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Citizens sound off on 19th and Tyler

By John Larson

Tacoma Weekly
jlarson@tacomaweekly.com
Published on: June 26, 2008

Condominiums and retail at the 19th and Tyler property do not have much support from the public, according to testimony during a meeting held June 23 at the Pacific Harbors Council of the Boy Scouts of America.

The parcel of land, bounded by South 19th on the north, Tyler Street to the east and State Route 16 on the west and south, includes Cheney Stadium, Foss High School, the Metro Parks headquarters and the Boy Scouts building. The four government entities that own the various parcels are taking public input on potential redevelopment options.

Christine Phillips is a planner with BCRA, the firm hired to examine the area for the four entities – Pierce County, the city of Tacoma, Tacoma Public Schools and Metro Parks.

Phillips discussed a recent meeting with stakeholders. Main concerns identified include access and traffic circulation. She said city staff informed her that any new development in the area will require a traffic light. A parking garage could be included in future plans, she added.

“Nothing can happen without further public process,” she reminded the audience.

The first citizen to testify was Scott Hansen from Puget Creek Restoration Society. He noted the map at the meeting contained an outline for a potential site for a swimming pool complex behind the Metro Parks headquarters. Metro Parks Commission has yet to decide if this site will be chosen as the replacement for the current pool at Titlow Park.

“We are against even the thought of putting a pool in there,” Hansen remarked.

Peter Whitley said the skateboard park is where many Tacoma youth hone their skills. He suggested adding amenities such as a drinking fountain and restrooms.

Several who spoke live in nearby neighborhoods.

Kiersten Koetje lives near Delong Elementary School. She would like amenities that would appeal to her young children.

Francine Artis is originally from New York. Tacomans should cherish green space in an urban environment, she said. “You have a valuable resource. Value it.”

Thelma Gilmer said she is 85 and has seen the area change from when she first moved into her home near China Lake. “Keep as much wild area as you can,” she remarked.

Michelle Ballenger said she is a Foss High graduate, has two children attending the school and another on the way. She stressed the importance of the athletic fields on the southern part of the campus, especially Roy Young Field, home of the Falcon baseball team. She asked that the fields be preserved. She said she would hate to see condos and retail in the area. “I’m a green space gal,” she remarked.

Howard Anderson wanted to know how many trees would be planted where there currently is a parking lot south of Cheney Stadium if the area is re-developed.

Jim Merritt, a well-known architect, gave some history about how this area was developed as it was. He expressed doubt that a commercial district around the baseball park would be successful. “For God’s sake, it is difficult enough to nurture the ones we have,” he remarked.

Charlotte Valbert, an East Side resident, pointed out that population growth is inevitable and that not everyone will agree on best uses for this area. “Tacoma is going to grow whether we want it or not.”

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