Port of Tacoma Commissioners on May 21 approved $169,200 for local governments and nonprofits from the Local Economic Development Investment Fund.
The investments are designed to promote Washington State-based international trade, business recruitment or retention, tourism, or infrastructure efforts in Pierce County.
For 2024, the Port will provide funds for 12 projects:
- City of Orting - Orting’s Celebration of Craft
- City of Tacoma Neighborhood Planning - McKinley Overlook Project
- Foothills Rails to Trails Coalition - Rainier to Ruston relay race
- Foss Waterway Seaport Museum - Esplanade connection project
- Gig Harbor Canoe & Kayak Racing Team - Narrows Challenge race
- Metro Parks Tacoma - Point Defiance Flower & Garden Festival
- Peninsula Art League - Summer Art Festival
- Pierce County Airport - 2025 Tacoma Narrows Air Show
- Tacoma Historical Society - City of Destiny Festival
- Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber of Commerce - Tours and a reception for international businesses hosted with the Economic Development Board and World Trade Center Tacoma
- Tacoma Rowing - Indoor Rowing Championships
- Western Forest Industries Museum - Railroad track expansion project
“These investments show the Port’s commitment to economic development across Pierce County,” said Port of Tacoma Commission President Kristin Ang. “We are proud to support nonprofits and municipal governments that share our vision of promoting our community.”
The Port issued a request for proposals in December 2023 and received 25 applications. Commissioners John McCarthy and Deanna Keller participated on a review committee, along with Port staff.
More information about the Local Economic Development Investment Fund can be found on the Port of Tacoma website.