Lakewood City Hall and Municipal Court will be closed on July 3 in observance of Independence Day
Lakewood City Hall and Municipal Court will be closed on Friday, July 3, in observance of Independence Day. Regular business hours will resume on Monday, July 6.
Independence Day is a time for families, friends, and neighbors to come together to celebrate. The City of Lakewood encourages everyone to celebrate responsibly and safely.
Celebrate Safely This Fourth of July, Lakewood!
As Independence Day approaches and fireworks go on sale Sunday, June 28, the City of Lakewood, Lakewood Police Department, and West Pierce Fire and Rescue encourage residents to celebrate responsibly and help keep our community safe.
You can only use fireworks in Lakewood on July 4 from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Fireworks are not allowed at any other time.
With dry summer conditions increasing fire risk, residents are reminded to keep grass and vegetation trimmed and maintained. Property maintenance requirements are outlined in the Lakewood Municipal Code and help reduce potential fire hazards throughout the community.
When using fireworks, always follow local laws and manufacturer instructions, keep water nearby, never allow children to handle fireworks, and do not attempt to relight malfunctioning devices. Residents are also encouraged to be considerate of neighbors, veterans, pets, and others who may be sensitive to loud noises.
Reporting Fireworks Complaints:
Call 911 for fires, serious injuries, life-threatening emergencies, in-progress crimes, or any situation involving an immediate threat to life or property.
For non-emergency fireworks complaints or violations in Pierce County, residents can use FireworksReport.com from June 28 through July 7. Reports require the address where the activity occurred, along with the reporting party’s name and phone number. Reports are shared with local law enforcement agencies, which determine the appropriate response.
If a complaint is not eligible for online reporting, residents will be directed to call the non-emergency line at 253-287-4455.
Using FireworksReport.com for non-emergency complaints helps keep emergency and non-emergency phone lines available for urgent calls.
By celebrating responsibly and reporting concerns appropriately, residents can help ensure a safe and enjoyable holiday for everyone.
For more information on Summer safety in Lakewood, please visit: https://cityoflakewood.us/summer-safety/
Connect with City Leaders at Upcoming Desserts on the Driveway Events
Looking for an opportunity to meet your City Council members, ask questions, and share ideas about your neighborhood? Join us at one of the upcoming Desserts on the Driveway events.
These informal neighborhood gatherings provide residents with a chance to connect directly with City Council members and City staff in a relaxed setting while enjoying a sweet treat. Whether you have questions about city services, want to discuss neighborhood concerns, or simply want to meet your neighbors, everyone is welcome.
Upcoming events include:
- Downtown Neighborhood Association
- July 8 at 6 pm
- Redeem Church
- Lake City Neighborhood Association
- July 9th at 7 PM
- West Pierce Fire Station 22
- Tillicum Neighborhood Association
- July 14th at 6:30 PM
- Tillicum Community Center
- Oakbrook Neighborhood Association
- July 21 at 6:30 PM
- Oakbrook Elementary
- Desserts on the Driveway – Oakbrook
- Wednesday, July 29 at 6:00 p.m.
- Oakbrook Elementary
Desserts on the Driveway is a great way to stay informed, build community connections, and help shape the future of Lakewood. Event locations and additional details are available on the City of Lakewood website and social media channels.
We hope to see you there!
Experience the Art of Classic Cars at Lakewood City Hall on July 20th
Rev up your summer with a unique art exhibit celebrating the beauty, history, and craftsmanship of classic automobiles. From July 1 through September 30, Lakewood City Hall will showcase a stunning photography exhibition featuring captivating images of classic cars by local artists Anna and Armand.
Join us for a special Artist Reception on Monday, July 20, from 5–7 p.m. Meet the photographers, connect with local car enthusiasts, and enjoy an evening of art, conversation, live jazz music by Maureese Itson, and complimentary appetizers.
The reception is also a great opportunity for classic car owners to learn more about and register for the Bombs Away Car Show at SummerFEST, where participants can compete for awards in more than 38 trophy categories.
Whether you’re a photography lover, a classic car enthusiast, or simply looking for a fun community event, this exhibit offers something for everyone.
• Exhibit Dates: July 1 – September 30
• Artist Reception: Monday, July 20 | 5–7 p.m.
• Location: Lakewood City Hall
Admission is free. We hope you’ll join us to celebrate art, automobiles, and community!
Lakewood Farmers Market Continues Summer Season with Fresh Finds and Local Favorites
The Lakewood Farmers Market continues to be a favorite Tuesday destination, bringing residents and visitors together each week at Fort Steilacoom Park for fresh produce, handcrafted goods, and delicious food.
This week, we’re proud to spotlight Sidhu Farms, a family-run farm from Puyallup rooted in generations of farming tradition.
Known for their naturally grown blueberries, raspberries, blackberries, and strawberries, Sidhu Farms also offers award-winning low-sugar jams, golden honey, fresh vegetables, rhubarb, and more. Their commitment to farming without pesticides, chemicals, or synthetic fertilizers reflects their deep dedication to land stewardship and producing high-quality, flavorful food.
Stop by the Lakewood Farmers Market next week to meet the Sidhu family and take home some of their delicious berries, jams, honey, and fresh seasonal produce!
The Lakewood Farmers Market is held every Tuesday from 2–7 p.m. at Fort Steilacoom Park. For market dates, vendor information, and the latest updates, visit cityoflakewood.us/farmersmarket.
Groove Nation Keeps Summer Nights Rocking at Fort Steilacoom Park
The 2026 Summer Nights at the Pavilion concert series continued on June 30 at Fort Steilacoom Park with another memorable evening of live music, community, and summer fun.
Week 3 featured Groove Nation, a crowd-pleasing band known for performing Top 40 hits spanning multiple decades and genres. Their energetic performance had audience members singing along, dancing, and enjoying favorite chart-topping songs throughout the evening. The lively atmosphere brought together families, friends, and neighbors for another successful night of music and community connection.
Join us next Tuesday for Harmonious Funk, bringing an energetic mix of Top 40, funk, and R&B hits to the Pavilion. The free concert begins at 6:30 p.m. at Fort Steilacoom Park.
Lakewood Youth Summer Camp Registration!
Register today for the City of Lakewood’s 2026 Summer Camp! Designed for children to stay active, engaged, and have fun all summer long, this affordable program features exciting activities, games, field trips, and more. Camp will be held weekly, Monday – Thursday, from June 22 through August 6 at Idlewild Elementary School, with drop-off beginning at 8 a.m. and pickup at 5 p.m.
After registering online, families must complete and submit the registration packet to [email protected] or return it to Lakewood City Hall.
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.htm
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
Seattle Prepares for Final FIFA World Cup™ Matches
As the 2026 FIFA World Cup™ continues, Seattle is preparing to host its final two tournament matches, bringing thousands of fans, media representatives, and visitors to the region. Lakewood residents traveling throughout the Puget Sound area should be prepared for increased traffic and heavier transit use on match days.
The remaining match scheduled at Seattle’s Lumen Field is:
- Monday, July 6 – Round of 16 Match (5:00 p.m. PT)
Residents traveling to Seattle or using major transportation corridors, including Interstate 5, State Route 512, and regional transit services, are encouraged to plan ahead, allow extra travel time, and consider using public transportation when possible. Expect increased activity at park-and-rides, transit centers, and other regional transportation hubs before and after each match.
Although Lakewood is not a host city, its location along key travel routes means residents may notice World Cup-related traffic throughout the region.
As the tournament enters its final stages in Seattle, the City of Lakewood encourages everyone to stay informed, travel safely, and enjoy the excitement surrounding this international event. Be sure to check the image below for the remaining Seattle match schedule and important event dates.
July is National Vehicle Theft Prevention Month
The Lakewood Police Department is partnering with the Washington Auto Theft Prevention Authority (WATPA) throughout July to raise awareness about vehicle theft prevention and share simple steps everyone can take to protect their vehicles.
Vehicle thefts tend to increase during the summer months, but a few everyday habits can make a big difference:
- Always lock your doors and close all windows, even if you’re only away for a few minutes.
- Never leave your keys or key fob inside your vehicle.
- Remove valuables from plain sight or store them in the trunk before you arrive at your destination.
- Park in well-lit, well-traveled areas whenever possible.
- Consider using an anti-theft device, such as a steering wheel lock or vehicle alarm.
By taking these simple precautions, you can help reduce your risk of becoming a victim of vehicle theft. Follow the City of Lakewood throughout July for more safety tips and information from our partners at WATPA to help keep our community and vehicles secure.
Next Week’s City Hall and Community Engagement Events
The Lakewood Arts Commission meets Monday, July 6 at 5:00 p.m. at City Hall. Attend in person or online: https://cityoflakewood.us/lakewood-arts-commission/. The role of the Lakewood Arts commission is to assess needs, establish priorities and make recommendations for the enrichment of the community and promotion of its cultural vitality through the arts.
The Lake City Neighborhood Association meets Thursday, July 9 at 7:00 p.m., at the West Pierce Fire & Rescue Station 22. 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/
Notice of Public Hearing and Opportunity for Public Comment
Application Period Open July 1 – 31, 2026 for 2027 Comprehensive Plan Amendment Cycle
Changes to the Lakewood Comprehensive Plan, and some related changes to zoning code and development regulations, are allowable once per year under state law. As the first step in this process, the City of Lakewood invites interested parties to identify proposed changes. Afterward, the Lakewood Planning Commission and then City Council will review and confirm the list of amendments to be considered over the course of the year, including privately-initiated amendments. This list is known as the “Annual Comprehensive Plan Docket.”
Any individual, organization, business, or other group may propose an amendment. Applications to amend the Comprehensive Plan and associated Zoning Code provisions must be received by the Lakewood Planning and Public Works (PPW) Department online at https://cityoflakewood.us/permit-center/ between 8:30 am on July 1, 2026 and 5:00 p.m. on July 31, 2026. Proposals received after the deadline will be considered for inclusion in the 2028 Comprehensive Plan Docket.
For more information, please go to https://cityoflakewood.us/comprehensive-plan/ and/or email Tiffany Speir, Planning Division Manager, at [email protected].
The City Council met on Monday, June 15 for a Regular Meeting and Study Session. You can watch or listen to the meeting below.
What’s 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
- 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 SPAR grant from the Washington State Office of Public Defense in the amount of $32,500, for Indigent Defense costs for Simple Possession or Public Use of Controlled Substances
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.
Statistics for the week of 6/23 – 6/30
- Calls for Service: 896 (-6% from prior week)
- Arrests: 40 (+11% from prior week)
- Violent Crime: 23 (+21% from prior week)
- Property Crime: 49 (-11% from prior week)
- Traffic Stops: 68 (-24% from prior week)
- Collisions (reportable): 14 (-33% 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 July 2 – July 9
*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 completed lighting conduit and storm drainage. In the coming week, curb pours and sidewalk grading will begin.
Wadsworth/Silcox/Boat Sewer Extension: The project is expected to begin the week of July 13. More information will be given in the July 9-July 16 update.
Custer Road – Bridgeport to 75th: This project will begin on August 10 and will require an approximate 60-day full closure to remove the pavement, install utilities, widen the road for a new two-way left-turn lane, 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. Tacoma Power has completed the installation of poles on the northwest side of Custer Road, between Bridgeport and Burgess. Connections to businesses will be made during evening hours next week, after which Tacoma Power will remove its lines from the old poles. Communication companies will begin the relocation in the coming weeks.
Bridgeport Way – 75th to North City Limits: Pierce County Sewer contractor will stripe the roadway the evening of July 8. This work is heavily dependent on weather. The striping is minor in nature but will require lane closures to allow the striping to cure. One lane will be open in each direction.
FINISHING UP CONSTRUCTION:
112th St SW – Gravelly Lake Drive (GLD) to Bridgeport Way (BPW): Lighting poles were scheduled be shipped in mid-August. The City was notified this week that the poles were shipped early and that they could be stood up as early as the week of June 22.
UPCOMING 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 in the night hours over the period of a week.
