Parks Tacoma has reopened restrooms that budget challenges had designated for closure or limited operations.

Closures and reduced restroom hours were projected to save $205,000 for the rest of the year by reducing maintenance, security and staff costs.

These reductions were among the $9 million in operating expenses that Parks Tacoma needs to cut before the end of the year to offset faulty revenue projections and replenish reserve funds. Find more information about the budget and proposed reductions at www.ParksTacoma.gov/budget.

By shifting money budgeted this year for election costs and professional services that are not needed, the restrooms are now slated to remain open. Find a map and schedule of park restrooms at www.ParksTacoma.gov/restrooms.

“We are making difficult decisions about reducing or eliminating programs and services,” said Park Board President Matt Mauer. “We heard from the community that closing restrooms was creating hardships for seniors, people with disabilities and families with young children. Knowing how vital restroom access is for people to enjoy our parks, we appreciate that staff found a way to keep them open.”

The Park District operates 41 public park restrooms. The restroom reduction plan was proposed due to the intensity of maintenance requirements. Every restroom must be opened, inspected, cleaned, restocked and secured daily, with a deep cleaning at least weekly. High-use locations are serviced four to five times per day during peak season. The park restrooms originally chosen to close or reduce hours were among the least used.

The Park Board is expected to finalize an amendment to the 2026 budget at its June 22 public meeting. Find more information about the meeting on the Parks Tacoma website.