Tacoma is a vibrant city known for its rich history, diverse culture, and stunning natural beauty. Located along Puget Sound’s Commencement Bay with Mount Rainier as a backdrop, Tacoma is the second largest city in Puget Sound and the third largest in Washington state. The city is an interesting blend of urban lifestyle coupled with outdoor adventure. As the hub of economic activity in Pierce County, Tacoma benefits from its location, making it a key transportation and logistics center. The city’s robust economy is driven by key sectors including Maritime and Transportation, The Creative Economy, and higher education including multiple private and public universities and colleges.

“A thriving economy must be cultivated with intention. It’s the result of strong partnerships, strategic investment, and a shared vision for inclusive growth,” said Mayor Victoria Woodards.

Earlier this year, the City of Tacoma welcomed a new economic development leader in Tanja Carter.  As the Community & Economic Development Department Director, Carter is driving her team’s focus on creating an environment for business and investment to thrive.  This includes a focus on placemaking to attract workforce as well as driving an economic backbone which is centered on three dynamic zones:

The first zone is focused on mixed use development in the Downtown and Tacoma Mall areas.  Tacoma recognizes that investing in regional growth centers is an efficient way to operate.  “In this uncertain environment, we need to be in alignment with our partners and use all our resources to create a ‘pebble in a pond’ effect where concentrated development ripples outward and becomes the catalyst for expansion,” said Carter.

The second area of focus is manufacturing/industrial, specifically in the Port District (Tideflats) and Nalley Valley.  The Tideflats is a 5,000-acre subarea on Commencement Bay.  Several hundred businesses operate there, contributing to industrial, manufacturing, and maritime activities and employing thousands of people.  The Nalley Valley is an area historically significant as the location of Nalley’s Fine Foods factory. It’s generally understood to be bordered by Union Avenue to the west, Hwy 16 to the east, Center Street to the north, and an area just north of 35th Street to the south. As the major arterial running through the eastern edge of the Nalley Valley, South Tacoma Way serves as a large commercial and retail area with many auto-related businesses.

The third focus area is the multiple neighborhood business districts located throughout the city.  According to Carter, “Our priority is to continue to build relationships with the property owners and their business tenants to work together and revitalize these unique areas in the city that contribute to Tacoma’s rich personality.”

Examples of some of the neighborhood business districts are:

Lincoln International Business District:  Known for its Asian-influenced public art and the presence of neighborhood grocers, specialty retailers, and restaurants.

Old Town: Historic businesses near a bustling waterfront, offering a charming and unique atmosphere.

Proctor District: Popular neighborhood with a density of shops, restaurants, and community events.

South Tacoma: Active district with many auto-related businesses and a vibrant restaurant and nightlife.

Tacoma’s economic priorities focus on inclusive growth, supporting key industries, and fostering a vibrant, livable city. The city aims to leverage its relationships with its economic partners, create an environment that grows existing business, attracts workforce and new business, as well as enhance the city’s unique cultural assets.

“As a city, we’re proud to work alongside the Economic Development Board to create an environment where businesses can grow, innovation is welcomed, and opportunity is within reach for everyone in our community,” said Mayor Woodards.

Photo Provided by the City of Tacoma