Latest Updates

March 2025:

Our engineering consultants have completed in-water and uplands core sampling in November-December 2024. Additional geotech exploration is now underway to conduct seismic analysis and calculations modeling.

This data will inform the final design recommendations for replacement of the pier. We anticipate updated design recommendations in spring-summer 2025. We will update this page when we receive the plans and schedule an open house for community review of the recommended design plans.

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Join us in visioning future improvements for Dash Point Park & Pier. Stay informed on this project and opportunities for community input.

Dash Point Park & Pier

Parks Tacoma is renovating Dash Point Park & Pier and re-envisioning this scenic park, which provides access to 700 feet of sandy, saltwater beach, plus a fishing pier, playground, picnic area, and basketball/tennis court. The fishing pier is currently closed due to failing conditions.

The fishing pier at Dash Point has been closed to the public since July of 2021 due to concerns about its structural integrity. Based upon engineering analysis this will involve full reconstruction/replacement of the pier.

Parks Tacoma hosted a public meeting in May 2023 to review survey results, park design, parking, and pier concepts.

Background

Since 1917, the community has enjoyed fishing via the public Dash Point Pier which allows deep water access from land without the need for a boat. In 1995 a new concrete public fishing pier of nearly 500 feet in overall length was constructed to replace the previous timber and concrete pier. A multitude of park visitors use this facility year-round for fishing, as well as simply strolling and taking in the magnificent waterfront views. After more than a quarter-century of service, exposure to the harsh marine environment and the wear and tear of daily use have left the pier in need of significant renovation to repair damage and deterioration.

Funding for the construction of the 1995 fishing pier was supported by a grant of $929,721 provided by the Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office to the Department of Fish and Wildlife for the project. Upon completion of the pier construction, in 1996 Parks Tacoma added amenities to enhance visitor experiences, including restroom facilities, a parking lot and site access improvements. In 2006, the restrooms were upgraded and the historic fountain that had graced the lawn was restored in 2010.

A 2014 engineering analysis of the District’s over-water public pier facilities included Dash Point Park and Pier. That condition assessment provided a general summary of weathering and attrition. At that time, engineers estimated that the facility had diminishing design load carrying capacity and a remaining life expectancy of 20 to 30 years.

Areas to explore in initial redesign discussions:

• Improving or replacing the fishing pier for safe use and access to deep-water fishing
• Picnic shelter
• Playground equipment
• Basketball/tennis court
• Walkways and plantings
• Parking
• Beach use
• Environmental concerns, i.e. sea level changes