County Community Connections Aging & Disability Resources (ADR) is initiating a process to gather community input for the creation of the 2016-2019 Area Plan. The Area Plan establishes funding priorities and the array of services that will be p...Read on...

Pierce County to extend animal services to City of Fife

Beginning March 1, the Pierce County Auditor’s Office will provide pet licensing and animal control services to all Fife citizens.

The City of Fife has entered into an interlocal agreement with Pierce County for services such as barking dogs, strays, ...Read on...

Video News: General Services Building approved, Chambers Creek Regional Park closures, and more

Pierce County News for the week of Feb. 15, 2015.

• County Council votes to build General Services Building
• Public closures coming to Chambers Creek Regional Park
• New volunteer opportunities with Pitch in for Parks
• Puyallup dedicates new spray park com...

Workshop offers keys to success with vision loss

Vision loss doesn’t have to mean the loss of independence or quality of life. With the right support, people who are blind or partially sighted can do almost anything a fully-sighted person can do.

“Living with Vision Loss” will provide practical inf...Read on...

U.S. Open championship-round tickets sold out; practice-round tickets still available

FAR HILLS, N.J. – The United States Golf Association (USGA) today announced that all championship-round tickets (Thursday through Sunday, June 18-21) for the 2015 U.S. Open Championship at Chambers Bay in University Place, Wash., have sold out. This marks...Read on...

14 businesses and homeowner associations recognized for excellent stormwater management

Fourteen local businesses and homeowner associations have been recognized for taking steps to reduce the amount of pollution entering Pierce County’s waterways in 2014.

These businesses and associations received Pierce County’s “5-Star Excellence in St...Read on...

Largest Farmland Conservation project in Pierce County history completed

Pierce County and Forterra ensured this week that one of the largest farms in Pierce County will be farmed for generations to come by removing development rights through a conservation easement.

Through a deal crafted by Forterra, Pierce County made t...Read on...

County Council approves new General Services Building plan

After years of planning, members of the <_http3a_ _www.piercecountywa.org2f_council22_="">Pierce County Council voted 4-3 on Feb. 17 to proceed with a major consolidation of county services into a new General Services Building.

Councilmembers Rick Talbert (District 5), Connie Ladenburg (District 4), ...Read on...

Crystal Judson Family Justice Center receives award for exemplary service

The Crystal Judson Family Justice Center received the 2014 Distinguished Organization award for exemplary service and support provided to domestic violence victims in our community.

The Tacoma-Pierce County Bar association presented the award to Cente...Read on...

County observes Presidents' Day on Feb. 16

Pierce County administrative offices will close on Monday, Feb. 16, in observance of Presidents' Day.

Executive McCarthy's statement about Senate transportation package

The following is a statement by Executive Pat McCarthy on the Senate's bipartisan transportation package announced on Feb. 12:

"I congratulate the Washington State Senate's transportation negotiators for reaching a bipartisan agreement on a tran...Read on...

Healthier Air: Pierce County reaches milestone

Efforts to reduce unhealthy wood smoke pollution in the Tacoma/Pierce County Smoke Reduction Zone area reached a milestone today when the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) approved a 10-year action plan and announced the area will be redesignated as i...Read on...

Pierce County announces park and trail closures around the U.S. Open

Building a “temporary city” for more than 200,000 people takes time, so Pierce County Parks and Recreation will begin closing portions of Chambers Creek Regional Park on March 16 as on-site preparations ramp up for the 2015 U.S. Open Championship at Chamb...Read on...

Video News: Property tax statement explained, North Meadow construction, and more

Pierce County News for the week of Feb. 12, 2015.

• Understanding your property tax statement
• Construction underway to make North Meadow parking lot bigger
• Juvenile Court Administrator talks new programs, abused and neglected kids
• County Council discus...

Boundary Review Board seeks applicants

The Pierce County Boundary Review Board seeks applicants for a vacancy on the quasi-judicial body that makes decisions on such issues as incorporations, annexations, mergers and disincorporations by cities, towns and special purpose districts.

The posi...Read on...

Auditor announces candidate filing period for Edgewood mayoral election

The City of Edgewood will hold a primary election for mayor in April and a general election in August. Candidate filings for the mayoral position will be accepted Feb. 23, 24 and 25, 2015.

Last November, Edgewood citizens voted to change their form of...Read on...

Sheriff's Community Academy openings

The Pierce County Sheriff's Department is looking for interested citizens to attend its winter Community Academy program. The University Place academy begins Feb. 19 and will meet each Thursday evening from 7 to 9:30 p.m. for 10 weeks. The South Hill acad...Read on...

Executive McCarthy statement regarding shutdown of ports

The following is a statement by Pierce County Executive Pat McCarthy regarding the announced weekend closure of West Coast ports due to a labor dispute:

"The impact of a shutdown will be devastating to thousands of people in Pierce County who rel...Read on...

Road work postponed on 66th Avenue East

Work requiring closure of a portion of 66th Avenue East south of its intersection with River Road (SR 167) previously scheduled for Saturday, Feb. 7 has been postponed. Pierce County road crews were scheduled to trim roadside vegetation that is encroachin...Read on...

Video News: Proposed General Services Building, Sumner bridge design, free tax help, and more

Pierce County News for the week of Feb. 5, 2015.

• Maximum price set for County’s proposed General Services Building
• Citizens comment on 18 amendments to shoreline regulations
• Sumner unveils design for Bridge St. Bridge
• Health Department warns of measles and...

Champion guest stars and local skaters featured in new ice show this weekend

Professional performers will join members of the Lakewood Winter Club to present the 2015 ice show "Reflections on Ice – Entertaining America!" from Feb. 6-8 at Pierce County's Sprinker Recreation Center.

Five performances are scheduled, and ...Read on...

Puyallup teen gets County Council support for awareness of heart defects

Zoe Cardwell was born with five severe heart defects, but the 16-year-old Puyallup resident considers herself one of the lucky ones.

“Congenital heart defects are all around us. You hear it in the stories of student athletes who have died with an undis...Read on...

Executive presents business plan for proposed general services building

Pierce County Executive Pat McCarthy has negotiated a development and lease agreement for a proposed general services building that would dramatically improve customer service while saving taxpayers millions of dollars.

If approved by the Pierce County...Read on...

Figueroa and Young elected to leadership of Rainier Communications Commission

University Place Mayor Pro Tem Javier Figueroa and Pierce County Councilmember Derek Young have been elected to lead the Rainier Communications Commission, which advises local jurisdictions on telecommunications issues and televises local government progr...Read on...

Video News: General Services Building, shoreline amendments, Cheese Shoppe, and more

Pierce County News for the week of Jan. 29, 2015.

• Public meeting shows South Tacoma support for County’s General Services Building
• County Council to take shoreline amendments to public meetings
• Find out which bills Pierce County is watching in this le...

County schedules community meetings on rural zoning adjustments

Pierce County Planning and Land Services has scheduled four meetings around the county to gather public input on proposed adjustments to some of the land use designations in rural areas.

The adjustment is part of the update to Pierce County’s Comprehe...Read on...

Selective Service System needs local board members

The Selective Service System is seeking applicants to fill vacancies on their local board. A Selective Service Local Board is a group of five citizen volunteers whose mission, upon a draft, will be to decide who among the registrants in their community wi...Read on...

Council to hold 4 hearings on shoreline regulations

Members of the Pierce County Council's Community Development Committee have scheduled four meetings around the county to gather public input on changes to proposed shoreline development guidelines required by the state.

These meetings will address 18 a...Read on...

Small claims now easier to file in Pierce County

Pierce County District Court has unveiled an innovative new way for customers to access court services online.

Citizens who wish to file a small claims case can now use District Court’s web-based Small Claims Kiosk application. Developed by District C...Read on...

Video News: Seahawks help boost local business, filing small claims online, and more

Pierce County News for the week of Jan. 22, 2015.

• Seahawks fever boosts Milton embroidery business
• Pierce County Council names January Human Trafficking Awareness Month
• Pierce County District Court makes it easier to file small claims online
• Skies ar...

Pierce County Juvenile Court wins coveted Annie E. Casey grant

Pierce County Juvenile Court has won a highly competitive grant aimed at reducing criminal behavior by elevating the voice of families in the Juvenile Justice system, improving the services and support to youth on probation and connecting youth with their...Read on...

County to expand parking at Chambers Creek Regional Park's playground

Pierce County will start construction Feb. 2 to more than double the number of parking spaces at the popular North Meadow area of Chambers Creek Regional Park in University Place to help meet high demand.

A new parking area with approximately 50 spaces...Read on...

Edible Gardens workshop series teaches gardening from seed to table

Pierce County residents can learn how to grow their own food during the 2015 Edible Gardens workshop series, which runs from February through November. The free series of monthly workshops, which are sponsored by Pierce County and the Pierce Conservation ...Read on...

Get out with the kids for PC Parks’ Friday Family Indoor Movie Night

Families looking for something to do with the kids during January and February can grab their blankets and kick back for an evening of fun at the movies, courtesy of Pierce County Parks and Recreation.

The first Friday Family Indoor Movie Night will ta...Read on...

County observes MLK on Jan. 19

Pierce County administrative offices will close on Monday, Jan. 19, in observance of Martin Luther King, Jr.'s birthday.

Video News: Youth shelter, flu season, Sprinker attendance, and more

Pierce County News for the week of Jan. 15, 2015.

• Pierce County to help fund youth shelter in Tacoma
• Dangerous flu season hits Pierce County
• Public invited to comment on proposed County general services building
• Fife welcomes new city manager
• Disco...

Interim traffic signal system to be installed at 94th Avenue East and 144th Street East

Work to install an interim traffic signal system and street lighting at the 94th Avenue East and 144th Street East intersection in South Hill will begin Jan. 20. Currently, the intersection is configured as a four-way stop.

Work is expected to be comp...Read on...

Urban Search and Rescue dogs to face final test in Puyallup

Canine heroes-in-waiting from around the nation will converge this weekend on a Puyallup gravel pit for their final trial. For those that pass the test, they'll receive coveted certification from the Federal Emergency Management Agency's Urban Search and ...Read on...

Pierce County Council chooses leadership, committees for 2015

Pierce County Councilmember Dan Roach has been re-elected as Council chair for 2015. The seven-member body voted for leadership positions and assignments on Council committees and other boards and commissions at the Council’s Jan. 13 weekly meeting.

Co...Read on...

Council proclaims January 2015 as Human Trafficking Prevention Month

Members of the Pierce County Council voted unanimously in favor of a resolution declaring January 2015 to be Human Trafficking Awareness Month.

The measured, passed at the Jan. 13 Council meeting, calls human trafficking a form of modern-day slavery an...Read on...

Volunteers needed for Pierce County’s annual homeless survey

The Pierce County Department of Community Connections and Tacoma-Pierce County Coalition to End Homelessness seek volunteers to gather census data of the homeless population and those on the verge of becoming homeless in Pierce County.

The annual surv...Read on...

Pierce County receives $2.16 million for road safety projects

Pierce County will receive $2.16 million in federal highway safety improvement funds to fund five road safety projects.

Pierce County is among 46 agencies across Washington that will receive more than $48 million in federal highway safety improvement f...Read on...

Study of Pierce County Ferry System underway

A study of the Pierce County Ferry System is currently underway to evaluate potential alternatives for the system, such as changes to the schedule and improvements to existing facilities.

During the Waterborne Transportation Study, Pierce County will a...Read on...

Public invited to learn more about proposed new county building

Three members of the Pierce County Council are hosting a public forum to provide local residents with another opportunity to learn about the proposed general services building currently under consideration. The meeting – arranged by Councilmembers Connie ...Read on...

Video News: JBLM welcomes the 16th CAB home, Madyson's Marshmallows, and more

Pierce County News for the week of Jan. 8, 2015.

• Uncasing welcomes home the 16th Combat Aviation Brigade
• Pierce County Council swears in new and returning councilmembers
• Free budgeting classes help average folks prepare for retirement
• Frederickson c...

Sheriff's Community Academy openings in University Place

The Pierce County Sheriff's Department is looking for interested citizens to attend its winter Community Academy program. A University Place academy begins Feb. 19 and will meet each Thursday evening from 7 to 9:30 p.m. for 10 weeks.

The academy is a...Read on...

Volunteer for Civil Service Commission

Pierce County is seeking applicants to fill a vacancy on the Civil Service Commission for Sheriff's Department employees. Commissioners are appointed by the County Executive and serve a six-year term. The commission is a quasi-judicial body responsible fo...Read on...

Roach praises choice to serve as 30th District state representative

Pierce County Council Chair Dan Roach says he’s pleased with the governor’s appointment of Carol Gregory to fill the vacant 30th District seat in the state House of Representatives. That position has been open since the death of former Rep. Roger Freeman,...Read on...

Inslee announces appointment of G. Helen Whitener to Pierce County Superior Court

Gov. Jay Inslee announced that he is appointing G. Helen Whitener to Pierce County Superior Court. Whitener is replacing Judge John McCarthy who is retiring after serving 18 years on the bench.

Whitener, who is originally from Trinidad and moved to the...Read on...

Pierce County Animal Services Advisory Panel seeks members

The Pierce County Auditor’s Office is seeking new members for the Pierce County Animal Services Advisory Panel (ASAP). ASAP is a diverse panel that provides recommendations and coordination with community partners for Pierce County Animal Control. The pan...Read on...

Derek Young sworn in, looking forward to service on County Council

One day after raising his right hand and taking the oath of office, new Pierce County Councilmember Derek Young says he’s humbled and excited to serve his constituents in the 7th Council District.

At the first council meeting of the New Year on Tuesday...Read on...

Learn how to use Social Security

Many options are available to individuals when taking Social Security. Each option has its advantages and disadvantages. Planning ahead is important to make the most out of the benefits available to people as they retire or as they need to claim disabilit...Read on...

Retirement for “average folks” will look different

If you look at advertising, it’s all about expanding your portfolio and enjoying the good life. While that may be true for some, most Americans will experience something quite different.

“Retirement for ‘Average’ Folks” explores what most people wil...Read on...