PUYALLUP, Wash. — People in Pierce County have a new trail to look forward to, but it will take a few more years for construction to be complete.
Just last week the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) officially named the trail that will stretch 12 miles from the Puyallup River Walk Trail to Fife and end in downtown Tacoma.
The trail has been named the spuyaləpabš trail. This translates to "the people of the bend at the bottom of the river." The name is meant to honor the Puyallup Tribe of Indians since the trail runs through their land.
“There's a few key art locations and areas which help tell the history and culture and story of the Puyallup tribal people,” said John White, the program administrator for WSDOT’s Puget Sound Gateway Program.
Planning for the path started in 2019 as part of the State Route 167 Completion Project. Some work has already been done near the Interurban South Trailhead in Fife and construction on two miles of the trail is underway in that area. Trail sections will open as they are completed, and the two miles currently being created in Fife will be ready for use in the fall 2026.
“We're excited to address mobility for everyone and help connect people to jobs, schools, housing and homes here within this region in non-motorized ways,” White said.
The full 12-mile trail is expected to be completed in 2029.
The section of the planned trail in Puyallup will connect to the existing Puyallup Riverwalk Trail. People who frequently use that trail said they are looking forward to a longer trail being connected to it.
“I think that's an awesome idea, it really is,” said Phyllis Wise, a Puyallup resident. “I mean, it’ll make it easier for a lot of people.”
“People can get out more, enjoy the environment,” said David Quintana. “I'll be looking forward to this one. I'm really excited about that.”