Steilacoom Boulevard will endure a lengthy closure for sewer repairs soon. A holiday drive-through light parade is coming up on Dec. 11, and a community cleanup on Nov. 6 & 7. If you’re behind on bills, assistance is available. Pierce County wants residents to participate in a survey about the future of work & the effects of COVID-19 on commuting. City Council held two meetings this week to discuss finances and legislative priorities.
Section of Steilacoom Boulevard to Close At Length for Sewer Repair
Work will begin in early November and may take three months.
Pierce County crews intend to begin repairs on the collapsed sewer beneath Steilacoom Boulevard in early November. This will involve a prolonged closure of Steilacoom between Lakewood & Bridgeport.
The sewer main beneath the roadway collapsed in July. A temporary bypass was established to maintain service. Crews will now perform a permanent repair of the main buried deep beneath the roadway.
Visit the Pierce County project page to sign up for email updates.
Rent, Mortgage, Utility, and Business Assistance Still Available.
Various relief programs may help residents and businesses recover from the pandemic.
Information on rent assistance, mortgage assistance, and home repair programs may be found on the City’s website. The statewide eviction moratorium expires Oct. 31.
The statewide utility shutoff moratorium is has expired. Customers may now be disconnected for nonpayment. Utilities may offer payment plans or other assistance.
Washington State Department of Commerce Small Business Flex Fund lends small businesses up to $150,000 in low-interest, no-fee loans.
Drive-Through Holiday Light Parade Coming to Lakewood Dec. 11
Businesses & organizations are encouraged to apply to build a display.
The City of Lakewood will celebrate the holidays with a “Parade of Lights” on Saturday, Dec. 11 from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Fort Steilacoom Park. Visitors will drive through a maze of holiday displays constructed by local businesses, clubs, and organizations.
Interested groups are invited to apply to build floats. Applications must be received by Monday, Nov. 29 at 5:00 PM.
How Has Work Been Affected by the Pandemic?
Pierce County “Future of Work” survey to assess technology & infrastructure needs of the future workforce.
The pandemic caused a 46.3% reduction in the number of trips over 5 miles in Washington State, as of August 2020. The pandemic necessitated telework, but if this shift is permanent, the county must assess if infrastructure and technology are adequate to support this new future.
Lakewood Events Uniting the Community
Bookmark the City’s events calendar to keep track of upcoming events.
Recent City events have been big hits: Truck & Tractor Day and the City’s 25th Anniversary Celebration drew big crowds.
Bookmark the City’s event calendar or import the calendar into Outlook, iCal, or other calendar apps.
Truck & Tractor Day Photos
25th Anniversary Photos
Upcoming Events
- Saturday, Nov. 6: Community Cleanup
- Sunday, Nov. 7: Community Cleanup
- Saturday, Dec. 11: Holiday Drive-Through Parade of Lights
CITY COUNCIL SUMMARY
The Lakewood City Council had two meetings this week: a study session on Monday, Oct. 11 and a special meeting on Wednesday, Oct. 13.
On the 11th, City Council met with the Arts Commission to discuss their 2022 work plans. They considered budget adjustments for the 2021-2022 biennium and discussed a very small property tax levy increase ($3.50 annually per household). The council then discussed the designation of new funds, including some programs to help grow small businesses.
On the 13th, City Council reviewed legislative priorities for 2022. The City intends to work with local, state, and national governments to pursue infrastructure improvements, recover from the pandemic, assist with JBLM land use issues, improve local transit, improve housing affordability, and support national defense.
COVID-19
- Virus Activity: COVID-19 is still dangerous. TPCHD implores vaccination, masking, and distancing.
- Vaccine Locations: The Towne Center Vaccine Clinic is open daily from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. at 10330 59th Avenue SW, STE B.
- Mask Mandate: Masks are now required in indoor public spaces and large outdoor events, regardless of vaccine status.
- Vaccines Mandated at Events: Effective Nov. 15, large events will require proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test for entry.
Roads
- Steilacoom & Lakewood: Sewer repair will resume on Nov. 1, requiring a prolonged closure of Steilacoom between Lakewood & Bridgeport. Traffic will detour North to Custer.
- Steilacoom & Custer: Various utilities are still moving overhead lines to new poles. Once complete, sidewalk work in this area will proceed. Expect occasional delays.
- Gravelly Lake & Nyanza: The new roundabout at Gravelly Lake & Nyanza should open in November. Afterwards, Gravelly Lake will open and Nyanza will close – read this update for specifics.
Parks
- Chambers Creek Canyon Trail will close between 7:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. Monday through Friday until further notice as Pierce County crews build a new bridge and improve the trail.
Notes
- Visit the Community Advisory Boards and the City of Lakewood Jobs pages for open volunteer and paid positions.
- Report problems and stay engaged with MyLakewood311, available on iTunes App Store or on Google Play.
- Keep in touch with the City of Lakewood by subscribing to our official email newsletters.