Published September 4, 2024.
The Y has proudly served Tacoma on Pearl Street for more than 50 years, seeing generations of families come through its doors to learn how to swim, improve their health and well-being, and find community. The new Pearl Street Family YMCA is an exciting and necessary upgrade that looks to continue that legacy for the next 50 years. Construction of the new community center kicked off in May 2024 and progress is well underway!
"The good weather has led way to significant progress, and over the summer we were able to reopen the south entrance of the parking lot," said Jared Johnson, Executive Director. "We're looking forward to restriping the parking lot soon and regaining most of the parking spots in October."
On September 4, Senator Patty Murray visited the construction site to learn about the Y's impact on Tacoma.
"It was great to visit YMCA of Pierce and Kitsap Counties to hear about the great work they do for the community and plans for the new Pearl Street Family YMCA," said Senator Murray. "This new facility will be a game-changer for the community—expanding the Y’s ability to offer healthy activities, affordable programs and classes, and a safe place to stay active for all ages. This is exactly what we need more of to help bring people together and give everyone a safe place to meet and gather, and I'll keep working in the other Washington for the federal support it needs."
The new amenities will rightfully get all of the attention - a brand new aquatics center and welcome center, among other things - but we wanted to take a moment to shine a light on the behind-the-scenes magic that won't be visible once construction is complete in fall of 2025.
Absher Construction Company recently installed a brand new, state-of-the-art stormwater management tank which has an on-site filtration system, replacing the need for an above-ground pond. This environmentally friendly tank is the first of its kind for the YMCA of Pierce and Kitsap Counties. Installation of the new tank took place in August and can be seen on the left side of the header image (the two long cylindrical tubes). The black tarp that can be spotted in both images will be the home of the zero-entry pool.
In the coming weeks, footing which helps support the foundation of the new building and prevents settling will be poured. We're looking forward to the installation of vertical steel beams soon after that.
Stay tuned for more updates and progress photos!