Tacoma receives Healthy Communities Awards

The Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department recognized the City of Tacoma's Planning and Development Services, Environmental Services, and the Town of Steilacoom with the Healthy Communities Award for their exemplary contributions to community health in 2024. The Planning and Development Services was commended for the McKinley Overlook neighborhood plan, which enhances public greenspace and promotes active transportation while improving safety and reducing littering. Environmental Services received praise for its educational street murals, which inform the public about stormwater management and strengthen community identity in underserved neighborhoods. The Town of Steilacoom's Parks, Trails, and Active Transportation web map encourages residents to engage with local recreational opportunities and ensures safer routes for pedestrians. These initiatives reflect a broader commitment to addressing social, economic, and environmental factors that influence health outcomes.

Board of Health Chair Joe Bushnell emphasized the importance of such community-driven efforts in protecting the well-being of residents. The awards were presented virtually during the Pierce County Regional Council General Assembly on February 20, underscoring the collaborative spirit of local governance. For more information on healthy communities, visit tpchd. org/healthycommunities.