Latest News in Tacoma, WA

Vandals take chainsaws to 200-year-old trees in Puyallup along popular trail, WDFW says

Vandals have been damaging 200-year-old trees along the Clarks Creek Loop trail in Puyallup, posing risks to visitor safety and the natural environment. The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife reports that the destruction has cost over $6,000 in removal efforts, and if it continues, the popular trail may be closed to the public. Authorities are urging residents to report any information regarding the vandalism.

New football coaches introduced at Gig Harbor, Peninsula high schools

Gig Harbor and Peninsula high schools are set to welcome new head football coaches for the upcoming fall season, with Jeff Scoma taking the reins at Gig Harbor and Clay Mauro stepping up from assistant to head coach at Peninsula. Both coaches bring significant experience, with Scoma previously leading Stanwood High School to notable successes and Mauro having a strong background from coaching in Nevada. These changes mark a new chapter for both programs as they aim to enhance their competitive edge.

A mini Point Ruston with 396 new homes, greenway planned in this Pierce County town

A new mixed-use development, The Cove at Chambers Bay, is proposed for Steilacoom, potentially adding 396 residential units and commercial space along Chambers Bay. The project aims to revitalize a long-abandoned paper mill site, with plans for greenways and parks, and is expected to significantly benefit the local economy. Public discussions and permit reviews are set to begin in the coming months.

Will this Pierce County forest turn into a mountain biking course? Heres what we know

PenMet Parks is planning to introduce new multi-use and dedicated mountain biking trails at McCormick Forest Park in Gig Harbor, following community feedback emphasizing the need for more walking and hiking options. While some residents express concerns about potential impacts on the park's natural environment, park officials are committed to public input and environmental stewardship throughout the planning process.

Puyallup has an 800 million school bond on the ballot. Early election results are in

Puyallup's $800 million school bond proposal is garnering significant early support, with 63% of voters in favor, but faces a critical turnout challenge as it requires a minimum voter participation to pass. The bond aims to address overcrowding in schools and improve infrastructure, including the construction of new facilities and the renovation of existing ones. As election results continue to be updated, the community remains engaged and anxious about the final outcome.

Pierce County woman guilty in pellet-gun death Man sentenced for stealing 9K clarinet

A 49-year-old woman, Nicole Lynn Johnson, pleaded guilty to second-degree manslaughter for the fatal shooting of her boyfriend, Ricky Albers, with a pellet gun during a domestic dispute near Graham, Washington. The incident, which occurred on May 1, 2024, was deemed a case of criminal negligence, and Johnson is set for sentencing on March 11, 2025. In a separate case, a 25-year-old man was sentenced for stealing a $9,000 clarinet and committing domestic violence-related crimes.

Tacomas piano in the sky to remain on roof of building serving a new musical purpose

Tacoma's historic Clinton's Music House site will be revitalized as the new home for Ted Brown Music Outreach, focusing on music therapy and education, while preserving the iconic "piano in the sky." The $850,000 project aims to create rehearsal rooms and classrooms, enhancing community access to music programs. This initiative continues the legacy of local music businesses dedicated to preserving musical heritage and providing instruments to students.

Nate Jacksons closed comedy club comes back to life in new location, with plenty of improvements

Tacoma comedian Nate Jackson is set to reopen his Super Funny Comedy Club in a new location inside the Courtyard Tacoma Downtown Marriott after its closure on December 31. The revamped venue promises enhanced features, including a larger kitchen and state-of-the-art audiovisual technology, aimed at improving the overall comedy experience for audiences. Jackson emphasizes his commitment to diversity in talent and audience engagement as he prepares for the grand reopening.

What should Tacomas newest bridge look like? And where should it be built?

Tacoma's Parks Tacoma agency is seeking community input on the design and location of a new pedestrian and bicycle bridge in Swan Creek Park. The project aims to enhance connectivity among surrounding neighborhoods and parks, with voting on the preferred location open until February 23. Community engagement is emphasized, with various design styles under consideration to ensure the bridge reflects local values and aesthetics.

Man fatally stabbed in Pierce County near tattoo business has been identified, ME reports

A 63-year-old man, Falealo Pulusila, was fatally stabbed near a tattoo shop in Fife, Pierce County, on January 31, with his death ruled a homicide by the Pierce County Medical Examiner. The suspect, Ioane Atonio, 31, has been arrested and charged with first-degree murder, currently held on a $1 million bail. Witnesses reported seeing a violent altercation between the two men prior to the stabbing.