Open Space Acquisition

Property seems to be a theme for the City of Tacoma this week. Study session will include a review of City-owned properties. One resolution okays the sale of the former MLK Library building. Another okays the acquisition of nearly six acres of open space in South Tacoma. Here’s a little more on that second resolution.

Open Space Acquisition

The acquisition of the property in South Tacoma for permanent conservation and protection from development is a part of the City of Tacoma’s Open Spaces for Habitat and for Recreation Plan (pdf).

VISION: Create an integrated system of habitat and recreation lands and facilities in Tacoma that defines and enhances the built and natural environment, supports and nurtures plant and wildlife habitat, offers a well-balanced range of recreation opportunities and enriches the lives of Tacoma’s current and future citizens.

In 2010 the Community and Economic Development Department partnered with Forterra to apply to the Pierce County Conservation Futures Program for help with the purchase of this open space. The Pierce County Conservation Futures Program works to preserve and protect threatened undeveloped areas within the boundaries of Pierce County.

The agreement with the Conservation Futures Program allows the City to acquire the land for $13,030 (10% of the assessed value) from its Open Space Fund, with the County making up the remaining $397,970 of the $411,000 total purchase price. Pierce County would acquire the land, and then assign its right to receive title to the property to the City of Tacoma at closing. As a part of the deal, Tacoma also commits to a Stewardship Agreement and Restrictive Covenant, which require the City to manage the property as “open space” in perpetuity.

This deal has been in the works for a couple years now, and adds a decent chunk of land to the roster of open spaces. The stated vision of Tacoma’s open space plan is a “balanced system of habitat and recreation lands and facilities” within the City. From the above map it appears that the City also has its eye on more property adjacent to this site. Assuming that this week’s resolution passes, what other spaces are on your wish list for open space preservation?