The City of Tacoma, Parks Tacoma, the Puyallup Tribe of Indians, the Port of Tacoma, and the Center for Urban Waters at the University of Washington Tacoma have been working side by side as a regional coalition to better coordinate efforts to improve the ecological health and operational future of Commencement Bay. Recognizing that a resilient natural environment is the foundation for a strong waterfront, these five partners have discussed ways to address severe climate pressures while protecting the bay as an essential economic and cultural anchor.
The coalition is inviting community members to an open house during PNW Climate Week. Scheduled for Wednesday, July 15, from 5 – 7 p.m. at the Owen Beach Pavilion (5605 Owen Beach Road in Tacoma), this event provides a direct opportunity for community members to review draft concepts and provide the feedback necessary to shape the final master plan.
The process to develop the Commencement Bay Restoration and Resilience Master Plan (CBRRMP) formally began in the spring of 2025, funded by a National Fish and Wildlife Foundation coastal resilience grant awarded to the City in 2023. Following an October 2025 workshop that evaluated regional, state, and federal priorities, the project team compiled localized climate data to provide a more comprehensive look at the shoreline’s vulnerability to habitat loss, sea level rise, intensifying storms, and erosion. Building on this rigorous data analysis, alongside initial operational insights gathered this past June from waterfront property owners, the partners have developed a series of preliminary, nature-based conceptual designs for priority sites.
Public input gathered at the July 15 event is a crucial step in evaluating and refining these early designs before the master plan moves toward completion. Attendees will be able to explore the bay’s history, evaluate the draft site concepts at interactive stations, and engage in an open, transparent dialogue with the project team and City staff.
The evening is designed as a welcoming, accessible gathering for everyone, featuring all-ages activities, kids’ programming, and complimentary food and prizes. No registration is required to attend this free event and community members seeking more information are encouraged to visit the City’s website or email sustainability@tacoma.gov.