Editor's note: The above video previously aired on KING 5 Evening about the Point Defiance Park in Tacoma.
Owen Beach at Point Defiance Park will begin construction to update facilities and add recreation space starting this Labor Day.
Construction is expected to last about a year and will include approximately $4 million of total improvements.
New restrooms, a picnic pavilion, and a children’s play area are among the projects designed to improve traffic flow and address the 50 year old infrastructure that is out of date and worn down.
“Most of the facilities at Owen Beach were originally developed a half-century ago. It just makes sense to give thoughtful consideration to the latest research and to do all we can to protect the updated amenities we are building,” the park district’s deputy director of planning and development Marty Stump said. “Our goal is to make sure the investments we make today continue serving our community 50 years from now.”
Other projects planned to begin construction in 2020 include:
- Loop Trail – a new 2.5-mile paved trail will enable pedestrians and cyclists to safely access the park’s many amenities separate from vehicles on Five Mile Drive and connect to the new Wilson Way bridge for access to the Ruston Way waterfront.
- Zoo Parking – improvements to the overflow parking area will maximize use of the available space and enhance the safe use of this parcel.
- Point Defiance Marina – updates and improvements are planned, including paint, siding and decking, among other things.
Owen Beach will remain open through Labor Day.