Members of the Lakewood City Council from 1996 cut a blue ribbon at People's Plaza to celebrate the incorporation of the city and its first "city hall". Gen. Bill Harrison is in the front with Dr. Claudia Thomas. Both served as Mayor for the city over the course of their time with the city.

Celebrating our ‘Golden’ birthday

Members of the Lakewood City Council from 1996 cut a blue ribbon at People's Plaza to celebrate the incorporation of the city and its first "city hall". Gen. Bill Harrison is in the front with Dr. Claudia Thomas. Both served as Mayor for the city over the course of their time with the city.

March 1, 2024

Twenty-eight years ago on Feb. 28, 1996, the City of Lakewood officially became a city. Voters approved the incorporation effort in 1995 after previous failed attempts.

At the time of its formation Lakewood was the seventh-largest city in the state and the second-largest city in Pierce County behind Tacoma. Today it is still the second largest in Pierce County and is the 20th largest city in the state.

Lakewood is home to nearly 64,000 people, and is proud to boast one of the most diverse populations in Washington – making it a majority minority community.

We give thanks to the leaders who stepped up more than three decades ago to make cityhood a reality and for the countless hours they put it to make it a success.

Today’s City Council remains focused on creating a place to live that is safe, that prioritizes youth and families and that offers a diverse economic base.

Learn more about Lakewood’s history, including how Lakewood once served as hunting and gathering grounds for the Nisqually people and other area tribes, on our website.