Waterway Park

7/22/21 Status Update — Project is on hold.

The plan for Waterway Park capitalizes on existing water access for human-powered watercraft.

Goals for the project include:

• Maximizing boat storage
• Providing access to the existing dock
• Incorporating natural open space
• Creating flexible event space
• Limiting parking
• Adding a direct connection from the Dock Street overpass into the park

The plan calls for a remodel of the existing Berg Scaffolding building to turn it into a boathouse with public/private restrooms, workshop, and boat storage facilities.

• Also planned is a new, secure boat-storage structure for outrigger canoes, dragon boats, and smaller, lighter watercraft, such as stand-up paddleboards and kayaks. Generous roof overhangs provide space for boat maintenance. Space for boat washing also would be provided.
• The existing dock would be remodeled to improve boat access and launching of larger vessels.
• The park will connect to the Foss Waterway Esplanade from Dock Street via a bridge connected to the site.
• An open lawn adjacent to the boathouse would provide space for passive activities or events.
• Plans also include space for an off-leash dog park along the south and east edges of the site. Additionally, a separate network of informal paths would run through landscaping designed to enhance native habitat.

Project Timeline

Final schematic designs were presented in an open house on Feb. 17, 2016.

Once costs are estimated and the project is approved by the Foss Waterway Development Authority and Parks Tacoma, funding must be identified if the improvements are to be carried out.

Funding

The 2014 Park Bond and Foss Waterway Development Authority are funding the work.

Other funders include:

• Waterway Park
  • Foss Waterway Development Authority
  • Parks Tacoma
  • Port of Tacoma