Tacoma City Council Study Session - April 14, 2026

The Tacoma City Council held a study session on April 14, 2026, focused primarily on an update from the Public Works Department regarding the Connect Tacoma Safe Streets and Sidewalks Levy. The presentation reviewed the accomplishments and funding structure of the 2015 Streets Initiative, which raised approximately $358 million through property taxes, utility taxes, grants, and partnerships to improve residential streets, arterials, and mobility projects. The council discussed lessons learned from the unsuccessful 2025 levy attempt and outlined a new proposed 10-year levy aiming to raise about $320 million through a property tax increase and a 1.5% gross earnings tax on utilities. This levy would fund better neighborhood streets, safer arterials, and improved connections including sidewalks, traffic calming, and safety improvements, with an emphasis on leveraging grants and partnerships. Council members engaged in detailed discussions about project prioritization, community engagement, grant leveraging, and exemptions for seniors and disabled residents. The session also included updates on community outreach efforts and the importance of integrating infrastructure improvements with broader community and environmental goals. No specific contract awards or vendor selections were mentioned, but the discussion highlighted ongoing and future capital improvement projects and budget allocations related to street and sidewalk infrastructure.