Youth Council Interns Attend National Prevention Conference
Two Youth Council interns will join Human Services Coordinator Shannon Bennett for a trip to Orlando, Florida, to attend the Community Anti-Drug Coalitions of America Mid-Year Training Institute. This national conference offers hands-on youth prevention and leadership training focused on substance misuse, community wellness, and strategies that help young people drive positive change.
The interns’ and Shannon’s attendance is generously sponsored by Lakewood’s CHOICE, the City’s community coalition dedicated to preventing youth substance misuse and promoting healthy, drug-free communities, which supports their participation in this important learning opportunity.
The team will return with insights to strengthen the City’s youth initiatives and inform recommendations for the use of State Opioid Settlement funds. They will also share photos, videos, and key takeaways from their experience.
Experience the Art of Classic Cars at Lakewood City Hall on July 20
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!
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:
- 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!
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].
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, delicious food, and locally made products.
Whether you’re shopping for seasonal fruits and vegetables, picking up fresh baked goods, enjoying a meal from one of the food vendors, or browsing artisan crafts, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Every week features a unique mix of vendors, making each visit a little different.
Join us Tuesdays from 2–7 p.m. at Fort Steilacoom Park to support local farmers, makers, and small businesses while enjoying one of Lakewood’s favorite summer traditions.
For market dates, vendor information, and the latest updates, visit cityoflakewood.us/farmersmarket.
Another Memorable Summer Night at the Pavilion
Another beautiful summer evening brought the community together on July 7 as the 2026 Summer Nights at the Pavilion concert series continued at Fort Steilacoom Park.
Week 4 featured Harmonious Funk, who kept the energy high with a fun mix of Top 40, funk, and R&B favorites. From the first song to the last, the crowd was on its feet dancing, singing along, and enjoying a great night of live music. Families, friends, and neighbors gathered with lawn chairs, blankets, and picnic dinners, making the most of another memorable evening at the Pavilion.
The fun continues next Tuesday with Beat Frequency, a talented group of musicians featuring contestants from The Voice. Bring your family and friends and enjoy another free evening of live music at the Pavilion. The 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.
Click Here to Register
Click Here for the Registration Packet
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
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 Tillicum/Woodbrook Neighborhood Association meets on Tuesday, July 14, at 6:30 p.m. at the Tillicum Community Center. Neighborhood associations play a crucial role in fostering community engagement and improving quality of life. More information: https://cityoflakewood.us/neighborhood-connections/
The Lakewood Planning Commission meets on Wednesday, July 15 at 6:30 p.m. at City Hall. The Commission assists in preparing the Comprehensive Plan, zoning, and land use related regulations for the City. Attend in person or online: https://cityoflakewood.us/planning-commission/
Community Partner Events and Happenings
August 4 Primary Election: What Lakewood Voters Need to Know
The August 4, 2026, Primary Election is approaching, and the City of Lakewood encourages residents to make a plan to vote. Ballots will be mailed beginning July 14, and registered voters will automatically receive a ballot by mail.
Depending on your residence, your ballot may include races for federal, state, county, and judicial offices, as well as local contests and measures. Ballots must be returned by 8 p.m. on Tuesday, August 4.
Washington is a vote-by-mail state, and voters are encouraged to return their ballots early. Official ballot drop boxes will be open beginning July 14. Voters can also sign up to track their ballot through VoteWA.gov.
For more information about the election, including what’s on your ballot, voter registration deadlines, ballot drop box locations, and election results, visit the Pierce County Elections website.
Notice of Public Hearing and Opportunity for Public Comment
2026 Annual Development Regulation Amendment Package
The Lakewood Planning Commission will be holding a public hearing for the 2026 Annual Development Regulation Amendment Package on July 29, 2026 at 6:30 pm.
Public testimony for public hearings are accepted via mail, email or live during the meeting either in person or via ZOOM. Written comments should be sent to Karen Devereaux, Planning Commission Clerk, at 6000 Main Street SW Lakewood, WA 98499 or [email protected]. Written comments received before noon on July 29 will be provided to the Commission electronically that day.
• HEARING DATE: July 29, 2026
• TIME: 6:30 pm
• PLACE: Lakewood City Hall Council Chambers, 6000 Main St SW, Lakewood, WA 98499
Directions on how to provide testimony live during the hearing will be provided at https://cityoflakewood.us/planning-commission/ on the first sheet of the July 29 meeting materials.
A brief description of the amendments is included below:
Amendment 1. Replacing multiple specific land use type tables in various sections of LMC Chapter 18A.40 with one single consolidated table for ease of reference and navigation and updating certain Open Space and Recreation (OSR) use setback standards.
Amendment 2. Amend LMC Chapters 17.22 and 17.38 to include both short subdivision and boundary line adjustment regulations as appropriate.
For further information, please contact Tiffany Speir, Planning Division Manager, City of Lakewood, at [email protected].
The City Council met on Monday, July 6 for a Regular. You can watch or listen to the meeting below.
What’s on Deck:
July 13, 2026, Study Session, 7:00 P.M.
- Joint Lodging Tax Advisory Committee meeting
- Joint Parks and Recreation Advisory Board meeting
- 2026 Utility Signal Box Wrap Project Update
- Review of 1st Quarter (2026) Financial Report
- Review of Resolution of intent regarding the Unified Regional Approach (URA) to Homelessness
July 20, 2026, Regular Meeting and Study Session, 6:00 P.M. (Tentative Topics)
- Authorizing the execution of an addendum to the agreement with Olson Brothers Pro-Vac for surface water cleaning and inspection services
- Authorizing the execution of an interlocal agreement with Pierce County for on-call building inspection services
- Accepting a grant from the Defense Community Compatibility Account (DCCA), in the amount of $873,000, for the North Clear Zone Project demolition of Tactical Tailor building
- Authorizing the execution of an agreement for the replacement of a section of the roof at Lakewood City Hall
- Authorizing the execution of an amendment to the agreement with McDonald Miller
- Authorizing the execution of an amendment to the agreement with Graham Baba Architects for redesign, costing and schedule extension for the H-Barn project
- Accepting a grant from the Office of Public Defense, in the amount of $5,000, for public defense services
- Resolution expressing intent and commitment to work with other Pierce County governments to launch a Unified Regional Approach to Homelessness (URA); direct the City Manager to work collaboratively with other Pierce County governments to develop an interlocal agreement; and to make progress in addressing homelessness by taking certain actions while agreement(s) are in development
- Items for Discussion – Review of 2nd Quarter (2026) Police Report
- Items for Discussion – Review of Automated Traffic Safety Camera Program
- Items for Discussion – Downtown Transportation Feasibility Study: Status Update & Preliminary Alternatives
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 June 30 – July 7
- Calls for Service: 964 (-3% from prior week)
- Arrests: 31 (-23% from prior week)
- Violent Crime: 10 (-57% from prior week)
- Property Crime: 44 (-21% from prior week)
- Traffic Stops: 119 (+43% from prior week)
- Collisions (reportable): 17 (+13% 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 9 – July 16
*Please note the dates listed are tentative and may change due to weather or other conditions.
Grant & Orchard Sewer Extension:
This project has reached substantial completion. The contractor is working to complete punch list items as the project progresses through the closeout process.
112th – Gravelly Lake Drive to Bridgeport Way:
This project has reached substantial completion and is progressing through the closeout process.
Nyanza Rd Roundabout – Gravelly Lake Drive:
This project has reached substantial completion and is in the closeout process.
112th St SW – Farwest to Holden (Lake Louise Sidewalk Improvements):
The contractor has placed concrete curb and gutter on the south side of 112th St SW and continues grading for the north-side curb. Crews are expected to begin placing concrete sidewalk and driveway entrances on the south side of the road on Monday, July 13. 112th St SW remains closed during working hours, Monday through Friday; the road is open in the evenings and on weekends and holidays. Detour signage is in place.
Silocx/Wadsworth/Boat Sewer Extension:
The contractor is expected to mobilize to the site on Monday, July 13. Once mobilized, the asphalt on the east side of the project limits will be pulverized and left in place as the contractor begins sewer pipe and structure installations. Flyers were handed out to residents in the project vicinity today. Sewer installations are expected to take approximately two months, with road restoration occurring immediately after the pipe work concludes. The first phase of the project will include road closures of W Thorne Lane (between Portland Ave and Woodlawn St) and Silcox Dr (from W Thorne Lane to the private road east of Wadsworth). Local access will be provided via detour routes, as applicable.
Custer Rd – Bridgeport Way to 75th:
This project provides for the widening of Custer Rd, the addition of new curb and gutter, sidewalks, illumination, and other related work. TPU and other utility purveyors continue transferring their lines to new utility poles throughout the project limits. The City’s capital improvement project is anticipated to start in mid-August, pending completion of utility transfers. During construction, Custer Rd will be closed between Bridgeport Way and 75th. City of Lakewood Planning & Public Works personnel are working with the City’s Communications Team to issue public information and resources regarding this project.
112th Overlay – Steele Street to South Tacoma Way:
The pre-construction conference for this project took place Tuesday, 7/7, with construction anticipated to begin August 3rd. This project provides for ADA modifications, full-depth roadway patch repairs, and the overlay of 112th St between Steele St and South Tacoma Way. South Tacoma Way.
