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Content current as of 04/09/25

Urban Design Studio

The Urban Design Studio (UDS) supports efforts to enhance and ensure a high-quality built environment throughout the City of Tacoma. At its core, Urban Design Studio work is centered on the commitment that design matters. Specific responsibilities include management of the Urban Design Project Review (UDPR) program and a portfolio of strategic advisory assignments with partners in the Planning and Development Services Department, other City departments, as well as external public and private groups.

The incorporation of “urban design” in the program’s title emphasizes the scope and scale of the program’s priorities and differentiate it from a design review program that is focused primarily on building architecture. The goal is to support a built city that is welcoming to all community members and visitors, enhancing our lived experience throughout Tacoma.

  • Permits will be required for larger developments located within any of the City’s 16 designated Mixed-Use Centers (see map below).
  • The largest developments will be subject to the highest level of review (through a new, Council-appointed Urban Design Board) while smaller projects will receive administrative review.
  • Building size thresholds within Neighborhood Centers are lower than those of the other Mixed-Use Centers (Downtown, Tacoma Mall and Crossroads Centers).
  • All levels of review will include public notice and opportunities for comment. Board-level reviews will include one public meeting at the Concept Design stage.
  • NOTE: The areas where this Urban Design Project Review will be required are not those subject to the changes being made with the Home in Tacoma program.

Contact

Stephen Antupit, Senior Planner
(253) 381-5195
SAntupit@tacoma.gov

Carl Metz, Senior Planner
(253) 290-3946
CMetz@tacoma.gov

Urban Design Project Review

Urban Design Project Review (UDPR) permit process consists of Administrative and Urban Design Board review paths. Urban Design Studio staff manages all aspects of the UDPR program.
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Urban Design Board

The Urban Design Studio provides staff support to the Urban Design Board, including its decision-making authority as part of the Urban Design Project Review permit process.
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Additional Work

Equal to the regulatory function of the UDPR program, UDS is charged with providing strategic urban design expertise as part of key City policies, programs, and related projects. These assignments include support for Tacoma’s Neighborhood Planning Program, Comprehensive Planning, Current Planning, Office of Arts and Cultural Vitality, and Public Works Department. More specifically, this has included co-managing the Residential Infill Pilot Program, the ADU Accelerator, conceptual design support for streetscape and public space projects, redevelopment site strategies, and public art master planning.

Learn About Urban Design

Contact

Stephen Antupit, Senior Planner
(253) 381-5195
SAntupit@tacoma.gov

Carl Metz, Senior Planner
(253) 290-3946
CMetz@tacoma.gov