The City of Tacoma has officially commenced the Tacoma Municipal Building Exterior Preservation Project, a critical initiative aimed at salvaging the historic structure from years of neglect and decay. The series of renovations will tackle the damage sustained over the decades—damage exacerbated by previous sandblasting endeavors that left the building’s cast stone facade more porous and therefore prone to rapid deterioration. This includes issues such as cracking, spalling, water intrusion, and organic growth.
According to the City of Tacoma's announcement, the restoration's price tag could top $20 million. The initial phase of the work has been funded to the tune of $4.5 million and will kick off on October 20, 2025. This first stage, focusing on the building's east and west facades, is slated for completion by the end of 2026. Despite the scaffolding that will soon envelop parts of the building, both entrances will remain accessible to the public and staff throughout construction.
Central to Phase 1 are a set of key interventions: cleaning and sealing of the cast stone, repointing of compromised joints, replacing irreparable stone units, reinforcing supporting angles, and removing patchwork to treat exposed steel. This preliminary phase is deemed crucial as it provides a chance to evaluate and adjust the strategies for the upcoming stages.
The civic duty to maintain and protect historical legacies like the Tacoma Municipal Building is reflected in the city's multifaceted approach to addressing the necessary funding. Alongside budget allocations, legislative requests, and grants are being pursued, with the State Heritage Capital Projects program among potential funding sources. The process also leverages the insights gained during Phase 1 to refine future work on the building's north and south facades.
Additional details on the Tacoma Municipal Building Exterior Preservation Project, including the preliminary project timeline, are currently available for those seeking more information on the city's efforts to preserve this emblem of their shared heritage.
