The City of Tacoma is launching the Tacoma Municipal Building Exterior Preservation Project, a multi-phase effort to address decades of deterioration and preserve the building’s historic structure.
The building’s exterior has undergone multiple assessments to identify cleaning and preservation needs. Before the City acquired the property, the building was sandblasted several times, which removed the smooth finish from the cast stone and made it more porous. This has led to accelerated deterioration, including cracking, spalling, water intrusion, and organic growth.
Full refurbishment of the building exterior is expected to exceed $20 million.
To manage the extensive scope of work, the project will be completed in phases. The City has allocated $4.5 million for Phase 1, which is scheduled to begin on October 20, 2025. Phase 1 is expected to be completed by the end of 2026.
Phase 1 will focus on the most critical areas, starting with the east facade (St. Helens Avenue) followed by the west facade (Market Street). Key work elements include:
- Cleaning and sealing the cast stone
- Repointing joints with cracked or missing mortar
- Replacing and resetting displaced or beyond-repair cast stone units
- Preserving and reinforcing supporting shelf angles
- Removing old patchwork and treating exposed steel
Scaffolding will be installed when work begins for pedestrian safety. The scaffolds will be one story in height, not cover the entire building facade, and remain in place for the duration of Phase 1. Both building entrances will remain open, ensuring uninterrupted access for staff and the public.
Lessons learned during Phase 1 will be used to refine the scope, methods, timelines, and cost estimates for subsequent work. Phase 2 will prioritize cleaning and preservation of the north and south facades.
The City will continue to pursue funding for future phases through its budgeting process, legislative requests, and grants, including State Heritage Capital Projects program grants.
More information about the Tacoma Municipal Building Exterior Preservation Project, including a high-level project schedule, is available here.