The Tacoma Landmarks Preservation Commission is set to roll out the red carpet for the local heroes of heritage this month. Slated for May 22 from 6 – 7:30 p.m., the 2025 Historic Preservation Awards will take place at Urban Grace, spotlighting those going the extra mile to maintain the city's architectural and cultural character. Attendance is free, and the community is invited to cheer on the awardees, according to the City of Tacoma's official announcement.
This year's celebration rewards efforts in heritage preservation and introduces an award for neighborhood revitalization, which Ferguson Architecture clinched for its work on Willie Stewart Academy. The push towards sustainable preservation was recognized in the South End Neighborhood Council, along with Andrea Haug's stewardship of Charlotte's Blueberry Park. The Remembrance Gallery and Maritime Washington scooped accolades for broadening perspectives with initiatives like the Women on the Waterfront Series.
The spectacle of preservation doesn't end there. Housing, partnerships, leadership, and outreach are taking center stage. The transformation of 1109 North 7th St. into housing, Hilltop History's MLK Jr. Way Public Art Project, and Tamiko Nimura's in-depth look at Tacoma’s Japantown History are among the honored successes. Not to be overlooked, the Chinese Reconciliation Project Foundation's innovative preservation and outreach approach has also garnered notice.
The awards also spotlight businesses that have become cultural staples. Chalet Bowl, a longstanding alley of good times, is heralded as an Outstanding Heritage/Legacy Business. On the commercial renovation front, Comprehensive Life Resources' facelift at 737 Fawcett Ave. stands as a testament to marrying the old with the new.
