Lakewood City Hall and Municipal Court will be closed on June 19th in observance of Juneteenth Holiday
Lakewood City Hall and Municipal Court will be closed on Friday, June 19, in observance of Juneteenth. Regular business hours will resume on Monday, June 22. We honor this important day of reflection, freedom, and celebration in American history.
Lakewood City Hall and Municipal Court will close early on June 24 to allow employees to attend a staff recognition event.
Lakewood City Hall and the Municipal Court will close at 12:00 p.m. on June 24th, and will resume during normal business hours on the next business day. The City appreciates the community’s understanding as it recognizes the dedication and service of its employees.
Lakewood Business Showcase: Touchstone TMS
Touchstone TMS is helping expand access to innovative treatment options for residents throughout Lakewood and the South Sound. Led by Dr. Kris Peterson, Touchstone TMS specializes in providing advanced, FDA-approved therapies for individuals living with treatment-resistant depression, including Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Spravato treatment.
Located in Lakewood, Touchstone TMS combines cutting-edge medical technology with compassionate, patient-centered care. Their work provides hope for individuals who have struggled to find relief through traditional treatment methods, helping patients improve their quality of life and reconnect with their families, careers, and communities.
Beyond the services they provide, Touchstone TMS reflects the innovative spirit and commitment to community well-being that make Lakewood a great place to live and do business. By investing in specialized healthcare services and supporting the mental wellness of local residents, they contribute to a stronger, healthier community for all.
The City of Lakewood is proud to recognize Touchstone TMS as a Business Showcase honoree for its dedication to improving lives, expanding access to mental health care, and making a meaningful impact on the well-being of our community.
Juneteenth Celebration Returns to Lakewood City Hall on June 20
The City of Lakewood invites residents to join the 4th Annual Juneteenth Celebration on Saturday, June 20, 2026, from 3 to 5 p.m. at Lakewood City Hall.
Hosted by the St. Joseph–St. John Ministry of St. Mary’s Episcopal Church, the event will celebrate Juneteenth through music, dance, poetry, history, and community fellowship. Families, friends, and neighbors are encouraged to attend this free event honoring African American culture, resilience, and contributions to our nation.
Earlier this month, the Lakewood City Council proclaimed June 19, 2026, as Juneteenth in recognition of the historic day commemorating the end of slavery in the United States. Juneteenth marks June 19, 1865, when news of emancipation reached enslaved African Americans in Galveston, Texas, more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was issued.
The annual celebration provides an opportunity for the community to reflect on our nation’s history, honor the ongoing pursuit of equality and justice, and celebrate the rich cultural heritage that continues to shape our communities.
The City of Lakewood joins communities across the nation in recognizing the significance of Juneteenth and encourages everyone to attend this uplifting event.
City of Lakewood Receives Government Finance Officers Association Triple Crown Award
The City of Lakewood has been recognized by the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) as a Triple Crown Winner, an honor awarded to governments that demonstrate excellence in financial reporting and budgeting. The GFOA Triple Crown designation recognizes governments that earn all three of the organization’s highest honors during the same fiscal year:
• Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting
• Popular Annual Financial Reporting Award
• Distinguished Budget Presentation Award
The City of Lakewood is one of only 441 governments across the United States and Canada to receive the Triple Crown designation for fiscal year 2024.
The award highlights Lakewood’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and effective communication of financial information to residents and stakeholders. To qualify, recipients must meet the rigorous standards of all three award programs, each of which recognizes excellence in presenting financial and budget information in a clear, accurate, and accessible manner.
The Government Finance Officers Association advances excellence in government finance by providing best practices, professional development, resources, and research for more than 35,000 members and the communities they serve.
Lakewood City Council Recognizes Pride Month with June 15 Proclamation
The City of Lakewood recognized Pride Month during its June 15 City Council meeting with the presentation of an official Pride Month proclamation.
The proclamation affirms the city’s commitment to inclusion, diversity, and equal treatment for all residents while recognizing the contributions of LGBTQ+ individuals and families in the community. Pride Month is observed each June across the United States to celebrate the history, achievements, and resilience of the LGBTQ+ community.
City leaders are expected to present the proclamation during the council meeting, offering an opportunity for residents and community members to join in recognizing the importance of fostering a welcoming and respectful community for everyone.
The June 15 council meeting is open to the public and will be held at Lakewood City Hall. Residents interested in attending can find meeting information and agendas through the city’s official website.
Share Your Ideas for Safer, Better Transportation in Downtown Lakewood
The City of Lakewood is launching a Downtown Transportation Feasibility Study and wants to hear from residents, businesses, and visitors who travel through the downtown area.
The study will focus on improving safety, connectivity, and access for people who walk, bike, drive, and use transit in the downtown subarea, including the Lakewood Towne Center and Lakewood Transit Center areas.
Beginning this summer, community members will have opportunities to share feedback through online surveys, community events, and future open houses. Public input will help identify transportation challenges, safety concerns, and priorities for future improvements.
The study builds on previous community engagement efforts and will help guide future transportation investments and grant funding opportunities in downtown Lakewood.
Visit https://cityoflakewood.us/downtown_transportation/ for more information about the upcoming survey and ways to get involved.
Desserts on the Driveway Brings Community Together
The City of Lakewood’s Desserts on the Driveway series continues to connect residents with Mayor, Deputy Mayor, City Councilmembers, and city staff in informal, neighborhood-based gatherings focused on conversation and community engagement.
At the June 9 event held at the Tillicum Community Center, residents gathered with city leaders to share ideas, ask questions, and discuss neighborhood priorities ranging from traffic safety and parks to community programs and local services. The event provided an open and welcoming space for dialogue and strengthened connections between residents and city representatives.
Desserts on the Driveway is part of the City’s ongoing commitment to accessible, community-centered engagement and fostering meaningful conversations about Lakewood’s future. Residents from all neighborhoods are encouraged to attend, enjoy a casual dessert setting, and engage directly with city leaders about issues and opportunities in their community.
For more information and a full schedule of events, visit cityoflakewood.us/neighborhood-connections/
Custer and Oakbrook First Neighborhood Association meetings recap
Lakewood’s neighborhood associations are helping residents stay informed and connected through discussions on local projects, community concerns, and opportunities for involvement.
The Oakbrook Neighborhood Association held its first meeting on May 19 at Oakbrook Elementary School. Residents received updates on parks projects, including the Chambers Creek Trail and the City’s Legacy Plan for future parks and recreation investments. Attendees also discussed the potential formation of a voluntary Oakbrook Community Association focused on neighborhood events, improvement projects, and community-building efforts. Additional topics included adult family homes and ways to improve neighborhood communication and outreach.
The Custer Neighborhood Association held its first meeting on May 20 at Dower Elementary School. Residents learned about the upcoming Custer Road improvement project between Bridgeport Way and 75th Street and discussed construction impacts, traffic concerns, and communication throughout the project timeline.
Both meetings provided valuable opportunities for residents to learn about issues affecting their neighborhoods, ask questions, and engage with City staff and fellow community members.
Farmers Market and Summer Concert Series Continue Bringing Community Fun to Lakewood
The Lakewood Farmers Market continues its successful season as it heads into Week 4 on Tuesday, June 23, following several weeks of strong community participation, local flavor, and summertime fun.
Residents and visitors have continued to support local vendors while enjoying fresh produce, handmade goods, prepared foods, artisan products, and family-friendly activities. The market remains a popular gathering place where neighbors can connect, support small businesses, and experience the vibrant community spirit that defines Lakewood.
Each week offers opportunities to shop local, enjoy live entertainment, and engage with community organizations, making the market a destination for residents of all ages. The enthusiasm and support shown throughout the season have helped make this year’s market another success.
For market dates, vendor information, concert schedules, and event updates, visit cityoflakewood.us/farmersmarket/.
Summer Nights at the Pavilion Kicks Off with Infinity Project
The 2026 Summer Nights at the Pavilion concert series got off to a great start on June 16 at Fort Steilacoom Park. Following the Lakewood Farmers Market, community members gathered on the Pavilion lawn with lawn chairs, blankets, and market treats to enjoy a beautiful summer evening of live music.
Headlining the season opener was Infinity Project, a high-energy Journey tribute band that had the crowd singing along to classic hits and dancing on the Pavilion dance floor. The family-friendly event brought together residents of all ages to celebrate summer, music, and community in one of Lakewood’s favorite outdoor settings.
Summer Nights at the Pavilion continues every Tuesday through the summer, with concerts beginning at 6:30 p.m. and featuring a variety of musical genres. Residents are encouraged to stop by the Farmers Market, grab a snack, and enjoy an evening of free live entertainment at Fort Steilacoom Park.
Lakewood SummerFEST returns August 15! Get ready for a full day of fun, food, and special 30th Anniversary festivities.
SummerFEST is Lakewood’s largest annual community celebration, running from 11:00 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. and featuring food vendors, a marketplace, live music, cultural performances, family activities, and signature attractions such as the Bombs Away Car Show, aerial motocross, circus performances, and a variety of interactive experiences for all ages. This year’s event also celebrates Lakewood’s 30th anniversary with special commemorative activities throughout the day.
Registration is now open for the Bombs Away Car Show, part of Lakewood SummerFEST 2026, taking place Saturday, August 15 at Fort Steilacoom Park. Car enthusiasts are encouraged to pre-register their vehicles in advance at https://www.bombsawaycarshow.com/ba-pre-register.html
Residents are encouraged to save the date, explore registration opportunities for featured activities, and prepare for a full day of community, culture, and celebration at Fort Steilacoom Park.
For car show pre-registration, visit https://www.bombsawaycarshow.com/ba-pre-register.html
For SummerFEST details, visit NEARcation.com/summerfest
112th Street Closed for Safety and Mobility Improvements
112th Street between Farwest and Holden will continue to be closed to through traffic during workweek hours from 7:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M., for roadway improvements. This project will construct curbs, sidewalks, street lighting, and bike lanes on both sides of 112th between Farwest and Holden. The roadway surface will not be repaved.
Closing the roadway to through traffic will allow the contractor to construct both sides of the road, reducing the project timeline by 40% and completing construction by the start of the school year. The contractor is expected to complete the work in early August. Electrical material lead time will have the street lighting and radar feedback sign installation later this fall.
What Lakewood Residents Should Know About the 2026 FIFA World Cup™
The 2026 FIFA World Cup™ has arrived, and the Seattle region is welcoming visitors from around the world for this historic event. As matches take place in Seattle, Lakewood residents may experience increased traffic, heavier transit use, and larger crowds on major roadways and transportation corridors throughout the tournament.
Residents are encouraged to plan ahead by allowing extra travel time, staying informed about traffic conditions, considering public transportation when possible, and preparing for increased activity during match days and other World Cup-related events. While Lakewood is not a host city, its proximity to Seattle and key regional transportation routes means local travelers may still experience impacts.
The City of Lakewood will continue to share updates, resources, and travel information throughout the tournament to help residents stay informed and navigate the region safely and efficiently. Check the image below for the Seattle match schedule and important event dates.
Celebrate Safely: City of Lakewood and Lakewood Police Department Remind Residents About Firework Safety
As summer begins and the Independence Day holiday approaches, the City of Lakewood is reminding residents to help keep neighborhoods safe, clean, and well maintained while also celebrating the holiday responsibly.
With dry season conditions approaching, residents are encouraged to maintain their properties by keeping grass and vegetation trimmed and managed. Overgrown vegetation can increase fire risk and contribute to unsafe conditions in neighborhoods. Property maintenance requirements are outlined in the Lakewood Municipal Code, including Chapter 8.40 (Property Maintenance) and Chapter 8.52 (Vegetation).
The City also reminds residents that Fourth of July fireworks can create safety hazards when used improperly. The City of Lakewood and the Lakewood Police Department encourage everyone to prioritize safety, follow all local laws and manufacturer instructions, and use fireworks responsibly. Residents should always keep water nearby, never allow children to handle fireworks, and avoid attempting to relight malfunctioning devices.
Community members are also encouraged to be mindful of neighbors, including veterans, pets, and others who may be sensitive to loud noises. Planning ahead and celebrating responsibly helps ensure a safer and more enjoyable holiday for all.
If you witness unsafe or illegal fireworks activity, contact the appropriate authorities. In an emergency, call 911.
By working together to maintain properties and celebrate safely, residents can help make Lakewood a cleaner, safer, and more enjoyable community this summer.
Next Week’s City Hall and Community Engagement Events
The Parks and Recreation Advisory Board meets Tuesday, June 23 at 5:30 p.m. at Lakewood City Hall. The Parks and Recreation Board gives recommendations to City Council on parks and recreation-related issues. Attend online or in person https://cityoflakewood.us/parks-and-recreation-advisory-board/
The Fort Steilacoom Neighborhood Association meets Wednesday, June 24 at 7:00 p.m. at the Pavilion at Fort Steilacoom Park. Neighborhood associations play a crucial role in fostering community engagement and improving the quality of life in neighborhoods. More information: https://cityoflakewood.us/neighborhood-connections/
The City Council met on Monday, June 15 for a Regular Meeting and Study Session. You can watch or listen to the meeting below.
Whats on Deck: July 6, 2026, Regular Meeting, 7:00 P.M.
- Authorizing the execution of an interagency agreement with the Washington Traffic Safety Commission for the Pierce County Regional Phlebotomy Program (tentative)
- Authorizing the execution of an interlocal agreement with Pierce County for on-call building inspection services
- Authorizing the execution of a HOME agreement with Tacoma-Pierce County Habitat for Humanity for down payment assistance to be provided to low-income homebuyers at American Lake Townhomes affordable housing project
- Accepting a grant from the Office of Public Defense, in the amount of $34,000, SPAR grant
- Authorizing the execution of a facility use agreement with West Coast Baseball League Franchise
Each week Lakewood Police Chief Patrick D. Smith shares a summary of total calls for service for the prior week. The intent of the summary is to show a snapshot of how the department works to keep the community safe.
Calls for service statistics June 2 – 9
Calls for Service: 1060 (+15% from prior week)
Arrests: 46 (-2% from prior week)
Violent Crime: 32 (+19% from prior week)
Property Crime: 54 (+23% from prior week)
Traffic Stops: 127 (+17% from prior week)
Collisions (reportable): 19 (+27% from prior week)
Sign up for Lakewood Alert
Sign up to receive emergency alerts from the City of Lakewood through our new notification system. Lakewood Alert has a fresh look and a simpler sign-up process.
If you signed up previously, your contact information was saved to the new platform. Now is a good time to check and update your details if needed.
These alerts will mainly be used for emergencies where life safety is at risk. The system will also be used sparingly for non-emergencies like missing persons, traffic congestion, and extreme weather notifications.
When you register to receive alerts, you can select the types of messages and your preferred communication method. You can adjust these settings at any time.
Subscribe: Scan the QR code or visit CityofLakewood.Us/Lakewood-Alert
Updates for the week of June 18 – 25, 2026
*Please note the dates listed are tentative and may change due to weather or other conditions.
ACTIVE ROAD CLOSURES:
112th Street – Farwest to Holden: 112th Street is closed during the work week hours of 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. for roadway construction. Crews have sawcut the road, cleared existing vegetation, and excavated for the widening. In the coming week, storm drainage and electrical conduit construction will begin.
FINISHING UP CONSTRUCTION
112th St SW – Gravelly Lake Drive (GLD) to Bridgeport Way (BPW): Lighting poles were scheduled to be shipped in mid-August. The City was notified this week that the poles were shipped early and could be erected as early as the week of June 22.
UPCOMING CONSTRUCTION
Wadsworth/Silcox/Boat Sewer Extension: Work on the new sewer system is expected to begin in early July 2026. This will require full closures of these local access streets.
Custer Road – Bridgeport to 75th: This project will begin on August 1 and require approximately 60 days of full closure to remove the pavement, install utilities, widen the road for a new two-way left-turn lane, install curbs and sidewalks, and pave. Striping will be completed under a separate closure in October. A detour including Bridgeport Way and 75th will be in place during construction.
112th – South Tacoma Way to Steele Street: A resurfacing project along 112th Street between South Tacoma Way and Steele Street is expected to take place in July 2026. Most of this work will require full closures of 112th Street at night over the course of a week.
