Lakewood City Council Proclaims June 19, 2026, as Juneteenth
The Lakewood City Council has proclaimed June 19, 2026, as Juneteenth in recognition of the historic day commemorating the end of slavery in the United States.
Juneteenth marks the day in 1865 when news of emancipation reached enslaved African Americans in Galveston, Texas, more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was issued. The observance honors African American freedom, resilience, and the ongoing pursuit of equality and justice.
The proclamation encourages the community to reflect on our nation’s history, recognize the contributions of African Americans, and reaffirm a shared commitment to opportunity, inclusion, and respect for all.
The City of Lakewood joins communities across the nation in recognizing Juneteenth and its significance in American history.
Youth Council-City Council Recognition
The Lakewood City Council recognized members of the Lakewood Youth Council during its June 1 meeting, thanking them for their service and contributions to the community throughout the past year.
Youth Council members provide a valuable voice for Lakewood’s young people by participating in civic engagement activities, supporting community events, and sharing perspectives on issues affecting youth in the city.
The recognition was presented by Mayor Paul Bocchi, Deputy Mayor Patti Belle, and Councilmembers Ellen Talbo, Mike Brandstetter, Philip Lindholm, Ryan Pearson, and J. Trestin Lauricella.
Council members expressed their appreciation for the students’ dedication, leadership, and commitment to making a positive impact in Lakewood.
The City congratulates the Youth Council members on their accomplishments and thanks them for their service to the community. Their involvement helps strengthen local government and encourages the next generation of civic leaders.
Those interested in learning more about the Youth Council can visit https://cityoflakewood.us/youth-council/
City of Lakewood Seeks Public Input on Downtown Transportation Study
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.
Gravelly Lake Drive, Main Street, and Grant Ave Are Now Open!
The City of Lakewood is pleased to announce the completion of several transportation and utility improvement projects this week, marking important progress in maintaining and enhancing local infrastructure.
The 112th Street improvements between Gravelly Lake Drive and Bridgeport Way have reached completion following final pavement striping work. The project included overnight closures to allow crews to safely apply roadway markings and prepare the corridor for full reopening.
The Grant Avenue/Orchard Sewer Extension project has also been completed. Following the successful installation of new sewer infrastructure, paving work was finalized, restoring the roadway and improving service capacity for the surrounding area.
In addition, utility connection work associated with the Main Street Apartment development has been completed. The developer has finished all utility installations, restoration work, and final striping, allowing the roadway to return to normal operations.
The City thanks residents, businesses, and commuters for their patience and cooperation during construction. These completed projects help improve transportation, utility services, and overall infrastructure reliability for the Lakewood community.
For more information please visit https://cityoflakewood.us/capital-projects/
What Lakewood Residents Should Know About the 2026 FIFA World Cup™
As the Seattle region prepares to welcome the 2026 FIFA World Cup™, the City of Lakewood is encouraging residents to plan ahead for increased travel and activity throughout the region. With matches taking place in Seattle, community members may experience heavier traffic, increased transit use, and larger crowds on key travel corridors before and during the event.
Residents are encouraged to stay informed, allow extra travel time, consider public transportation options when possible, and plan ahead for major regional events and peak travel days. While Lakewood is not a host city, our proximity to Seattle and major transportation routes means the impacts may still be felt locally.
The City of Lakewood will continue sharing updates, resources, and travel information as the tournament approaches to help our community stay prepared and informed. Check the image below for the World Cup Schedule for Seattle.
Lakewood SummerFEST returns August 15! Get ready for a full day of fun, food, and special 30th Anniversary festivities.
Mark your calendar and join your family and friends. Lakewood SummerFEST returns on Saturday, August 15, 2026! Hosted by the City of Lakewood at Fort Steilacoom Park, this favorite summer tradition is the South Sound’s can’t-miss celebration.
The free and fun event runs from 11:00 a.m. – 8:30 p.m. This year, SummerFEST will celebrate Lakewood’s 30th Anniversary. You’ll find special anniversary activities and moments throughout the event that honor Lakewood’s history.
Try tasty dishes from 44 food vendors, browse over 100 market vendors, relax in the beer garden, listen to live music all day, and enjoy performances on the International Stage.
If you’re looking for excitement, check out the aerial motocross shows, tethered balloon rides, and performances by the Wenatchee Youth Circus and Vuelta la Luna Circus.
Take a walk through the Bombs Away car show, join the LEGO building contest, and visit the Veterans Resource Village. The City of Lakewood booth has your SummerFEST Passport – use it to win prizes by joining in sports and arts activities throughout the day.
Families will have plenty to do in the kids’ activity zone. Pony rides are available for a fee, and there will be skimboarding, a giant slide, and roaming activities. New this year: SplashTimesFun Foam Bubble and Splash Party.
Stay for the grand finale. TUIFEAI Cultural Academy will light up the evening with a stunning Polynesian Dance and Fire Show at dusk.
What: Lakewood SummerFEST
When: Saturday, August 15, 2026, 11:00 a.m. – 8:30 p.m.
Where: Fort Steilacoom Park, 8714 87th Ave SW
Important reminders: SummerFEST entrance is free. Tickets for some activities are available for purchase on-site.
Find the full schedule of events, parking map, vendor list, and more at NEARcation.com/summerfest
Enjoy a full day of community, culture, and connection at this year’s SummerFEST!
Lakewood Farmers Market Opens with Strong Community Turnout and Local Flavor
The Lakewood Farmers Market opened for the season with a vibrant day of community connection, local shopping, and family fun.
Despite the warm temperatures, residents and visitors showed up in great numbers to support local vendors, connect with neighbors, and enjoy all the market has to offer. The City of Lakewood extends its sincere gratitude to everyone who braved the heat and helped make opening day such a success.
Attendees explored a wide variety of fresh produce, handmade goods, prepared foods, and artisan products from local vendors. Throughout the day, visitors enjoyed live entertainment, connected with community organizations, and supported small businesses from across the region.
The opening day showcased what has made the Lakewood Farmers Market a community favorite: fresh local products, friendly vendors, and a welcoming atmosphere for all ages.
The market continues throughout the season, offering weekly opportunities to shop local, discover new products, and enjoy activities in the heart of Lakewood.
The City of Lakewood thanks all the vendors, performers, volunteers, and community members whose hard work and enthusiasm made opening day memorable. A special thank you goes to everyone who came out and participated despite the heat, demonstrating the strong community spirit that makes Lakewood such a special place.
For market dates, vendor information, and updates, visit https://cityoflakewood.us/farmersmarket/
Apply Now: 2026–2027 Lakewood Youth Council
The City of Lakewood is accepting applications for the 2026–2027 Youth Council through Friday, June 19, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. The Youth Council gives local students the opportunity to represent youth voices, work with City leaders, and help plan community events and projects. Eligible applicants must be entering high school, be in good academic standing, and either attend school in Lakewood or reside in Lakewood. Apply here: https://cityoflakewood.us/2026-2027-youth-council-application/ or contact City Clerk Briana Schumacher at [email protected] with any questions.
Desserts on the Driveway Upcoming Dates!
Desserts on the Driveway is a community-focused initiative designed to bring Lakewood residents together with the Mayor, Deputy Mayor, City Council members, and city staff in a relaxed and welcoming neighborhood setting. These informal gatherings give residents the opportunity to ask questions, share concerns, discuss ideas for improving their neighborhoods, and learn more about city programs, projects, and services that impact daily life in Lakewood.
Whether you want to talk about traffic safety, parks, neighborhood issues, community events, or simply get to know the people serving your city, Desserts on the Driveway offers an open and accessible way to connect directly with local leaders. It’s also a chance to meet neighbors, strengthen community relationships, and have meaningful conversations about the future of Lakewood.
The next Desserts on the Driveway event is scheduled for June 9 at 6:30 p.m. at the Tillicum Community Center, followed by another gathering on June 18 at the United Methodist Church at Lakewood. Residents from all Lakewood neighborhoods are encouraged to attend and join the conversation.
For more information and a full schedule of events, visit cityoflakewood.us/neighborhood-connections/
Meet Hank Jones: From Lakewood Youth Council to National Impact
“My time on the Lakewood Youth Council was transformative.”
Meet Henry “Hank” Jones, a four‑year Youth Council member, former Co‑Chair, and standout leader from Harrison Prep.
After graduating in 2023, Hank went to Emerson College, completed his degree in three years, and will be inducted into the Purple Key Leadership Society this spring. He also interned with Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley in Washington, D.C., and managed a local city council campaign, impressive achievements for a rising civic leader.
“The Youth Council equipped me with leadership and communication skills to make a difference in my community, gave me opportunities to get involved with the city, and provided relationships I still value today”, he said.
“I saw the Youth Council grow from a half dozen members my freshman year to what is now a full-fledged institution in our city and schools that has mentored hundreds of students,” he said. “I am soon to graduate from college on the East Coast with a degree in Political Communications, and I always love to hear about what the Youth Council is up to in my hometown.”
Community Partnership Turns Simple Idea Into Two-Day Clothing Event
A modest plan at the United Methodist Church at Lakewood grew into a full-scale effort that served dozens of local families.
Pastor Stephen Dilworth initially planned a small pop-up clothing boutique beside the Lakewood food bank, expecting only a few tables and donated items. As local partners became involved, the project expanded into a two-day event that filled the church’s fellowship hall and provided quality clothing to over 80 families. This transformation demonstrates the impact of collaboration and the strength of Lakewood’s community network.
Stephen Dilworth has served as Pastor of the United Methodist Church at Lakewood for nearly two years. He quickly familiarized himself with the community, identified key contributors, assessed resources, and worked to address unmet needs.
The church recently received several donations of gently used, high-quality clothing. The original plan was to set up a small pop-up boutique next to the Lakewood food bank, operated by Nourish Pierce County, using a few tables under canopies.
After sharing the project with partners, additional resources were secured, including a pallet of new clothing from one community partner.
The initiative quickly expanded to fill the entire fellowship hall and became a two-day event. Over 80 families were served, 17 volunteers participated, and a scout troop spent a day sorting clothes in preparation.
This event exemplifies how community groups and Neighborhood Connections collaborate to support Lakewood residents.
Lakewood 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 from June 22 through August 7 at Park Lodge 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.
Next Week’s City Hall and Community Engagement Events
The Lake City Neighborhood Association meets Thursday, June 11 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
Planning Commission Public Hearing Notice: a public hearing is scheduled for the 2026 Comprehensive Plan and Zoning Map Amendment on June 17 at 6:30 p.m. via ZOOM or at Lakewood City Hall. Instructions on how to attend the hearing, testify and/or submit written comments will be published no later than June 11, 2026 at https://cityoflakewood.us/planning-commission/ For more information please visit https://cityoflakewood.us/city-of-lakewood-planning-commission-public-hearing/
The City Council met on Monday, June 1 for a regular meeting. You can watch or listen to the meeting below.
What’s on Deck: June 8, 2026, Study Session, 7:00 P.M.
- Unified Regional Approach (URA) to Homelessness Presentation
- Joint Lakewood’s Promise Advisory Board meeting
- Introduction of locally initiated amendments to the City of Lakewood Shoreline Master Program
- Downtown Transportation Mitigation Fees (TMF) Overview
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.
May 26 – June 2
Calls for Service: 925 (-11% from prior week)
Arrests: 47 (+7% from prior week)
Violent Crime: 23 (-30% from prior week)
Property Crime: 38 (-31% from prior week)
Traffic Stops: 109 (-30% from prior week)
Collisions (reportable): 15 (+15% 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 4 – 11, 2026
*Please note the dates listed are tentative and may change due to weather or other conditions.
ACTIVE CLOSURES
No Active Closures This Week.
FINISHING UP CONSTRUCTION
Steilacoom Boulevard Weller to 87th Ave: The final concrete pours were completed the week of 6/5/26. The contractor is anticipated to continue punch list items in the coming week.
Nyanza Rd Improvements: The striping for Nyanza is complete except for some minor work along Gravelly Lake Drive east of the roundabout. Street lighting installation is currently being completed. The contractor is currently progressing through the punch list items.
Main Street Apartment Utility Connection: Paint striping will be scheduled in June, this will require one lane closure, and temporary delays may be encountered.
Grant Ave/Orchard Sewer Extension: Adjusting of utility castings will occur in the coming week.
UPCOMING CONSTRUCTION
Wadsworth/Silcox/Boat Sewer Extension: Work is expected to begin on the new sewer system in early June 2026. This will require full closures of these local access streets.
112th Street – Farwest to Holden: Work is expected to begin on June 11, following completion of the Clover Park School District 2025-26 regular school year. It is expected that most of the traffic impact-related construction will be completed during the summer break.
Custer Road – Bridgeport to 75th: This project will begin on August 1 and require an approximate 60 days of 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.
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 the early summer months of 2026. Most of this work will require full closures of 112th Street in the night hours over the period of a week.
Lakewood Senior Activity Center Dirty Gloves Gardening Group – Join Us!
Love gardening? Come connect with fellow plant lovers in the Dirty Gloves Gardening Group—a friendly community for beginners through experienced gardeners. Share tips, learn growing techniques, hear occasional guest speakers, and enjoy swapping stories with others who love flowers, vegetables, and shrubs.
Location: Fort Steilacoom Park Pavilion – 8714 87th Ave SW, Lakewood, WA 98498
Dates: Wednesday, June 25 • Wednesday, July 23
Time: 11:30 AM
Everyone is welcome! To register please call Elizabeth Scheid at 253-983-7786.
