Keep Tacoma Parks for Future Generations
There’s a timeless idea often captured in a Greek Proverb:
“A society grows great when old men plant trees whose shade they know they shall never sit in.”
Older people plant trees not for themselves, but for the future. It’s an act rooted in hope-a way of leaving a legacy, investing in the next generation, and contributing to a world they may never fully see. In many ways, it’s one of the simplest and most powerful expressions of community-minded thinking.
That same spirit applies to how we care for our public spaces. Parks, trails, and community gathering places are the “trees” of a city-investments that grow, mature, and benefit people for decades to come. The choices we make today determine what future generations of Tacoma residents will experience.
Tacoma has long taken pride in its parks, and for good reason. From scenic waterfront trails to neighborhood playgrounds, our park system is one of the most valued and widely used assets in the community. Now, Tacoma residents have an opportunity to ensure these spaces continue to thrive for decades to come.
On April 28, 2026, voters will consider a $155 million bond measure designed to support and improve parks, community spaces, and recreational facilities across the city. The key detail: this measure does not raise taxes. Instead, it replaces an expiring 2014 bond, keeping the rate essentially the same while renewing investment in Tacoma’s future.
What the Bond Would Do
If approved, the bond would fund more than 100 projects across at least 40 parks and facilities. These improvements reflect direct community feedback and aim to enhance how people experience Tacoma’s outdoor spaces.
One of the biggest priorities? Better access. Residents consistently rank walking and biking access as the most important feature of a park. In response, the plan includes:
- Expanded trail systems and greenways
- New pedestrian and bicycle bridges
- Improved connections between neighborhoods and parks
But the vision goes far beyond trails. The bond would also support:
- Upgraded playgrounds, spraygrounds, and pools
- Renovated community centers and sports facilities
- Enhancements to iconic destinations like the waterfront and major parks
- Improvements to historic and cultural sites
- Updates to zoological facilities
- ADA accessibility upgrades to ensure parks are welcoming to everyone
There are also plans for major projects like the redevelopment of Dash Point Pier and continued investment in historic landmarks that tell Tacoma’s story.
What It Means for Homeowners
For most Tacoma residents, this measure won’t mean paying more. The estimated cost remains about $0.56 per $1,000 of assessed home value, which is roughly $25 per month for the average homeowner.
Because this replaces an existing bond rather than adding a new one, it’s essentially a continuation of the current investment, not an increase.
It’s also important to note that these funds are legally restricted to capital improvements only, meaning they go directly into building, upgrading, and maintaining physical spaces, not covering operational budget gaps.
Building on a Strong Foundation
Tacoma’s track record with park investment is impressive. The 2014 bond funded transformative projects that reshaped the city’s landscape-turning underutilized spaces into vibrant community destinations and expanding access to green spaces for thousands of residents.
This new proposal builds on that success, shaped by extensive planning, community input, and collaboration. If approved, funding could begin flowing as early as late 2026, with projects rolling out over the following six years.
A Higher Bar to Clear
Unlike many local measures, this bond requires a 60% supermajority to pass. That means broad community support will be essential to move it forward.
Nature Matters
Parks are more than just open spaces-they are essential to the health and identity of a city. Investing in them today ensures they remain vibrant, accessible, and meaningful for future generations.
- Health and Wellness: If your children have visited Tacoma Eye, you may remember Dr. Meers talking about time outdoors. Children spending 60, 90, or more minutes outdoors often have lower amounts of Myopia. Parks provide spaces for exercise, relaxation, and mental recharge-benefiting people of all ages.
- Community Connection: They bring people together, creating shared experiences and strengthening neighborhood bonds.
- Environmental Impact: Green spaces improve air quality, support ecosystems, and help manage urban heat.
- Economic Value: Well-maintained parks enhance property values, attract visitors, and support local businesses.
Tacoma has a legacy of showing up for its parks. This measure is an opportunity to continue that tradition, preserving what we love while building something even better for the next generation.
This Blog post was inspired by an article in Tacoma Weekly written by Whitney Stevens on March 18, 2026.