Latest News in Tacoma, WA

New McDonalds Proposed for Tacoma's Pacific Avenue

A pre-application has been filed for a new McDonald’s at 3801 Pacific Avenue in Tacoma, proposing a restaurant with a drive-thru, 47 parking stalls, and stormwater management features. With an estimated project value of $1 million, construction is tentatively set to begin in June, following permit submissions in February. This expansion comes as several Jack In The Box locations close in the area and aligns with McDonald’s goal of reaching 50,000 global restaurants by 2027.

Bob Ferguson Appoints Kathryn Leathers as Head of Washington's Department of Retirement Systems

Gov.-elect Bob Ferguson has appointed Kathryn Leathers as the head of Washington's Department of Retirement Systems, which serves nearly 1 million public employees. Leathers, who previously served as general counsel for the governor’s office, will start her new role on January 15, focusing on sustainable retirement plans for state workers.

Bus Fire on Alexander Avenue Off-Ramp in Fife Causes Temporary Road Closure

A privately owned bus caught fire on the northbound off-ramp to Alexander Avenue in Fife due to brake failure, causing temporary road closures. Fortunately, there were no injuries reported, and the ramp has since reopened after Tacoma Fire extinguished the flames.

Tacoma Faces Closure of Over 350 Homeless Shelter Beds by 2025 Due to Funding Deficit

Tacoma is set to lose over 350 homeless shelter beds by June 2025 due to a $12 million funding deficit. City officials are calling on the state Legislature for financial support to maintain these vital resources for the homeless population.

Tacoma Faces Looming Loss of 350 Homeless Shelter Beds Due to Funding Deficit

Tacoma is facing a potential loss of over 350 homeless shelter beds in 2025 due to a $12 million funding deficit. City officials are calling on the state Legislature for support to maintain these critical facilities, which would impact nearly 400 beds across seven shelters and raise serious concerns for the vulnerable homeless population in the area.

Bus Fire Temporarily Closes Northbound Off-Ramp to Alexander Avenue in Fife

A bus fire on December 23, 2024, temporarily closed the northbound off-ramp to Alexander Avenue in Fife, Washington. The fire, caused by brake failure, was extinguished without injuries, and the off-ramp reopened later that morning. Tacoma Fire and Fife Police responded, confirming the bus was not a school bus.

Gov.-elect Bob Ferguson Appoints Kathryn Leathers as Head of Washington's Department of Retirement Systems

Gov.-elect Bob Ferguson has appointed Kathryn Leathers as the new head of Washington's Department of Retirement Systems, overseeing retirement plans for nearly 1 million public workers. Leathers, with a strong legal background, will start her role on January 15, focusing on the sustainability of the retirement system.

Shooting on Pierce Transit Bus in Downtown Puyallup Prompts Police Investigation

A shooting incident on a Pierce Transit bus in downtown Puyallup has led to an ongoing police investigation. Two suspects fired shots at a passenger but fortunately, no injuries were reported. The suspects fled the scene, and authorities are utilizing K-9 units and surveillance footage to aid in their search.

Puyallup Collision Injures Woman and Toddler Driver Arrested for Impairment

An 18-year-old woman and a 2-year-old girl were seriously injured in a pedestrian collision in Puyallup involving a vehicle driven by a 32-year-old man, who was arrested for suspected drug impairment. Both victims were taken to Tacoma-area hospitals for treatment.

Shooting in Downtown Puyallup Sparks Multi-Agency Investigation

A shooting incident in downtown Puyallup on December 22, 2024, led to a multi-agency police response. Two suspects exited a Pierce Transit bus and fired multiple shots at a passenger, who fortunately was unharmed. The suspects are believed to be under 18 years old, and police are actively searching for them.