City Hall Will Be Closed Monday, May 25 for Memorial Day
Memorial Day is a day of reflection. It is a day to give thanks and show our gratitude to those served our country.
This Memorial Day we recognize and honor all who throughout our nation’s history stepped up to answer the call of duty. We give thanks for their service, and honor them and their families.
Lakewood City Hall, city operations and the Lakewood police station, will be closed Monday, May 25 in observation of Memorial Day. Regular operations resume Tuesday, May 26.
Lakewood Street Festival is Friday, May 29!
Mark your calendar for Lakewood’s 2026 Street Festival on Friday, May 29. Join us at Colonial Plaza from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. for live music, dancing, and tasty food from local vendors.
Take a walk down Motor Avenue as it becomes a lively spot for the community, with unique booths, a festive mood, and a car show with many different makes and models. Whether you come for the entertainment, the food, or to meet neighbors, you won’t want to miss this celebration.
Learn more about the event and festival updates at cityoflakewood.us/fiesta/
Farmers Market Returns Tuesday, June 2
The Lakewood Farmers Market returns to Fort Steilacoom Park on Tuesday, June 2. Held every Tuesday from 2:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., this popular community event features fresh produce, local vendors, food trucks, live music, and fun for the whole family.
The market runs through September 1 and offers something for everyone, including farm-fresh fruits and vegetables, handmade goods, lawn games, and special events such as Kids Entrepreneur Market Days. SNAP/EBT benefits are also accepted, helping make fresh, local food accessible to more community members.
Kick off the summer season by shopping local, enjoying great food, and connecting with the community at the Lakewood Farmers Market!
The summer fun continues with the City’s Concert Series beginning June 16, bringing live outdoor performances and family-friendly entertainment to the community throughout the season. Be sure to bring a chair or blanket and enjoy evenings filled with music and community spirit.
Visit cityoflakewood.us/farmersmarket/ for market details, vendor information, and the full schedule of events.
Desserts on the Driveway Returns Tuesday, June 9
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.
Desserts on the Driveway events take place throughout the summer, with the first event scheduled for June 9 at 6:30 p.m. at the Tillicum Community Center. Residents from all Lakewood neighborhoods are encouraged to attend.
For more information and a full schedule of events, visit cityoflakewood.us/neighborhood-connections/
Youth Council Splashes Into Summer With a Fun‑Filled Year-End Celebration
The Lakewood Youth Council wrapped up another energetic year with a sunny celebration at Fort Steilacoom Park! Students arrived with an impressive potluck spread, including homemade spam musubi and lumpia, before cheering on their peers as Dr. John Gaines handed out Youth Summit attendance prizes. Students filmed clips for their end of year video, set to premiere during their July 1 recognition event. The afternoon ended in an epic water balloon and super soaker showdown, making it the perfect splashy sendoff to a fantastic year!
Celebrating Lakewood’s Hearts in Action
On May 19, more than 60 people gathered at the Pavilion in Fort Steilacoom Park for an evening focused on celebrating their volunteer work with the City of Lakewood.
This year’s theme, “Hearts in Action – Building a Beloved Community,” was a perfect fit. Everyone who attended has helped shape Lakewood by building trust, strengthening connections, and making our city a better place to live, learn, work, and play.
Advisory, Council, and Commission members, Park Stewards, Adopt-A-Street volunteers, and those who support events, programs, and services all play a vital role in keeping Lakewood vibrant and welcoming. We also took a moment to thank the Volunteer Recognition Banquet Committee, whose work brought this celebration to life.
The evening was filled with stories, laughter, and well-deserved appreciation. Volunteers shared a meal, enjoyed treats, and connected with others.
To all our volunteers, thank you for putting your hearts into action. Lakewood is a better place because of you.
Interested in getting involved? Learn more about volunteer opportunities and how you can make a difference in the community by visiting https://cityoflakewood.us/human-resources/volunteer/
Donuts with the Lakewood Police Department
The Lakewood WA Police Department had a great time taking part in Idlewild Elementary’s annual PTA auction tradition!
Every year, one lucky student gets a special ride to school with Lakewood Police officers. PLUS, donuts for their whole class.
This is one of our favorite ways to connect with students and the community. Thank you to the Idlewild Elementary PTA for including us in this great tradition!
Lakewood Police Department Citizens Academy Registration
Curious about how the Lakewood WA Police Department operates? Now is your chance to get a firsthand look. Registration is open for the Lakewood Citizens Academy, an annual program hosted by the Lakewood Police Department. It offers a unique behind-the-scenes view of law enforcement operations.
Participants meet weekly for sessions led by officers, detectives, and command staff. Topics include patrol operations, criminal investigations, the K9 unit, behavioral health response, use of force, and more. Attendees also take part in select interactive trainings, including a slow-speed emergency vehicle operations course and virtual reality scenarios.
Space is limited and spots fill quickly. Apply early to secure your place: https://cityoflakewood.us/citizensacademy/
Inspiring Communities Together Through the Special Olympics Torch Run
The Lakewood Police Department was honored to participate in today’s annual Special Olympics Torch Run at Joint Base Lewis-McChord. This tradition unites law enforcement, athletes, and local partners in a spirit of unity and support.
This year’s run began with Olympia Police Department members handing the torch to Special Olympics athletes, who carried it with officers from the Lakewood Police Department and the JBLM 504th Military Police Battalion “Fighting Dragons.” Together, they completed a 1.5‑mile route across the base, supported by enthusiastic spectators.
At the finish, Chief Smith accepted the torch on behalf of the department as it continued its journey to Cheney Stadium for this year’s Special Olympics competition.
For the Lakewood Police Department, this event is more than a run. It is an opportunity to honor athletes whose determination, courage, and spirit inspire our community. The Lakewood Police Department has participated in the Torch Run since the Department’s inception. The tradition remains a source of pride each year.
We are grateful for the opportunity to stand alongside these remarkable athletes and our regional partners. We look forward to supporting this meaningful tradition for years to come.
Receive Emergency Notifications with 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
Public Works Week
During Public Works Week, the City of Lakewood recognizes the dedicated professionals who help keep our community running every day. From maintaining streets and sidewalks to supporting stormwater systems, traffic operations, and public facilities, public works teams provide essential services that residents rely on year-round.
Their work often happens behind the scenes, but its impact is seen throughout the community in the safety, reliability, and quality of life Lakewood residents experience every day. The City of Lakewood thanks our public works employees and partners for their continued commitment, hard work, and service to our community.
Building Safety Month
May is Building Safety Month, and the City of Lakewood is recognizing the importance of safe, resilient, and sustainable buildings throughout our community. Building safety professionals, inspectors, plans examiners, engineers, and permit staff all play a vital role in helping ensure homes, businesses, and public spaces meet important safety standards.
Through careful planning, inspections, and collaboration, these efforts help protect residents, support responsible development, and strengthen the community for the future. The City of Lakewood appreciates the professionals who work every day to promote building safety and help keep Lakewood a safe place to live, work, and visit.
Community Partner Events and Happenings
Washington State Department of Agriculture Finishes Spongy Moth Eradication Efforts for the Season
The Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA) completed all spongy moth treatments for Lakewood and the area west of Lake Youngs this year. WSDA would especially like to thank you for helping us protect Washington’s environment from this highly destructive pest.
Over the next three summers, residents in and near treatment areas may see more spongy moth traps as we monitor for the presence of spongy moth. Traps are labeled for easy identification. If you find a trap, please do not disturb it. More information about spongy moths and spongy moth trapping can be found on our website at agr.wa.gov/moths
We’ve been monitoring and safely eradicating spongy moth populations for over 50 years to protect your landscapes from spongy moth. Your support is protecting Washington’s trees.
Follow this link for more information.
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.
Next Week’s City Hall and Community Engagement Events
- The Lakewood Parks and Recreation Advisory Board Meets Tuesday, May 26 at 5:30 p.m. at City Hall. Attend in person or online: https://cityoflakewood.us/parks-and-recreation-advisory-board/
The City Council met on Monday, May 18 for a regular meeting. You can watch or listen to the meeting below.
What’s on Deck: June 1, 2026, Regular Meeting and Study Session, 7:00 P.M.
- Youth Council Report and Recognition
- Clover Park School District Report – Darrin Lowry, Boardmember
- Authorizing the execution of an intergovernmental agreement with the Washington Military Department for Emergency Management Aid and Assistance
- Authorizing the execution of an amendment to the agreement with Gunderson Law Firm for municipal legal services
- Authorizing the execution on an addendum to the agreement with Aquatechnex for treatment of American Lake
- Authorizing the execution of an agreement for the Stormwater Asset Management System (tentative)
- Resolution approving the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Transition Plan
- Resolution approving the Six-Year (2027-2032) Transportation Improvement Program
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.
The weekly calls for service statistics will return next week.
Updates for the week of May 21 – 28, 2026
*Please note the dates listed are tentative and may change due to weather or other conditions.
Lakewood uses durable roadway markings made from methyl methacrylate (MMA), which last up to 15 years compared to standard paint that must be reapplied annually. Unlike paint, MMA takes 20–30 minutes to fully cure. During that time, vehicles driving over the markings can track the material onto roads and vehicle finishes, causing damage.
To reduce impacts and improve safety, striping work is completed during overnight road closures when traffic volumes are lowest. Residents can still access their homes with assistance from onsite flaggers.
ACTIVE CLOSURES:
Nyanza Rd Improvements: Nyanza Road will close the nights of May 20-22 between 7:00 P.M. and 6:00 A.M. for the contractor to stripe the roadway. The striping is weather dependent and vehicles accessing local parcels are cautioned to speak with and obey flaggers directions as the lines can be damaging to vehicle paint finish if tracked. Gravelly Lake Drive will be reduced to one alternating lane of traffic each of those nights for the striping of the roundabout and roadway. Street lighting installation is now tentatively scheduled at the end of May. Poles have arrived, but arms are still a week from shipping.
112th St SW – Gravelly Lake Drive (GLD) to Bridgeport Way (BPW): 112th Street will close for striping the nights of May 27-29. Each night, the contractor will close 112th at 7:00 P.M. and reopen at 6:00 A.M. the following morning. The striping is weather dependent and vehicles accessing local parcels are cautioned to speak with and obey flaggers directions as the lines can be damaging to vehicle paint finish if tracked.
Lighting poles will be shipped in mid-August. Light poles will be stood once the contractor has the poles and can schedule crews for installation.
Main Street – 59th to 108th: Main Street will remain closed Tuesday through Saturday during the daytime hours of 7:00 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. between 59th and 108th Street. This closure will remain in effect until May 29. As a reminder, drivers traveling Main St. during non-working hours are advised to adhere to the recommended 20 MPH speed limit as steel plates will remain on the roadway.
Grant Ave/Orchard Sewer Extension: Sewer work has been completed. The contractor is actively restoring the roadway by grading and placing crushed gravel base. Paving is scheduled for May 28-29.
FINISHING UP CONSTRUCTION:
Steilacoom Boulevard Weller to 87th Ave: Lumen has pulled the last pole this week, and the contractor has scheduled the final concrete pours for the week of 5/18.
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.
Gravelly Lake Drive: will be closed Saturday, May 30th to Monday, June 1st for the Washington Department of Transportation to complete the Gravelly Lake Drive and Thorne Ln connection.
