McKinley Overlook
Construction effort to beautify the overlook area along East 32nd Street, provide a public greenspace, and add safety features nearby for multimodal transportation.
Contact
Clara DubowÂ
Public Works – Project Manager
(253) 208-4161
cdubow@tacoma.gov
Project Background
The McKinley Overlook area near East 32nd Street and East F Street offers panoramic views of the city, Port of Tacoma, and the Tacoma Dome. In 2023, the McKinley Hill Neighborhood Plan identified it as an opportunity for an activated open space. Community feedback confirmed this, calling for a construction project to alleviate safety concerns and create a family-friendly recreation space. Key focus points of the design included:
- Making use of the viewpoint
- Promoting active transportation
- Improving safety and limiting vehicular speeding
- Reducing littering and illegal dumping
- Building a cohesive sense of community
Construction Overview
Construction began on August 19, 2024, and reached substantial completion in March 2025. Additional art/placemaking installations will continue through 2025. New features include:
- Planted landscape areas with a sidewalk pathway
- Interpretive signing
- Viewfinders
- Garbage cans
- Seating
- Lights
- Defined parking spaces
- Placemaking and arts (ongoing through Fall 2025)