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(Adopted on 6/14/11, Amended Ordinance No. 27996)
HISTORIC PRESERVATION PLAN
mom,�����////�� TACOMA PLANNING COMMISSION
Jeremy C. Doty, Chair
Thomas O'Connor, Vice-Chair
' Chris Beale
Peter Elswick
Donald Erickson
Sean Gaffney
w Scott Morris
I
Ian Morrison
Matthew Nutsch
LANDMARKS PRESERVATION COMMISSION
Mark McIntire, Chair
Ross Buffington, Vice Chair
Edward Echtle
"IAM31A Ken House
aJAVA JivL Imad Al Janabi, PhD.
Fred King
Kathryn Longwell
Megan Luce
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� Bret Maddox, S.E.
Ha P ham
Pamela Sundell
CITY OF TACOMA
Ryan Petty, Community and Economic Development Director
Peter Huffman,Assistant Director Community and Ecomomic Development
Donna Stenger, Planning Division Manager
Reuben McKnight, Historic Preservation Officer
Tonie Cook, Landmarks Coordinator
CONSULTANTS
Winter & Company
., 1265 Yellow Pine Avenue, Boulder, CO 80304
www.winterandcompany.net
Artifacts Consulting
201 North Yakima Avenue, Tacoma, WA 98403
IMAGE CREDITS www.artifacts-inc.com
Code Studio, Inc.
oe11111..Z11rmg" arty Artrff% 1200 E 11 th Street, Suite 107, Austin, TX 78702
www.code-studio.com
Llnra�e� y c hint�sn D � Hoshide Williams Architects
l Collcrn,TSrf� Publr L� 100 NE Northlake Way, Suite 150 Seattle WA 98105
y c'flXtl'cx(y' iiiilrli c 'Cy
www.hoshidewiIIiams.com
elf Cray �sf T Urban Advisors
�rva#rrr fprnntsr 1211 NW Glisan Street, Suite 204, Portland, OR 97209
° y// www.urbanadvisors.com
II CITY OF TACOMA
HISTORIC PRESERVATION PLAN
►rAte
Executive Summary i
Introduction IN-1a�'�
Preservation in Tacoma........................................... IN-3
Historic Preservation and Sustainabilit IN-5
A Vision for Historic Preservation in 2020 ................IN-10 �
Chapter 1
Historic Resources 1 -1
Historic Themes and Topics ....................................... 1-3
Historic Property Types ............. 1-9
Existing Landmarks and Districts ............................. 1-13
Chapter 2
y `
Program Components 2- 1 I`
Administration 2-3
Identification ............................................................2-5 ?
Management Tools.................................................. 2-23
Incentives and Benefits........................................... 2-33
r
Education .............................................................. 2-35 wwwE
Advocacy............................................................... 2-41
Chapter 3 �.
era
Program Goals 3 - 1
Overall Goals, Policies and Actions ............................3-3
Administration Component �IIU II..................................
Goals, Policies and Actions.............................................. 3-19
iP� tin
Identification Component ,
Goals, Policies and Actions.............................................. 3-21
gComponentG ,fl Mana ement Tools
Goals, Policies and Actions.............................................. 3-27
Incentives and Benefits Components t '
Goals, Policies and Actions.............................................. 3-47 � �°°"
Education Component
Goals, Policies and Actions.............................................. 3-51
Advocacy ComponentI
Goals, Policies and Actions.............................................. 3-55
eI �
Chapter 4 Iu i
Implementation
PhasingCriteria .......................................................4-1
Implementation Table ................................................4-3
CITY OF TACOMA III
HISTORIC PRESERVATION PLAN
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IV CITY OF TACOMA
HISTORIC PRESERVATION PLAN
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This Preservation Plan is a portion of the
Tacoma Comprehensive Plan. It defines
the City of Tacoma's preservation goals,
policies and actions for preservation and
neighborhood conservation. It also pro-
vides a framework for other groups and
organizations engaged in community-
based initiatives with interests in protect-
ing and experiencing cultural resources.
The plan's primary goal is the preserva-
tion and active use of cultural resources to
enhance the city's quality of life, economic
vibrancy and environmental sustainability.
PLAN BACKGROUND
Tacoma has a well-established preservation program, which enjoys ........... .......
i
broad support by its citizens. It is recognized as a key ingredient in A Iff Yl
community well-being and livability. Noteworthy landmarks, such as What is Historic Preservation?........iii
the Old City Hall and Union Station, stand as signature reference Historic Preservation and
points in the city and other places, including numerous churches Sustainability....................................iii
and schools, symbolize the community's heritage. Some parks, A Vision for Historic Preservation in
sites and other structures also are valued for their historic signifi- 2020.................................................iii
cance.Archaeological remains extend this sense of connection with Overall Goals, Policies and Actionsiv
the past.
Goals and Policies for Program
Components....................................v
I
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
In many parts of the city, entire neighborhoods maintain their his-
toric character and provide places to live today while retaining a
sense of the past. Other older neighborhoods with traditional build-
ing patterns also contribute to the sense of place that is Tacoma,
even though they may not have historic significance. These areas,
' both residential and commercial, enhance the city's quality of life.
Many historic resources are formally recognized as individual land-
Many of Tacoma's important his- marks and as contributors to historic districts. Others remain to be
toric resources, such as the South identified as having historic significance and still others, while known
J Street Historic District, are locally to be of historic value, have not been formally designated.
designated.
While historic resources are valued, many factors challenge their
HISTORIC preservation. Some properties may be altered in ways that dimin-
RESOURCES their integrity. Others may be under pressure for demolition,
fo6gn�afY 6f h� f� ,,, „� sometimes for redevelopment and sometimes because of extensive
froh � rlyttlh� s " deterioration.
ro�ht
These challenges exist in part because some people may not value
'nd gr �h �f u � tat
their properties as historic resources. Others are not aware of the
significance of their buildings, or Zack the means to maintain them.
In some cases, other objectives may appear to be in conflict with
preservation. Responding to these factors in strategic ways is key
rUpfrest, ithcsh
pbyf � ttribut ,ash thfmg
ht to an effective preservation program.
M1 ,111 trot hi...�..�.. ur y
�iiii""" While challenges will continue, this is a articular) exciting time of
end evht ,,,,m�r bets g particularly g
opportunity for preservation in Tacoma, as well as nationally. There
is an increasing understanding of the roles that preservation and
neighborhood conservation can play in sustainability and how it
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���������������������������������������������������������%����������������������% complements many other community development objectives. New
partnerships are forming in which a variety of groups promote his-
xi n Landrxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx haihk �tlL JJ§t5,! toric resources in their work programs. For example, health care
Many ' """atfa /h providers are promoting "Healthy Heritage" walks as part of their
sUr ��° rffrcllfr rescn� d preventive medicine strategies.
f ra � th �%��� daf�cs�Y"I hitcf New technologies also are emerging that will make it easier to
rU�o ,,, iuf h
adhtif� d car FFrrllr Ii { identify historic resources, distribute information about their proper
li t�sfi i rtrg t t d/ "10-ujio stewardship and facilitate appropriate management. Linking his-
flfr �fcthifr �pr cs in toric resource information to Geographic Information Systems is an
htwe � rdres�ide � afi example. This tool will make historic survey information available to
a wide range of users, enhance an understanding of historic proper-
tMt,,,,hi'" f pa " hjifg; ties, and make the formal preservation system more understand-
utf able and predictable to the community at large.
11 CITY OF TACOMA
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
WHAT IS HISTORIC PRESERVATION ?
Preservation means having properties and places of historic and cultural value in active use and accom-
modating appropriate improvements to sustain their viability while maintaining the key, character-defin-
ing features which contribute to their significance as cultural resources. In addition, preservation means
keeping cultural resources intact for the benefit of future generations. Tacoma's preservation program
also extends to the conservation of older established neighborhoods where maintaining traditional
character and quality of life are objectives.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION AND SUSTAINABILITY
Historic preservation plays a key role in sustainability as described
in these three basic categories:
1 . Cultural/Social Component of Sustainability
Preserving historic places, including landmarks and neighbor-
hoods, helps maintain a connection to the community's heritage.
This is fundamental part of the preservation movement in Tacoma.
2. Environmental Component of Sustainability
Sensitive stewardship of the existing building stock significantly
reduces environmental impacts. Re-using a building also pre-
serves the energy and resources invested in its construction,
avoids landfill impacts, and reduces the need to produce new
construction materials, which require more energy.
3. Economic Component of Sustainability
The economic benefits of protecting local historic districts are Preserving historic places such as
well documented across the nation, and in Washington. These the Union Depot/Warehouse Historic
include higher property values, job creation in rehabilitation District helps maintain a connection
industries, and increased heritage tourism. to the community's heritage.
A VISION FOR HISTORIC PRESERVATION IN 2020
Tacoma's vision for historic resources and its preservation program as it will be in 2020 is described in
these qualitative statements:
1. Historic resources are integral to the City's overall goals and objectives.
2. Historic resources convey the humanity of Tacoma.
3. Historic resources are key to the City's sustainability initiatives.
4. A network of individuals and organizations supports historic preservation throughout the community.
5. Historic Preservation is "horizontally integrated" into planning efforts.
6. The City's historic preservation program is readily accessible.
7. Historic preservation looks forward while valuing the past.
8. Historic preservation is solution oriented.
9. The preservation program guides treatment of historic resources.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION PLAN III
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
OVERALL GOALS , POLICIES AND ACTIONS
These goals and policies for historic preservation apply to the overall program and throughout the city.
Goal: A Livable Community With a Strong Sense of History
Innovative policies and procedures should build upon the history of Tacoma and its residents.
Policies:
HP-1 Preserve archaeological resources as part of Tacoma's rich history.
HP-2 Integrate Tacoma's historic resources into community planning efforts.
Goal: A Sustainable Community Supported by Preservation Efforts
Tacoma's preservation program should be at the forefront of the sustainability movement. Land conservation,
retaining embodied energy and reduced demolition waste make preservation inherently sustainable.
Policies:
HP-3 Promote preservation's role in community sustainability efforts.
HP-4 Include sustainability objectives in an update to the City's historic design guidelines.
HP-5 Use the City's programs to promote the link between preservation and sustainability.
Goal: An Economically Vibrant Community Supported by Preservation Activities
In Tacoma, preservation contributes significantly to a vibrant local economy. It supports economic
development opportunities, retains local businesses and facilitates tourism development.
Policies:
HP-6 Encourage active use of historic resources.
HP-7 Leverage the economic development opportunities provided by Tacoma's historic resources.
Goal: Tacoma's Preservation Program Employs Nationally Recognized Best Practices.
The City of Tacoma will be a national leader in adaptive reuse and historic preservation programs.
Policies:
HP-8 Incorporate new trends and issues in preservation and neighborhood conservation.
HP-9 Promote ease of use, transparency of administration, and predictability in the preservation program.
Goal: Preservation is Integral to Other Community Goals and Policies.
Historic preservation should be integral to City planning programs and balanced with community objectives.
Policies:
HP-10 Integrate historic preservation policies into citywide planning efforts.
HP-11 Capitalize on and promote historic resources in community planning efforts.
Goal: Historic Resources are Integral Features of the Public Realm.
The City should be a leader in preservation through best practices in the management of its own historic facilities.
Policy:
HP-12 Promote best practices in the City of Tacoma's stewardship of historic resources.
IV CITY OF TACOMA
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
GOALS AND POLICIES FOR PROGRAM COMPONENTS
Tacoma's preservation program has these components:
• Administration: The framework for operating the preservation program
• Identification: The survey and recognition of properties with cultural or historic significance
• Management Tools: The specific mechanisms for protecting historic resources
• Incentives and Benefits: Programs that assist property owners and support preservation
• Education: The tools to build awareness and strengthen skills to support preservation
• Advocacy: The promotion of policies and partnerships that support preservation
The following are goals and policies related to each program component:
ADMINISTRATION COMPONENT
Effective administration is a critical part of a successful preservation
program. It includes overall organization, the roles of various City
departments, staffing and the procedures that work to assure effec-
tive operation of the preservation program.
A successful preservation program requires ongoing administrative r'
support and commitment by the City. The overall administration of �
this plan will be through the Community and Economic Development
Department, but interdepartmental cooperation is essential to achieve
its goals and objectives. �
Goal: The City Maintains a Functional, Integrated
Preservation Program.
Best practices for administering a preservation program include
providing sufficient staff, maintaining a well-managed Landmarks A successful preservation program
Preservation Commission and providing convenient access to infor- requires ongoing administrative
mation needed by property owners and other users. Review processes support and commitment by the
should be efficient as well, making best use of time for all participants. City.
Policies:
HP-13 Monitor the performance of the preservation program on
an on-going basis to assure that it maintains a high level of
performance.
HP-14 Ensure that administrative resources are adequate for effi-
cient operation of the program.
HP-15 Maintain a certified historic preservation program.
HP-16 Promote collaboration among City departments, boards and
commissions.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION PLAN V
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
RESOURCE IDENTIFICATION COMPONENT
� A first step in preservation is to determine which properties have
HLcCuzcw Sws significance as cultural resources. The City employs a variety of
Oj Sie research tools to assist in making those determinations. Research
tools include summaries of historical patterns, defined as "contexts"
and "themes," along with descriptions of the typical property types
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and building styles associated with them. The City's Geographic
�N
Information System has also emerged as an important tool for iden-
tifying potentially significant resources.
Historic resources should be presented in a manner that helps peo-
ple understand their significance and interpret their association with
1 the community. Surveys should cover all key areas of the city and
the information should be up to date. Historic contexts should help
In2007,Historic Tacoma sponsored serve as a basis for planning, in terms of predicting where historic
a lecture series that helped people resources are likely to be found, and in setting priorities for historic
understand the historic significance
of their properties. surveys.
Goal: A Detailed Understanding of Tacoma's History
Provides a Base for Preservation Efforts.
Policies:
HP-17 Provide a set of historic contexts which establish a back-
ground for understanding Tacoma's historic resources.
HP-18 Maintain a comprehensive survey of Tacoma's cultural
resources.
Goal: Historic Survey Information Supports All Program
Components.
A survey acts as the first step in the management of historic
resources. It should identify the significance of the resources
and also operate as a planning tool that is coordinated with
other local land use regulations and incentive systems.
Policies:
HP-19 Use cultural resource survey information in the City's
resource designation and management tools.
HP-20 Enhance the level of survey information that is available to
the public digitally.
VI CITY OF TACOMA
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
MANAGEMENT TOOLS COMPONENT
Management tools are the mechanisms for protecting historic
resources and providing technical assistance. Tacoma's primary
tools are the ordinances that guide historic preservation efforts as
well as underlying zoning regulations, the design review process
and design guidelines that manage treatment of the city's historic
resources. These provide an effective framework for preservation.
In some cases, however, individual tools lack sufficient clarity or An emergency preservation fund
they conflict with others. should be established to allow for the
acquisition of threatened resources.
A diverse assortment of preservation tools should serve Tacoma's ORDINANCES AND
needs. These should be based on national standards of best prac-
tices, and at the same time should be tailored to Tacoma. REGULATIONS
E4 ra � �ii
Goal: Historic Resources are Protected from Demolition. A"""fid
fI9hb t Afi,� bffi3f6�lr �t
Historically significant properties should be protected from tresrItf
demolition whenever possible. This includes those eligible andW�I
for, or listed in, local, state or national historic registers. tabfih�ng""", h ''rh 'irestt �i %%%f
Policies:
to ditiesh�( f�Eh�,,,,,,lr�t�i�n�t�onal
HP-21 Provide effective demolition review procedures. � fsfingU�Idf�rg ��� ad ] ,
HP-22 Provide tools and funding to address preservation emer-
gencies. drs �hisfraprotr ri%
HP-23 Provide incentives to protect historic resources from demoli-
tion. the Tsf 1vlUnfoaplsd `
HP-24 Ensure continuing maintenance of historic buildings. Lnt►7 Ck' ' d Histcf�r""""""""
Goal: Clear and Complete Ordinances Guide the
Preservation Program.
The preservation ordinance and other related codes should
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be clear and easy to interpret. They should also reflect best Zcrfringh #' h 1s t6
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practices in organization and content.
Policies:
HP-25 Update the Landmarks and Historic Special Review ,,
Districts Code to reflect current preservation policies and
goals.
HP-26 Use zoning tools to promote historic preservation goals and
support an overall heritage conservation system.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION PLAN VII
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Goal: The City's Project Review and Enforcement
Programs Promote Preservation Objectives.
"7 The City's process for project review and approval should be
d��Ye streamlined to provide a positive experience for applicants and to
� 1 r promote both overall, and preservation specific, goals. Enforcement
programs should be closely coordinated with the review process to
ensure that projects are developed per approved specifications.
Policy:
HP-27 Streamline project review and enforcement to promote
The desired character of traditional preservation objectives.
areas of the city, such as the North
Slope Historic District, should be Goal: Resource Designation Categories Indicate Priorities
maintained. for Conservation of Resources.
Different types of designation categories should be used to reflect
degrees of significance, alternative approaches for protection and
different management objectives. Having a range of program tools
allows each one to better fit the intent of their use. It also provides
options for program flexibility.
Policies:
HP-28 Establish clear categories for resource designation.
HP-29 Schedule designation of historic resources according to
clearly defined priorities.
Goal: The Desired Character of Traditional Areas of the
City is Maintained.
Preservation and conservation efforts should be guided by stan-
dards and criteria that are tailored to Tacoma. These should focus
on retaining key features of traditional building while accommodat-
ing compatible changes and new investment that respect the estab-
lished context.
Policy:
HP-30 Provide design guidelines that promote compatible develop-
ment.
VIII CITY OF TACOMA
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
INCENTIVES AND BENEFITS COMPONENT ���„��utiuuV4VVIVI �
Effective preservation programs offer special benefits to stimulate
investment in historic properties, encourage owners to follow appro-
priate rehabilitation procedures, and assist those with limited bud-
gets. This includes:
• Financial or technical assistance ,�F
• Tax or regulatory relief, such as streamlined review
• Special flexibility in building codes
1
Incentives and benefits for preserving historic properties should
attract investment in historic properties.
Goal: A Coordinated System of Incentives and Benefits
' I
Stimulates Preservation and Conservation in Tacoma.
Incentives should support appropriate rehabilitation and contin- An effective preservation program
ued use of historic resources. In addition, some incentives should offers special benefits to attract
encourage owners to seek local designation of eligible historic investment in historic properties
resources and conservation areas. such as the old industrial buildings
in the Brewery District.
Policies:
HP-31 Offer incentives and benefits to cover a wide range of con-
ditions.
HP-32 Promote financial incentives that stimulate investment in
historic properties.
HP-33 Enhance regulatory incentives to encourage preservation
and conservation.
HP-34 Expand technical assistance programs to promote preser-
vation and conservation.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION PLAN IX
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
EDUCATION COMPONENT
" Helping property owners learn how to maintain their historic proper-
'a r
ties as active, viable assets is a key part of a successful preserva-
tion program. Many property owners willingly comply with appropri-
ate rehabilitation procedures and develop compatible designs for
new construction when they are well informed about preservation
objectives.
k
Workshops that provide helpful information about rehabilitation
r techniques and publications that build an understanding of historic
significance are examples of education and outreach strategies.
Well-written design guidelines that provide useful information can
also serve an educational role.
In 1994, the City of Tacoma produced Education should take a more prominent role in preservation and
an educational brochure on historic work to build the constituency for historic preservation. Helping
storefronts. property owners learn how to maintain their historic properties as
active, viable assets is key to a successful preservation program.
Education and outreach are key functions of partner organizations,
and non-profit groups that promote preservation and history.
Goal: The Public Appreciates Tacoma's Diverse History
and Its Historic Resources.
Promote the understanding of a diverse set of historical perspec-
tives, and embrace Tacoma's rich cultural history.
Policy:
HP-35 Provide tools to educate the public regarding Tacoma's his-
tory and resources.
Goal: Practical Education Programs Support Historic
Preservation
While building a general appreciation of cultural resources is impor-
tant, a special initiative to build practical skills among property own-
ers, construction trades and City departments is essential.
Policies:
HP-36 Establish preservation training programs.
HP-37 Expand the use of web-based preservation tools.
HP-38 Incorporate preservation education into local school programs.
X CITY OF TACOMA
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
ADVOCACY COMPONENT
Advocacy programs promote policies and plans that support historic
preservation. This includes lobbying for zoning codes that are com-
patible with traditional development patterns in older neighborhoods
and supporting creation of new incentives to maintain historic struc-
tures. They also work to expand the base of preservation players
and engage partners in collaborative preservation programs. Private
citizens and non-profit organizations lead preservation advocacy in
Tacoma.
While the City's historic preservation office will act as coordinator,
%I;
advocacy efforts should be shared across a broad base of indepen-
dent community organizations and City departments. Community
organizations should be the primary advocates for historic preserva-
tion in Tacoma with the City's preservation office providing support.
Goal: Community Organizations are Strong Advocates
for Historic Preservation.
Community organizations should be the primary advocates for Congregations of historic churches
historic preservation in Tacoma. Historic Tacoma, the Tacoma are increasingly aware of the value
Preservation Society and other interest groups are well equipped to of historic preservation.
play advocacy roles, with the City providing support.
Policies:
HP-39 Support existing partnerships for historic preservation.
HP-40 Foster new partnerships in historic preservation.
Goal: City Departments Collaborate to Promote Historic
Preservation.
City departments and agencies should work with the historic pres-
ervation office to promote preservation efforts and assist with
implementation of the Preservation Plan. Collaboration among City
departments ensures that historic preservation is an integral part of
the culture of the city.
Policy:
HP-41 Collaborate with other City departments to promote the ben-
efits of historic preservation.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION PLAN XI
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
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Historically, Tacoma was a busy, diverse city as illustrated by the 1893
Oddfellows Parade on C Street. (Source: University of Washington, Digital
Collection)
XII CITY OF TACOMA
HISTORIC PRESERVATION PLAN
►rAt
MMMMi
9
This Preservation Plan is a part of the Tacoma Comprehensive Plan. It defines the City
of Tacoma's preservation goals, policies and actions for preservation and neighborhood
conservation. It also provides a framework for other groups and organizations engaged in
community-based initiatives with interests in protecting and experiencing cultural resources.
The plan's primary goal is the preservation and active use of cultural resources to enhance
the City's quality of life, economic vibrancy and environmental sustainability.
The Preservation Plan works in harmony
with other elements of the Comprehensive
Plan as well as related federal, state and
local regulatory programs. It consolidates «
previously adopted policies sets forth new
ones, and defines specific actions that will
achieve them.
PLAN OVERVIEW
The Historic Preservation Plan covers a wide
spectrum of strategies and objectives. These f f
include very broad themes that touch on many
aspects of community development. The plan approaches historic JFm
preservation as an integral element of community development. In
this respect, it touches on many subjects that also appear in other Preservation in Tacoma..............IN-3
City of Tacoma Comprehensive Plan elements. At the same time, it Historic Preservation and
presents program-specific actions related to components of a con- Sustainability...............................IN-5
ventional preservation program. These will require strategic use of A Vision for Historic
resources and collaboration among others who see the benefits of Preservation in 2020.................IN-10
heritage conservation.
Plan Development
The Historic Preservation Plan builds on the previous Culture and
History element of the City of Tacoma Comprehensive Plan. It has
been expanded to address a much broader range of issues, goals,
policies and actions based on community input through workshops,
focus groups and interviews. Work sessions with the Tacoma
Landmarks Preservation Commission also provided material for the
plan.
IN-1
INTRODUCTION
Plan Chapters
The plan is organized into these chapters:
Chapter 1: Historic Character of Tacoma
This chapter includes background on the history of reservation in
p g Y p
Tacoma and a general overview of its historic resources.
Chapter 2: Preservation Program Components
This chapter describes the key components of Tacoma's existing
preservation program, which include:
• Administration
• Identification
• Management Tools
• Incentives and Benefits
The Tacoma waterfront in 1912 with Education
the Tacoma Municipal Dock,Alaska Advocacy
Pacific Dock and Tacoma Hotel.
(Source: University of Washington, The chapter also identifies issues related to each of the preserva-
Digital Collection) tion program components.
HISTORIC Chapter : Goals, Policies and Actions
PRESERVATION This chapter sets forth goals for historic preservation in Tacoma.
The goals are organized into categories by preservation program
""hi component. The categories are:
rhg csfIn ' nd £f £ gakh Overall Goals, Policies and Actions
rsfxstsi' a � �� Administration Goals, Policies and Actions
• Identification Goals, Policies and Actions
firm � " fh r � tho ��� Management Tools Goals, Policies and Actions
mt ,,,,, f , � ,,,,,,,j
Incentives and Benefits Goals, Policies and Actions
6tf'r4
Education Goals, Policies and Actions
ff ��� h ( gal rsGrnd Advocacy Goals, Policies and Actions
Each goal then has one or more Policies listed under it, and these in
(i rsry �rnprrest��..
t�v ���u { oNdra�f � turn have specific Actions that would be taken to accomplish them.
the'atioIn �ghbFhsd ;; Thy This structure reflects the most direct connection of an individual
tfmI deb ""' policy and its actions to a goal. However, there often are interrela-
tionships among the policies and actions with other goals.
Chapter : Implementation
This chapter establishes a strategy for executing individual actions
in a sequence that will be most effective in reaching the stated goals
for preservation.
IN-2 CITY OF TACOMA
INTRODUCTION
PRESERVATION IN TACOMA
Tacoma is a special place with an identity expressed in its cultural resources. The city covers hills and
lowlands that provide places for industry, commerce and culture and reaches out into bays that con-
nect it with the wider world. In this place, generations of Native Americans and more recent immigrants
made their livelihood, and in doing so left an imprint on the land that speaks of their passing. This is
preserved in the archeological record of the early native settlements and in the built environment that
exists today.
Street patterns, buildings, open lands, landscapes
and site features combine to tell the story of
Tacoma's humanity. These properties also serve
the city in vital, sustainable ways, by support-
ing economic development, affordable housing,
healthy living and cultural enrichment.
1 k r �
This unique collection of archaeological sites and
built resources is one of the city's greatest assets.
Promoting an understanding and appreciation of
these resources, and also keeping them in active
service is important to the community.
WHAT IS HISTORIC PRESERVATION?
Preservation means having properties and places of historic and cul- Tacoma in 1888(Source: University
tural value in active use and accommodating appropriate improve- of Washington, Digital Collection)
ments to sustain their viability while maintaining the key, character-
defining features which contribute to their significance as cultural
resources. Preservation also means keeping cultural resources �
intact for the benefit of future generations. That is, while maintaining
properties in active use is the immediate objective, this is in part a w;
means of assuring Y that the will be available for others in the future.
Historic preservation also is an integral component of other com-
munity initiatives in neighborhood livability, sustainability, economic t 1
development and culture. With this understanding, the term "his- T'
toric preservation" includes the specific methodologies associated
with maintaining integrity of significant resources, but also covers a
range of "character management tools" that serve to maintain tra- I
ditional features of established neighborhoods. Many of these tools
are described later in this plan.
The 1891 Merchants National Bank
building at 11 th and Pacific was demol-
ished in the early 1960s.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION PLAN I ®3
INTRODUCTION
BALANCING INTERESTS
Because preservation is a part of many community interests, includ-
r
in housin , sustainabilit livability and economic development, the
g g Y, Y p
� program inherently seeks to balance broader community objectives
while achieving its core mission of retaining cultural resources.
��a For this reason, the process of identifying and managing cultural
Y° resources occurs in the context of other city planning work. This is
- best illustrated in the way in which sustainability initiatives interact
�� with components of the preservation program.
4J �
The National Bank of Commerce
Building
r,ra�aaw
The steamers Flyer, Vashon and Crest docked at the
1911 Tacoma Municipal Dock which was demolished
in the early 2000s. (Source: University of Washington,
Digital Collection)
IN-4 CITY OF TACOMA
INTRODUCTION
HISTORIC PRESERVATION AND SUSTAINABILITY
Community sustainability has several overlapping components, including cultural/social, environmental
and economic sustainability. Historic preservation is closely linked to each of these components, making
it an important part of a community's overall sustainability program.
CULTURAL SOCIAL COMPONENT
OF SUSTAINABILITY '
This component of sustainability relates to the
maintenance of the community's cultural traditions
and social fabric. Preserving historic places and
patterns promotes cultural and social sustainability
by supporting everyday connections between resi-
dents and the cultural heritage of the community.
IIIIIIIIII �y�Iy��iyiyiyiyiyiyi4��yyiyi4��l'
A
These connections are reinforced by the physi-
cal characteristics of historic places, which often
I
directly support environmental sustainability.
Historic properties, neighborhoods and archeologi-
cal sites provide direct links to the past. These links
convey information about earlier ways of life that help build an ongo- Preserving historic places pro-
ing sense of identity within the community. Residents anchored in motes the three basic components
this sense of identity may be more involved in civic activities and of sustainability.
overall community sustainability efforts.
FouslngAjivriwEnmy
The design of most historic development promotes social interac- Mae041"W
tion that supports a high quality of life and helps build a sense of
,�
community. Historic development is often compact and walkable,
providing an environment for impromptu mixing of different cultural
and economic groups. Porches, plazas and other direct connections �
to the public realm provide additional opportunities for community
interaction in historic areas.
The compact, pedestrian-friendly nature of most historic areas �� F
directly supports environmental sustainability by promoting smaller, °tY
more energy efficient structures, reducing vehicle use and support-
ing healthy-living initiatives. Historic neighborhoods also tend to be
centrally located with convenient access to public transportation
systems. This physical pattern, combined with the inherent cultural
connections, provides significant support for the community's over- The National Trust for Historic
all sustainability effort. Preservation highlighted the linkage
between preservation and sustainability
on their official poster for Preservation
Week in 1980.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION PLAN I ®5
INTRODUCTION
ENVIRONMENTAL COMPONENT OF
'� Y�IWR"YVY"N;M"""nwar"r"` i SUSTAINABILITY
.; This is the most often cited component of
u
sustainability. It relates to maintenance of the
natural environment and the systems that support
human development. Historic preservation is an
important part of environmental sustainability and
green building initiatives. It directly supports envi-
ronmental sustainability through conservation of
embodied energy, adaptability, and other factors
that keep historic buildings in use over long peri-
ods of time.
The 1912 Tacoma Building at 1o21 Embodied Energy
A Street housed the headquarters Embodied energy is defined as the amount of energy used to cre-
of the Weyerhaeuser Company ate the original building and its components, and then maintain
until the late 1960s. More recently,
it was rehabilitated into a modern them. Preserving a historic structure retains this energy. Re-using
office building. (Source: University a building also preserves the energy and resources invested in its
of Washington, Digital Collection) construction, and reduces the need for producing new construction
materials, which require more energy to produce. Studies confirm
that the loss of embodied energy by demolition takes three decades
or more to recoup, even with the reduced operating energy costs in
a replacement building.
Building Materials
Many historic building materials contribute to environmental
sustainability though local sourcing and long life cycles. Buildings
constructed with wood, stone, and brick were built for longevity and
ongoing repair.Today, new structures utilize a significant percentage
Union Depot's copper dome was of manufactured materials. These materials are often less sustain-
replaced in 1994 after 83 years of able and require extraction of raw, non-renewable materials. High
service. levels of energy are involved in production, and the new materials
may also have an inherently short Iifespan.
Sustainability and Historic Windows
The sustainable nature of historic building materials is best illus-
trated by a window. Older windows were built with well seasoned
wood from durable, weather resistant old growth forests. A historic
window can be repaired by re-glazing as well as patching and splic-
ing the wood elements. Many contemporary windows cannot be
Buildings constructed with durable repaired and must be replaced entirely. Repairing, weather-strip-
materials such as stone and brick ping and insulating an original window is generally as energy effi-
were built for longevity. (Source: cient and much less expensive than replacement.
Artifacts, Inc.)
IN-6 CITY OF TACOMA
INTRODUCTION
While older windows are often cited as being
major sources of heat loss, other parts of a build-
ing typically account for a greater proportion of
overall losses. For example, as much as 50/o of
the energy lost from a house is from air infiltration
through the attic, uninsulated walls, and around
windows and door cavities, and not through the
glass in a window itself (Gotthelf, Jill H. & Walter
Sedovic. What Replacement Windows Can't
Replace: The Real Cost of Removing Historic fit,
Windows. APT Bulletin: Journal of Preservation
Technology. Volume 36. Number 4). Repairing an
existing window and adding insulation to the attic
saves more energy than the replacement of sin-
gle paned wood windows with double or triple-paned alternatives. As a rule, the quality of early con-
Adding 3.5 inches of insulation in the attic has three times the R struction materials, such as those
value impact compared with moving from the least energy efficient used in the Old City Hall building,
single pane window with no storm window to the most efficient new was higher than those used in many
window (Rypkema, Donovan D. Speech, December 7, 2009). late 20th Century buildings.
Construction Quality
As a rule, the quality of early construction and materials was higher
than those used in many late 20th Century buildings. Lumber used
in early Tacoma came from mature trees, was properly seasoned
and typically milled to "full dimensions," providing stronger framing
and construction.The high quality of construction in earlier buildings
is an asset that is difficult to replace.
Adaptability
The floor plans of many historic properties easily accommodate
changing needs. They permit a variety of uses while retaining the
overall historic character. Large warehouse floor plates, for exam-
ple, are easily adapted to loft residential units and offices.
Landfill Impacts
According to the Environmental Protection Agency, building debris
constitutes around a third of all waste generated in the country. The
amount of waste can be reduced significantly if historic structures
are retained rather than demolished.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION PLAN I ®7
INTRODUCTION
ECONOMIC COMPONENT OF
SUSTAINABILITY
This component of sustainability relates to the
economic balance and health of the community.
Historic buildings represent a substantial eco-
nomic investment by previous generations. The
economic benefits of protecting historic resources
are well documented across the nation, and in
Washington. These include higher property val-
ues, job creation in rehabilitation industries, and
increased heritage tourism. Quality of life improve-
ments associated with living in historic neighbor-
hoods may also help communities recruit desir-
able businesses.
Historic resources provide visitors Historic Rehabilitation Projects
with a glimpse into Tacoma's heri- Historic rehabilitation projects generate both direct and indirect
tage while allowing for new eco-
nomic development such as the benefits. Direct benefits result from the actual purchases of labor
rehabilitated Garretson Woodruff and materials, while material manufacture and transport results in
Pratt building on the University indirect benefits. Preservation projects are generally more labor
of Washington Tacoma campus. intensive, with up to 70% of the total project budget being spent
(Source: University of Washington,
Digital Collection) on labor, as opposed to 50% when compared to new construction.
Expenditure on local labor and materials benefits the community's
economy.
Heritage Tourism
The National Trust for Historic Preservation defines cultural heritage
tourism as, "traveling to experience the places, artifacts, and activi-
ties that authentically represent the stories and people of the past
and present." Investing in historic preservation helps provide visitors
with a glimpse into Tacoma's heritage and its contribution to state and
E,71national history. Heritage tourists spend more on travel than other
tourists, which generates jobs in hotels, bed and breakfasts, motels,
The small settlement of Tacoma retail stores, restaurants, and other service businesses (Mandala
was less than a decade old in 1871. Research, Study for the USCHT Marketing Council, 2009).
I CITY OF TACOMA
INTRODUCTION
Support for Local Business and Trades
Because historic rehabilitation projects are more labor intensive
than new construction and often use specialized materials, more
of the project investment stays in the local economy rather than
being spent on non-local materials. A rehabilitation project can also
provide affordable space for local small businesses. The Go Local!
Tacoma organization helps consumers connect with local indepen-
dent businesses, providing a resource for property owners seeking
to use local materials and labor as part of a historic rehabilitation
project.
f ,f'
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y
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r
�'� ✓'95�`,v l (tic �/ ✓"i I/. ;i/`, !L Yf�, /r �+�"i y�y� /'i���
✓� � g � ;r � q/� P/''r`�tin""" "r;`�a � �E J �;i, iHu gid.
�k'%�/,�w,�h✓Or rriil�t.`��A)�;� �is�ls i rh� r
�li� fiW 1 tl
The Stanford White designed Tacoma Hotel was built in
1884 and became one of the preeminent hotels on the
west coast. It was destroyed by fire in 1935.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION PLAN I ®9
INTRODUCTION
A VISION FOR HISTORIC PRESERVATION IN 2020
This vision for preservation in Tacoma is in part inspired by a recognition of the benefits it yields, as described in
the preceding section.Tacoma's vision for historic resources and its preservation program as it will be in 2020 is
described in these qualitative statements:
Historic resources are integral to the city's
overall goals and objectives.
Historic preservation in Tacoma is a vital part
of broader community development policies
and objectives. It serves as an important tool in
sustainability, economic development, public
health, housing and cultural enrichment. In this
fl' respect, it embraces a holistic approach to plan-
ning and development.
Historic resources convey the humanity of
m
Tacoma.
They provide links to heritage and enable people to
feel a sense of connection with their past and with
the community as a whole. Historic resources pro-
vide opportunities to interpret the history of the com-
munity, to comment on events that have shaped it,
and to build an understanding of our culture.
Streetcars and automobiles shared Historic resources are key to the city's sustainability
Pacific Avenue in 1912. (Source: initiatives.
University of Washington, Digital Preserving historic resources is a fundamental part of a comprehen-
Collection)
sive approach to sustainability. Keeping historic properties in use
conserves the energy embodied in their creation. Historic structures
also operate in energy conserving ways, and compatible retrofits for
energy conservation are encouraged. Preserving close-in historic
neighborhoods also supports alternative modes of transportation,
including walking, bicycling and using mass transit.
A network of individuals and organizations supports
Historic Preservation throughout the community.
The preservation program is community-based. It links official city
preservation components with conservation-related activities of
other groups and individuals.
I -10 CITY OF TACOMA
INTRODUCTION
A VISION FOR HISTORIC PRESERVATION IN 2020
Historic Preservation is "horizontally
integrated" into planning efforts.
Many departments and agencies employ strate-
gies which support Historic Preservation as they
seek to achieve their individual missions.
The City's Historic Preservation program
is readily accessible.
Program components are easy to understand.
Lay people as well as professionals participate
in the system at a variety of levels. They engage
in researching and nominating resources for des- 1`
ignation. They also can easily comment on city
r
preservation activities and they can anticipate the
potential outcomes of properties that are man- f
aged by preservation tools.
Professionals in various departments of government and other In 1880, the young city was still low
agencies also engage in the preservation system and see it as a in scale. The two-story Mosmer
useful tool. Property owners, builders and developers understand House is the only surviving struc-
ture visible in the above photograph
how the system operates and can make informed decisions about (center with hipped/mansard roof).
properties that may be of historic significance and of others that In the 1920s, it was moved to face
may be important to the identity of the community. south on 9th street between Market
and St. Helens. It remains the old-
Historic Preservation looks forward while valuing the past. est structure in downtown Tacoma.
The program seeks ways in which historic resources maintain the (Source: University of Washington,
vitality of the city. It is forward looking, helping the community meet Digital Collection)
its aspirations for the future in ways that make the best use of its
older buildings, sites and neighborhoods.
Historic preservation is solution oriented.
The program helps owners maintain historic resources in active and
appropriate uses. Design guidelines, "how to" information and other
media illustrate the range of appropriate options.
The preservation program guides treatment of historic
resources.
Historic resources are identified and described in a manner that
conveys their significance and interprets their association with the
community. They are then designated in a manner that facilitates
informed management. A set of well-reasoned tools is applied,
including regulations, incentives and benefits.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION PLAN I -11
INTRODUCTION
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i
The 17-story Washington Building at 1019 Pacific Avenue. was completed
in the mid 1920s and is now on the National Register of Historic Places.
(Source: Tacoma Public Library)
I -12 CITY OF TACOMA
HISTORIC PRESERVATION PLAN
CHAPTER I
►rAt
/
J/o.
,,,,,,,,, ,;;;*see ..,;;,, .,iio c;r,;;, ,,,,,,,,, A
Thousands of years of historic and pre-historic settlement in Tacoma have yielded a rich
array of archeological, historic and cultural resources.
This chapter provides a brief summary of
historic resources in Tacoma including a
synopsis of the local preservation move-
ment, a description of historic property
types and a summary of the city's existing 1
historic landmarks and districts. „
THE PRESERVATION MOVEMENT IN TACOMA
The historic preservation movement in Tacoma
4
began in the late-1950s when post war neglect
and Federal Housing and Urban Development
programs threatened one of the Pacific Northwest s oldest and mosti/l/A
,,,m
intact downtowns. Then, the construction of Interstate 5 in the early
1960s put older parts of the city in increased competition with outly- Historic Themes and Topics.........1-3
ing areas. In response, many older buildings were replaced in an Historic Property Types................1-9
attempt to modernize and redevelop the center of the city. Existing Landmarks
and Districts................................1-13
1-1
CHAPTER 1 e HISTORIC RESOURCES
Soon after the completion of the new County-City
Building in 1959 and the demolition of the iconic
Romanesque Pierce County Courthouse on the
v
same block, a preservation group emerged to
._n challenge reports that the abandoned Old City
„ ll Hall Building was structurally unsound and should
be torn down. The potential loss of the 1892 land-
mark triggered a civic debate that grew in inten-
sity through the 1960s. "A movement to save and
renovate Old City Hall appears to be rubbing off
on some of the Tacoma area's other old buildings,"
stated a major newspaper article in 1966.
I
In 1968, Old City Hall was sold to a San Francisco
real estate developer whose project to preserve
and reuse the building became a civic success
The preservation and re-use of the that began a wave of new downtown preservation projects. Along
1892 Old City Hall Building became Pacific Avenue, however, some new parking garages replaced older
a civic success that began a wave brick commercial buildings. This process seemed destined to be
of new downtown projects. The Old
City Hall was the first locally desig- repeated in the neighborhood around Old City Hall.
nated Tacoma Historic Landmark.
In the 1970s,the local arts community, led by architects Robert Evans
and Alan Liddle, began a push for policy changes that would pre-
serve the Old City Hall district and encourage preservation of older
buildings elsewhere in the city. The City Council adopted Tacoma's
first Landmark Preservation Ordinance in July 1976. Soon after, in
1978, the Old City Hall Historic District was designated as the City's
first design review district. In 1983, the City Council designated a
second downtown district, the Union Depot/Warehouse Historic
District, followed in 1985 by the Pacific Avenue Historic District.
1-2 CITY OF TACOMA
CHAPTER 1 e HISTORIC RESOURCES
HISTORIC THEMES AND TOPICS
Historic themes are used to group information that relates to existing historic resources based on a sub-
ject, specific time period or geographic area. The relative importance of specific historic resources can
be better understood by determining how they relate to these themes. An individual historic resource
may relate to more than one theme.
Three general themes that relate to the develop-
q
ment of Tacoma are briefly summarized in the fol-
lowing pages. These illustrate how themes may
be described, but do not attempt to cover the full ,'
range of Tacoma's history. Chapter 3 includes
recommendations for additional research to sup-
port an understanding of the full range of historic .G .
themes within the community.
Native American Settlement
Prior to European settlement, the Nisqually and Puyallup peoples Archeological work, such as that
had many settlements near the shores of what came to be known as done during the excavation for the
Commencement Bay. Salmon provided the primary economic basis Pacific Plaza project, assists with
for these societies who were semi-sedentary, moving between dif- an understanding of earlier settle-
ment in the Tacoma area.
ferent settlements depending upon the season. Resources asso-
ciated with Native American settlement are generally found in
archeological sites. Archeological resources associated with Native
American settlement may include shell middens, camp sites, burial
sites, tools, implements or other artifacts or features.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION PLAN 1®3
CHAPTER 1 e HISTORIC RESOURCES
Early European Settlement
The earliest European settler in the Tacoma area was Nicolas Delin,
who constructed a sawmill in 1852 where the Puyallup River enters
the bay. However, Delin and several other early settlers aban-
doned the area during a conflict with local tribes in the mid-1850s.
European settlers did not return until the mid-1860s when Job Carr
claimed 168-acres in the area now referred to as Old Town. Once
1 the settlement had been platted, it was given the name Tacoma
City, after the original Salish name for Mount Rainier. Today, historic
resources associated with early European settlement in the Tacoma
area may be identified through archeological activities.
11 th Street was a major corridor
for streetcars running between ��yj�
Pacific and K (now Martin Luther
King Street). In 1893, streetcars still
shared the street with horse-drawn
carriages. (Source: University of
Washington, Digital Collection)
flip{
1 ;
Tacoma took its name from the original Salish name for
Mount Rainier.
1®4 CITY OF TACOMA
CHAPTER 1 e HISTORIC RESOURCES
Transportation Development
Following early settlement, the pattern of urban development in
Tacoma was largely shaped by the development of transportation
resources. Early neighborhoods were densely clustered around the
port and railroad terminus while later development spread outward
along streetcar lines and eventually around new automobile routes. f
` Ali
Railroads
A 1873 decision to terminate the Northern Pacific Railroad's trans-
continental line at Tacoma caused a development boom that turned � �F
the village into a city almost overnight. The terminus was located
away from the original Old Town, causing the center of the city to
move south towards what is now downtown Tacoma. In 1874, rail-
road service began, the community incorporated as Tacoma and
the Northern Pacific's Tacoma Land Company began selling lots on
newly platted streets.
Although the headquarters of the Northern Pacific moved to Seattle
after the economic depression of the early 1890s, railroads contin-
ued to be a significant force in Tacoma's development well into the
20th Century.A wide range of historic resources are associated with
railroad activities in Tacoma, from landmark buildings like the 1888
Northern Pacific Headquarters and 1911 Union Station, to the ware- t
house buildings now occupied by the University of Washington, as
well as the rail corridors themselves.
i{
y1,T
The 1888 Northern Pacific Railroad
A Headquarters building at 621 Pacific
" Avenue and the 1911 Union Station
at 1717 Pacific Avenue are impor-
tant historic landmarks associated
with railroad activities in Tacoma.
The warehouse buildings now occupied by the
University of Washington are associated with historic
railroad activities. The canopied walkways emulate his-
toric loading bays.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION PLAN 1®5
CHAPTER 1 e HISTORIC RESOURCES
Maritime Activities
Large scale maritime activities began in the early 1870s with lumber
shipments from Tacoma to California, South America, Australia and
other points. Once the Northern Pacific Railroad arrived, the compa-
iii/%j ny's activities dominated the port area as they augmented outgoing
� lumber and coal shipments with incoming cargoes from Asia des-
tined for the east coast. The public Port of Tacoma was created in
1918 and the port remains a leading West Coast gateway, primarily
handling cargo bound to or from Asia. Historic resources associated
" with maritime activities in Tacoma include wharves, warehouses
and canals. In many cases, such resources are closely associated
with both railroad and maritime contexts.
The Port of Tacoma remains a lead-
ing West Coast Gateway. (Source:
Artifacts Inc.) i ON n✓, !! a � ✓i i1%'
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The side wheel steamerAlaskan arrived at the Northern
Pacific Dock in 1880. The wharf was a semi-indepen-
dent neighborhood due to its distance from downtown.
(Source: University of Washington, Digital Collection)
1®6 CITY OF TACOMA
CHAPTER 1 e HISTORIC RESOURCES
Streetcars
Tacoma's first horse-drawn streetcar line began service in 1888.
From 1890, electrified streetcar lines radiated out from the center
of the city and significantly impacted the general pattern of devel-
opment. At one time, Tacoma claimed to have the longest elec-
tric trolley line in the world, running from downtown southwest to
Steilacoom. By the mid-1930s, however, the electrified rail system (i
was dead, to be replaced by automotive transport.
A number of historic resources are associated with the development
of Tacoma's streetcar system, from early commercial corridors and
centers to the historic residential areas that extend south and west
beyond downtown. The concentrations of historic buildings that still
line these corridors reflect the locations of these early streetcar
lines as illustrated on Map 2.2: Year Built of Oldest Improvements
on Parcels With Historic Streetcar Routes on page 2-11.
From 1890, electrified streetcar
lines radiated out from the center
of the city and had a significant
impact on the general pattern of
development. (Source: University of
„ Washington, Digital Collection)
A number of historic resources are associated with the
development of Tacoma's streetcar system. (Source:
University of Washington, Digital Collection)
HISTORIC PRESERVATION PLAN 1®7
CHAPTER 1 e HISTORIC RESOURCES
Automotive irculation
Much of the city was shaped, and some older parts were re-shaped
in the automotive era. The dense early development pattern was
sometimes replaced with a lower density of commercial and resi-
dential development. Early automotive routes, such as Old Highway
99 primarily carried local traffic, while later routes, such as Interstate
5, which reached the city in 1967, created a more regional transpor-
tation network. The Interstate did not slice through the downtown as
it did in Seattle and Portland, but it did encourage growth of subur-
�� � I�u ' ������ r ban areas that diminished the relative importance of the city center.
Historic resources associated with automotive development include
Much of the city, such as South Tacoma Way(Old Highway 99), was automobile-oriented commercial centers, outlying residential areas
shaped, or later re-shaped in the and bridges. In many cases, these date from after World War II and
automotive era. may be considered the "Recent Past."
HISTORIC THEMES IN TACOMA
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1-8 CITY OF TACOMA
CHAPTER 1 e HISTORIC RESOURCES
HISTORIC PROPERTY TYPES
Groups of properties with common physical attributes or that share relationships with historic figures
and events may be considered distinct historic resource types. In many cases, historic resource types
are associated with particular historic contexts or periods in the city's history.
II��JJJJJJJJJ�' p � �j
Some of Tacoma's best known historic resource
types are summarized below. They include indus-
trial, commercial, residential and civic/religious °
resources, as well historic properties associated
with the "recent past," constructed in the 1950s
through the 1970s.
r i
Industrial Resources
Tacoma's industrial development initially was
shaped by natural resource exploitation, followed
by economic depression and then fueled by the
coming of the railroad in 1873. During these
cycles, the city benefited from the ample natural
resources that surrounded it, including the deep-
water port.
Early lumber mills gave way to the unbroken "mile of grain" ware- Industrial resources in Tacoma
houses, wharves and shipyards along the waterfront in the 1890s include the Foremost/Meadowsweet
and the early 1900s. Albers Mill, a remnant of that industrial era, is Dairy building on Pacific Avenue,
which is being rehabilitated into
now luxury waterfront condominiums. Italianate and Romanesque commercial office space.
heavy-timbered masonry buildings took hold along Pacific Avenue
during this same period. These were three to four stories, with com-
mercial spaces fronting the street on the east and warehouse docks
on the west. They are now the core of the University of Washington-
Tacoma campus, and are included in the Union Depot/Warehouse
Historic District.
Adjacent to this area, the Brewery District (not a designated his-
toric district) houses important early 20th-century industrial build-
ings, including the Nisqually Power Substation, the Royal Ice Cream
Building, and the Pacific Brewing and Malting Company. Other
potential historic industrial properties associated with wood prod-
ucts manufacturing, aerospace, automobiles, shipbuilding and other
industries remain to be identified.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION PLAN 1
CHAPTER 1 e HISTORIC RESOURCES
Commercial Resources
Tacoma has varied historic commercial resources from modest
wood frame buildings to high-style commercial buildings. Early
wood frame buildings within the central business district (gener-
ally contained within the current Old City Hall Historic District) were
destroyed by fire in 1894, and replaced by masonry buildings. The
post-fire commercial building boom lasted well into the 1920s, turn-
ing the area around Pacific Avenue into an important hub.
As a major port and railroad terminus, trade and finance was the
lifeblood of Tacoma commerce, and this translated into high-style
commercial buildings, such as the Northern Pacific Headquarters
and the Tacoma Building. Historic theaters along Broadway contrib-
uted to the cultural and commercial life of the city.
The historic central business district In contrast to downtown, Old Town Tacoma, which is now a neigh-
is typified by sturdy masonry build- borhood commercial center, includes more modest historic commer-
ings, such as the 1892 Old City Hall. cial resources such as early wood frame buildings. Other neighbor-
hood commercial centers generally include low-rise wood frame and
masonry buildings typical of areas along the city's original street car
lines (See Map 2.2: Year Built of Oldest Improvements on Parcels
With Historic Streetcar Routes on page 2-11).
.o
.w
s
Many older commercial buildings survive in Tacoma's
A number of historic commer- neighborhood centers.
cial buildings are located along
Pacific Avenue in the Union Depot/
Warehouse Historic District.
1-10 CITY OF TACOMA
CHAPTER 1 e HISTORIC RESOURCES
Residential Resources
Tacoma's historic residential resources range from high-style sin-
gle-family homes to working class apartment buildings and simple
fishing shacks. Each type can be generally characterized through
their association with the city's historic districts.
r/�ul /, ,l/✓ i, /fi,u�nfuu,iw�
Within the Seminar /Stadium Historic District,y large high-style
single-family homes include Queen Anne, Craftsman, Bungalow,
Colonial Revival and Georgian Revival examples in a largely intact
neighborhood. The North Slope Historic District represents prosper-
ous middle-class values from the turn of the century. Among the
styles found here are Bungalow, Colonial Revival, Tudor Revival,
Mission Revival and American Foursquare. Both historic districts
also include modernist homes from the 1950s and 1960s as well as
fine apartment buildings, mostly dating from the 1920s through the
1950s.
The South J Street Historic District includes a row of Victorian
Era homes and more modest working class homes can be found
throughout the Hilltop neighborhood. The Salmon Beach Historic
District is typified by former fishing shacks built over water. They are
now used as residential homes.
Tacoma's neighborhoods include
a wide variety of residential styles
reflecting high-style architecture,
builder's homes, vernacular and
r pattern book, and unique regional
interpretations of popular styles.
1
1
I
The South J Street Historic District consists of a row of
intact Victorian Era homes.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION PLAN 1-11
CHAPTER 1 e HISTORIC RESOURCES
Civic and Religious Resources
,,rr ,r���� �(rJUuoiwam The political and cultural development of Tacoma is reflected in
its many historic civic and religious buildings. Identified resources
include landmark buildings such as the Old City Hall and Stadium
High School. Additional civic and religious resources include neigh-
borhood churches, fire stations and other public or semi-public
places or spaces. Ongoing efforts to identify historic civic and reli-
gious buildings include the school district's survey of its historic
resources and the City's and Historic Tacoma's survey of sacred
places.
Mid-Century Resources
Interest in Mid-Twentieth Century design (The Recent Past) is well
established in Tacoma. Many properties at or near the 50-year age
Historic Tacoma sponsored a publi-
threshold could qualify for listing as historic resources. Buildings
cation highlighting a selection of sig- and districts from the 1950s and 1960s that exemplify potential
nificant historic school buildings in recent-past historic resources may include suburban ranch-style
Tacoma. residential areas, curtain-wall commercial buildings, drive-in restau-
rants, motels and gas stations. Further community discussion and
heightened community awareness will be needed to determine a
try direction for treatment of Tacoma's recent past historic resources.
Ongoing work by the state Department of Archeology and Historic
Preservation supports this effort.
Tacoma is home to hundreds of his-
toric churches.
t
Many properties near the 50-year age threshold (such
as the Skidmore Owings and Merrill-designed Wells
Fargo Center), could qualify as historic resources.
1-12 CITY OF TACOMA
CHAPTER 1 e HISTORIC RESOURCES
EXISTING LANDMARKS AND DISTRICTS
Many of Tacoma's historic resources are officially recognized in the national, state or local historic reg-
isters. Additional historic resources exist but have not yet been identified or formally listed. Depending
on the type of designation, historic listing may provide opportunities for specific preservation incentives
and may provide specific protections for listed properties.
Tacoma recognizes historic resources as indi-
vidual landmarks, or as contributors to its his-
toric districts. Other properties of value to the .tuDUO � -
city's heritage may also be identified in its con- '�' � � jjVZ
servation districts. The current status of these
types of designations is summarized below and ,
in Chart 1.1: Existing Historic and Conservation ,;
Districts in Tacoma on page 1-17. Additional infor-
mation on Landmarks and Districts is provided in
the Identification section of Chapter 2 ,�
LOCALLY DESIGNATED TACOMA
INDIVIDUAL HISTORIC LANDMARKS
Tacoma's Register of Historic Places lists over 130 individual historic Bob's Java Jive, built in 1929, is a
landmarks throughout the city. Individual landmark buildings repre- designated Tacoma historic land-
sent a range of historic themes, resource types and architectural mark and a rare example of historic
styles. Structures on over 30,000 properties in the city are over 50 Roadside architecture along OldHighway 99.
years old and could potentially be eligible as historic landmarks. An
expanded understanding of existing historic themes and resource
types will be necessary to inform an ongoing historic survey pro-
cess. This process will help determine which of the many potentially
eligible properties should be prioritized for designation as local his-
toric landmarks.
LOCALLY DESIGNATED TACOMA HISTORIC DISTRICTS
Tacoma has three districts listed in the local Tacoma Register, known
officially as Historic Special Review Districts. These are the North. ....
Slope, Old City Hall, and Union Depot/Warehouse Districts. In addi- The Nisqually Power Station build-
tion, the Wedge Neighborhood, the West Slope Neighborhood and ing is a designated Tacoma historic
the Whitman Area Neighborhood are being studied as potential new landmark.
locally designated historic districts. Map 1.1: Locally Designated
Tacoma Historic and Conservation Districts on page 1-18 illus-
trates locally designated historic districts and Map 1.2: Areas
Under Study as Future Locally Designated Tacoma Historic and
Conservation Districts on page 1-19 illustrates areas under study
as potential historic districts.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION PLAN 1-13
CHAPTER 1 e HISTORIC RESOURCES
North Slope Historic District
The North Slope Historic District is designated at
the local, state and national levels. Encompassing
more than 950 properties, it is one of the largest
i � t
„f residential historic districts in the country. Most
homes in the district were built from the 1880s
through the 1940s. Victorian, Craftsman, Colonial
Revival and Foursquare styles dominate the area.
Residents of the neighborhood initiated the origi-
nal historic designation and continue to promote
the protection and enhancement of the district's
historic character.
The North Slope Historic District Old City Hall Historic District
includes more than 950 residential The Old City Hall Historic District is a local, state and nationally
properties. designated historic district encompassing the city's commercial,
governmental and entertainment center. Its period of significance
ranges from 1886 through the 1920s.
Old City Hall, built in 1892, is a striking Italianate building symbol-
izing the grand aspirations of early Tacoma. Other important land-
mark buildings in the district include the 1888 Northern Pacific
Headquarters, the 1916 Elks Temple and the 1925 Winthrop Hotel.
Union Depot/Warehouse Historic District
The Union Depot/Warehouse Historic District is a local, state and
nationally designated historic district. It includes many rugged brick
Old City Hall, built in 1892, is a strik- commercial high-style and industrial vernacular style structures built
ing Italianate-style building. primarily in the early 1900s. Union Station, erected in 1911, is one
of the city's most important historic landmarks and symbolizes the
district's role as a primary railroad transportation and distribution
center.
Many historic buildings in the district have been successfully adapted
to new uses. The rehabilitation and conversion of Union Station into
a Federal Courthouse has received several preservation awards.
Just to the southwest of Union Station, a number of adjacent historic
Union Station, built in 1911, is one warehouse buildings have been converted into the Tacoma campus
of the city's most important historic of the University of Washington, which received a National Trust for
landmarks. Historic Preservation Honor Award. The re-use and rehabilitation
of the district is ongoing as additional buildings are converted into
offices, restaurants, shops and residential lofts.
1-14 CITY OF TACOMA
CHAPTER 1 e HISTORIC RESOURCES
LOCALLY DESIGNATED TACOMA
CONSERVATION DISTRICTS
In addition to local historic special review districts,
the City of Tacoma has also designated one local
conservation district.
Union Station Conservation District
The Union Station Conservation District is a locallyIF
�dl
designated conservation district surrounding the
Union Depot/Warehouse Historic District. The dis-
trict is intended to act as a buffer and ensure that adjacent develop- Some buildings that are now part
ment is compatible with the character of the Union Depot/Warehouse of the University of Washington
Historic District. Tacoma campus are located within
the Union Depot/Warehouse
Historic District.
STATE AND NATIONALLY DESIGNATED HISTORIC
DISTRICTS
In addition to the North Slope, Old City Hall and Union Depot/
Warehouse Historic Districts Tacoma has four historic districts that
are not locally designated but have either state or national designa-
tion.
The state designated Salmon
Salmon Beach Historic District Beach Historic District includes a
The Salmon Beach Historic District is a state designated historic dis- collection of waterfront cabins along
trict. It includes a collection of waterfront cabins along the Tacoma the Tacoma Narrows.
Narrows built in the early 1900s. Several cabins are in close to origi-
nal condition and are individually listed as historic landmarks.
f�i N
Stadium/Seminary Historic Districts
The Stadium/Seminary Historic District is listed as a National t1
Register Historic District.As the neighborhood of choice for the city's
early lumber barons and railroad executives, the district includes
many examples of high-style residential architecture from the late
1800s to early 1900s.
South J Street Historic District
The South J Street Historic District is a National Register Historic Stadium High School, originally
District. It is not a locally designated Tacoma historic district, Tacoma historic landmark and but built in 1891, is a locally designated
the individual properties are listed as local historic landmarks. The sits within the Stadium/Seminary
district consists of eight Late Victorian Era detached row-houses National Register Historic District.
which were constructed in 1889 and 1890. The homes are similar in (Source:Artifacts Inc.)
appearance, with only two distinct styles creating a rhythmic pattern
of bays and gables over the block.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION PLAN 1-15
CHAPTER 1 e HISTORIC RESOURCES
PROTECTING LOCALLY DESIGNATED
LANDMARKS AND DISTRICTS
All of the districts described in this chapter enjoy recognition of
their historic significance. A variety of incentives and benefits are
available to properties at all levels of historic designation. Tacoma's
locally designated historic landmarks and districts are also sub-
ject to special protection, such as design review and permitting, as
described in Chapter 2.
Note that the summary of historic resources in this chapter reflects
the status of the various official historic designations as of August,
2010. Additional historic designations may occur in the near future,
The 1906 Pythian Temple, at 926 while several remaining parts of the city may be eligible for historic
Broadway, has been preserved and designation. The tools used to identify additional historic resources
maintained in active use with the and potential districts, and the processes for designating them, are
help of small historic preservation described in Chapter 2.
grants.
1-16 CITY OF TACOMA
CHAPTER 1 e HISTORIC RESOURCES
CHART 1 . 1 : EXISTING HISTORIC AND CONSERVATION DISTRICTS IN
TACOMA
uuuuulll I!!"„""
® n IIII!ijiii
m e ae
s
s s s s
s m s
North Slope Historic District ■ ■ ■
Old City Hall Historic District ■ ■ ■
Stadium/Seminary Historic District ■ ■
South J Street Historic District' ■ ■
Union Depot/Warehouse Historic District ■ ■ ■
Union Station Conservation District ■
'Note that the structures in the South J Street Historic District are locally designated Tacoma individual historic
landmarks.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION PLAN 1-17
CHAPTER "I e HISTORIC RESOURCES
MAP 1 . l LOCALLY DESIGNATED TACOMA HISTORIC AND
CONSERVATION DISTRICTS
North Slope
Historic District �� Old City Hall
Historic District
706
Union Depot-
Warehouset 509
Historic District �%
5
Union Station
Conservation District
❑ City of Tacoma
Locally Designated
Tacoma Historic
- Districts
Locally Tacoma ConservationD
Districts
0 1 2
Miles
16- 0
1-18 CITY OF TACOMA
CHAPTER 1 e HISTORIC RESOURCES
MAP 1 .2 : AREAS UNDER STUDY AS FUTURE LOCALLY DESIGNATED
TACOMA HISTORIC AND CONSERVATION DISTRICTS
Old Town
705
i
Wedge
509
nouowu
5
West Slope
Z
Whitman
❑ City of Tacoma
Future Locally
Designated Tacoma
Historic Districts
Designated Tacoma� Future
Conservation Districts
0 1 2
Miles
LC 0
HISTORIC PRESERVATION PLAN 1-19
CHAPTER 1 e HISTORIC RESOURCES
j
/
J„
o
i uuuuu mumuuuuuVVVVVVV
/
f% � i �' �������������uuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuVVVuV �� VVVVVVVVVVVVVW°1iIIIVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVV
i ���y"�'� G%/� y�` '� � VVV VVVVVVVVVVVV���IIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIII
�l�/ ii n� / // I �ViiV�llllllllllllll ',
f,
1
1 yJJ1 1J �
1-20 CITY OF TACOMA
HISTORIC PRESERVATION PLAN
CHAPTER 2
►rAt
Many groups contribute to Tacoma's preservation program using a range of strategies
and tools that work together to form its essential components.
This chapter describes the existing state of o
each preservation program component and
provides a discussion of key questions and
issues related to each one. Policies and
actions for each program component are
described in Chapter 3.
The preservation program components are: a
Lm,ll��; W� i � A°;. l�l fm�imm.A
• Administration,The framework for operating the preserva-
tion programii i
• Identification,The survey and recognition of properties with cul- Administration ..............................2-3
tural or historic significance
• Management Tools,The specific mechanisms for protecting Identification..................................2-5
historic resources Management Tools.....................2-23
• Incentives and Benefits, Programs that assist property own-
Incentives and Benefits..............2-33
ers and support preservation
• Education,The tools to build awareness and strengthen skills Education....................................2-35
to support preservation Advocacy2-41
• Advocacy,The promotion of policies and partnerships that
support preservation
-1
CHAPTER 2e PRESERVATION PROGRAM COMPONENTS
�Ip�j While the City directs a number of the preservation program compo-
nents, some are led by other players. Historic Tacoma for example,
RIand other local non-profit groups specifically established to promote
historic preservation, as well as others who see the benefits of using
historic resources in accomplishing their individual missions, are
among those who contribute to the program.
The chart below illustrates the key components of the preservation
program. The City is directly active in the four components shown
The City and its preservation part-Hers direct the key components that on the middle line of the chart. Preservation partners often lead the
form the overall historic preserva- two activities shown on the lower line, with the City providing addi-
tion program. tional support.
CHART 2.1 : PRESERVATION PROGRAM COMPONENTS
almo= offiUmm 1=
01-M-=_ _ 0 N- M_ -=_ _
0 F1 N_ _ N_ _ W
2®2 CITY OF TACOMA
CHAPTER 2e PRESERVATION PROGRAM COMPONENTS
ADMINISTRATION
Effective administration is a critical part of a successful preservation program. It includes overall
organization, the roles of various City departments, staffing and the procedures that work to assure
effective operation of the preservation program.
A description of the components of Tacoma's PYfatY}
preservation system begins with Administration,
because it is essential for the success of all
(�af5age�fiafrt Itsce�rtt(u�s�ttd"'
the other components that are described in this
chapter. Professional staff and members of the
Landmarks Preservation Commission are thee,,,,,,,,,
core team who administer the program. Other
City planning staff, and those with allied advocacy
organizations, are also key players.
I V iI.
Ii
HISTORIC PRESERVATION OFFICE
tee °
Tacoma's Historic Preservation Office operates within the Long-
Range
p Planning Division of the City's Community and Economic
Development Department. Historic Preservation staff review nomi-
nations to Tacoma's Landmarks Register, process applications for
changes to historic landmarks, support the Landmarks Preservation
Commission, and assist the public and other government agencies The City's historic preservation
with historic preservation issues. The City's preservation staff con- office administers Tacoma's preser-
sists of one full-time preservation planner and one half-time pro- vation program.
gram coordinator.
These are among the administrative tasks of the preservation program:
• Grants writing and management
• Survey management
• Nomination processing
• Design review and compliance monitoring
• Demolition review
• Coordination of programs with other agencies
• Neighborhood meetings and other outreach events
• Assist with City-owned buildings of historic significance
• Maintain survey and register data systems
• Manage preservation components of a web site
• Information and publications
• Research
HISTORIC PRESERVATION PLAN ®3
CHAPTER 2e PRESERVATION PROGRAM COMPONENTS
ADMINISTRATION ISSUES SUMMARY:
1. Preservation goals and other City development and
sustainability policies are insufficiently integrated.
ry 2. The functions of the preservation office are not as well inte-
grated with other City activities as they should be.
fill 3. The historic preservation office lacks sufficient resources
to oversee a comprehensive preservation program such as
that set forth in this plan element.
Fi w did , 4. The program's "customers" expect quick responses to their
requests, and this is difficult to provide with the current staff
size.
The rehabilitation of historic build-
ings helps the community meet
goals for sustainability.
2®4 CITY OF TACOMA
CHAPTER 2e PRESERVATION PROGRAM COMPONENTS
IDENTIFICATION
How is it determined that a property has historic significance? Professionals in the fields of history,
historic preservation and historical architecture work with staff, commission members and advo-
cates to evaluate properties, using adopted standards that are recognized nationally. They employ
a variety of research tools to assist them in making those determinations.
Research tools include summaries of historical pat- P,f' r/ X�,,,,,,,,
terns, defined as "contexts" and "themes," along Prm
with descriptions of the typical property types and
building styles associated with them. The City'sr� � hx Lnds�u�sahef`.
Admlhisx KrCY"' Yoo(s &ehAY
Geographic Information System has also emerged
as an important tool for identifying potentially sig-
nificant resources. �5dud'66' Adt!ck4 cy
Historic surveys have identified significant resources throughout
Tacoma including a range of individual historic landmarks and dis-
tricts. As of 2011, Tacoma had over 1,300 properties listed in the
local, state and national historic registers.
a
Y
IDENTIFICATION
r� VS , DESIGNATION
N/6
tWf1 I{ flflfl1I1 cresfi�r
h ,,;hi�f�Fi�✓��a�n�fr �no� rid
tall dl rrfir� �t '°♦1
Surveys have identified historic resources throughout Tacoma.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION PLAN 2®5
CHAPTER 2: PRESERVATION PROGRAM COMPONENTS
HISTORIC THEMES AND CONTEXTS
7 "Historic themes" group information related to existing historic
resources based on a subject, specific time period or geographic
area. The relative importance of individual historic resources is bet-
ter understood by determining how they fit into a theme. Individual
historic resources may relate to more than one theme. (A few of
Tacoma's historic themes are summarized in Chapter 1.)
Historic contexts discuss the historical patterns and trends that pro-
duced individual properties in the city. Other terms are frequently
used, such as trend, pattern, or cultural affiliation, but the concept is
the same. The core premise is that properties represent interweav-
ing factors in history and did not occur in isolation. These relation-
ships are understood in the context descriptions.
A historic context includes three elements, a historical theme, geo-
graphical area, and a chronological period.
A historic context provides an essential basis for determining the
Historic contexts discuss the histori- association that a specific property may have in the history of the
cal patterns and trends that produced community and, therefore, is a key tool used to identify resources
individual properties in the city. with historic significance.
Developing Historic ContextStatements on page 3-22 i ncl udes atab le
summarizing the status of some historic contexts in Tacoma. It indi-
cates that several important context statements remain undevel-
oped, or are in need of an update.
Themes are often used to organize a historic context. For example,
N
the theme of transportation may address a variety of methods of
moving people and goods during different periods in the history of
the city. In other cases, a geographic approach may be used. A his-
toric context addressing the waterfront, for example, could include
The 1911 Murray Morgan/11th a wide range of peoples and time periods. In other cases, a chrono-
Street Bridge is a rare remaining logical approach is used. The impact of the Great Depression in
landmark on Tacoma's waterfront. It Tacoma is an example of a context that could be a snapshot of a
is currently being restored. span of time in the city's history. (Some specific themes appear in
Chapter 1, as examples.)
Tacoma has few historic contexts that have been formally devel-
oped. Some recent ones are associated with specific survey proj-
ects. A recent survey report for the Tacoma West Slope area, for
example, includes a historic context of the years immediately fol-
lowing World War 11, which relates to post-war development in the
West Slope. Materials such as these could serve as a base for more
formal historic contexts.
®6 CITY OF TACOMA
CHAPTER 2e PRESERVATION PROGRAM COMPONENTS
Another potential source for preliminary historic contexts is through �
the National Park Service Information System database. The Park
Service has digitized thousands of Multiple Property Submissions
that are a part of the records of the National Register of Historic " w
Places. While many portions must be more finely tailored to Tacoma,
these often include historic contexts of similar settings, and can at
least provide parts of a context statement that would be useful.
PROPERTY TYPES
A property type analysis occupies the middle ground between the The historic warehouse buildings
along the 700 block of Broadway
general historic context and surveys of individual properties. illustrate the industrial property type
and may be part of several econ-
At the most basic level, the city's survey form illustrates how an omy-related historic contexts.
individual property or historic district relates to the historic contexts,
and how it represents a property type, and meets requirements for
potential designation as a historic resource. See Historic Property
Types on page 1-9 for more information. r
RESOURCE IDENTIFICATION AND THE GIS
In recent years, the City's Geographic Information System (GIS)
has emerged as an important tool in developing an understanding
of where historic resources may be located and how they relate to °
other planning factors, including land use, transportation patterns f
and socioeconomics. The GIS system contains many "layers" of
information linked to individual properties in the city. It is widely used
in many departments and thus offers the capability of combining
information from individual disciplines, including preservation, with
other community programs.
Map 2.1:YearBuiltof Oldest Improvementon Parcels on page 2-10
and Map 2.2: Year Built of Oldest Improvements on Parcels With
Historic Streetcar Routes on page 2-11 demonstrate how GIS data The City's GIS database provides
can be plotted to yield pictures of different development patterns information about the age of build-
relevant to the city's history. The chart on the following page illus- ings throughout Tacoma.
trates how data from the City's GIS can be used to understand
potential categories of historic resources for identification.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION PLAN 2-7
CHAPTER 2e PRESERVATION PROGRAM COMPONENTS
CHART 2 .2 : DISTRIBUTION OF BUILDINGS IN TACOMA By AGE
13.96 20.31/0 /o
Year Built of Oldest
Improvement on Parcels
1870-1889
1890-1909
/ ❑ 1910-1929
o j
22.36/0 17.36% 1930-1949
❑ 1950-1969
1970-1989
1990-2009
10.39% 15.53%
.09%
General Observations About Building Age Distribution
� � �' The chart groups properties in 20-year segments by the earliest
date of construction. Note that the first period from 1870 to 1889
has been expanded to make it visible. A number of general obser-
vations can be made as summarized below.
Early Properties May Have a High Level of Significance
t
Only 52 structures survive from the earliest two decades of 1870 to
1889. The small number of properties in the category indicates their
»� rarity and potential importance as historic resources. (Also see the
discussion on tiered rating systems under New Survey Techniques
on page 2-17).
Almost Half of Existing Propertiesv trctr Over
60 Years Old
47% of existing properties include structures that are more than 60
years old. Some properties within this category form the core of
Almost half of Tacoma's existing what has been traditionally considered to be historically significant
structures are more than 60 years resources of Tacoma. This suggests that a substantial portion of
old. the city's structures could have historic significance and that future
surveys may identify more of them as such.
2-8 CITY OF TACOMA
CHAPTER 2e PRESERVATION PROGRAM COMPONENTS
In other cases, it may indicate that groups of build-
ings from these time periods would be in areas
that could be appropriate for designation as con-
servation districts. A character-based analysis in %.
those places may yield more information.
rr f f
Of the large number of structures in Tacoma
that are over 60 years old, many were built with
durable materials and in ways that are likely to
be adaptable to energy conservation initiatives.
Retaining these structures will be important to
support sustainability goals and programs.
Many Structures May Be Considered as ,F '
"Recent Past"Resources
20% of existing properties include structures that date from 1950 to Many structures in Tacoma will pass
1969. Even the most recent structures in this category will reach 50 the 50-year age mark in the coming
years of age in 2020. This is a period of the "recent past" that may decades.
now be considered for potential historic significance. Despite meet BUILDINGAGE AND
-
ing the age threshold, many of these structures may not be consid HISTORIC SIGNIFICANCE
-
ered to have historic significance. They may, however, be included
in conservation districts.See Conservation Districts on page 3-40 for lrr ends d
more information.
Design issues related to these newer properties sometimes will be
different from those of buildings from earlier periods. When preser-
vation design guidelines are updated, this must be taken into con-
third off thr� c�fy����i�tin�bu�fdih�
sideration.
fhh os «g dc ,,,th�,,
Many Structures Will Not Be Considered for Potentials , , {
Historic Significance Until the Mid 21st Century. Ltd infrp C�fttt t<
The remaining third of the existing buildings (33%) dates from 1970
to the present day. Few of these properties are likely to be eligible
for consideration as historic resources until the mid 21 st Century.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION PLAN 2®9
CHAPTER 2e PRESERVATION PROGRAM COMPONENTS
MAP 2 . 1 : YEAR BUILT OF OLDEST IMPROVEMENT ON
PARCELS
LAE
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a lMlp
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4
1
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f IIVWIN41i 4�illbl%III I� 'i 1MF j�v'�f r % R ��'.il pi May�' �/ I(
S n61}'n �T f'NB � mN'RM 14 J"qf to y h hY V� I�„ 1 N"'NIII."' u'Ww. fk
�
�,��i�iii;i%�!, ii
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�1�sluf� ➢4 r r � 14 �
% 1 Yaxuw"Im t ni t nLIY��Yk�a' 16 �I ��IW City of Tacoma
P" r»m wW
II h1 �1 „ �. ;ru�rIVlanl+wp �I Year Built of Oldest
Improvement on Parcels
■1 9� �111�1� 1873-1900
el a1
011 p 1 auIfPt au m� � 3
1901 —1935
I�
U(H1e1iG
" I m ;11 C112Pr I�
�000w M� a 1�`o Ip 6'W}��n u* "4; ifd9,tuY� 1936—1965
�auG�r �� • 1 11�� I�iNF��r�111�
11110
arrow 1 � 1 �1 1966—2010
1Y 1rM wa ro�� ;1111�II
The City's map data indicates potential
locations of structures that may be eligibleu�"��� I� °aT � i
S �11nt,, Bn1N 0 1 2
for consideration as historic resources. The m � I �. , .
greatest concentrations of early structures Miles
appear near downtown and along hilltops
facing north and west. Other concentrations
reflect development along streetcar lines. 0
2-10 CITY OF TACOMA
CHAPTER 2e PRESERVATION PROGRAM COMPONENTS
MAP 2 . 2 : YEAR BUILT OF OLDEST IMPROVEMENTS ON
PARCELS WITH HISTORIC STREETCAR ROUTES
9 9 Ta D III"W tllf
of
Nil R
Oiqj
��Bflfliil�kUl 6 "� " � r`I��r h wl
��alPr" r°cb
iliM
m�Btl difiliiim
I
Iyp�II^pppyyl� N yyryry A R s
UN�I M 6+ AIW
xe
�
' q° City of Tacoma
NUAL
1 u I may Historic Streetcar
��'s� Wb" �r4aim , wy'I�tt
Routes
Year Built of Oldest
Af n ir�Pn� Improvement on Parcels
1 �. eau fIR111fXu �a n a x � flt
" r id� A � a 1873-1900
�9 ' I `n vn
J
'�f+N9� I�rvr I : IIV'ta i1i�i��ia" � �� �.� ; 1901 —1935
Lh°r%w�s
°dR dab r� ��rII�f epu4d hYd �' Ir "m
d dI f I taut 1936-1965
A
0
1966—2010
fft' � r� 91H�II
Earl streetcar routes shaped the cit 's � .� �,�;� ��
development patterns, enabling settlement �u � � � i 0 1 z
to stretch further from downtown and the m
si tsu,
p.
waterfront and giving rise to neighborhood miles
service centers. Former streetcar routes
indicate where areas of historic significance
are likely to occur. 0
HISTORIC PRESERVATION PLAN -11
CHAPTER 2e PRESERVATION PROGRAM COMPONENTS
SURVEYS
Historic resource surveys collect information about
the history and disposition of properties citywide
t,
or in selected areas. They use adopted criteria for
determining which properties or districts have his-
toric or archeological significance.
The survey process includes a field inspection,
collecting historic information about the physical
and cultural history of the property and document-
ing it in photographs, drawings and maps.A survey should include a
listing of all of the properties researched, indicating the significance
p of each of the resources and, where applicable, should also include
a description of the general character of the district. Additionally, the
r
survey should include a definition of the key characteristics of indi-
vidual properties as well as the defining characteristics of groups of
neighborhoods or groups of buildings.
For archaeological surveys, fieldwork is commonly required to
Cultural resource surveys iden- assess significance. In many cases this involves the placement of
tify which properties have historic hand-excavated probes to analyze site stratigraphy and identify any
or archaeological significance in artifacts and subsurface deposits. The final product of any cultural
Tacoma. resource study is a full and detailed report documenting the meth-
ods and results of the survey.
Tacoma's process for identifying and then designating properties
of historical significance and neighborhoods of conservation value
consists of four steps as summarized in Chart 2.3 on page 2-13.This
orderly sequence provides for reasoned consideration of the signifi-
cance of properties, and for the best approach to designation that
will meet objectives for the resource.
2-12 CITY OF TACOMA
CHAPTER 2e PRESERVATION PROGRAM COMPONENTS
CHART 2.3: CITY OF TACOMA SURVEY AND HISTORIC RESOURCE LISTING
PROCESSES
Identification Historic ResourceListing'
4a:
Step 1: Step 2: Step 3: Step 4: 4b:
Conduct the survey, Evaluate for signifi- Determine best Initiate the appro- 4c:
using prescribed cance and character designation strategy, priate designation
format and proce- value. considering survey action.
dures. findings and other
planning policies,
goals and objectives RE
for the area.
'Note that the survey process may include only the identification steps (survey and evaluation)and does not automatically
proceed into the historic resource listing steps (potential designation of eligible historic resources).
HISTORIC PRESERVATION PLAN -13
CHAPTER 2e PRESERVATION PROGRAM COMPONENTS
Existing Surveys (2010)
Tacoma's existing surveys cover individual areas
of the city and date back as far as 1977. Some
identify only those properties that are of historic
significance and do not address more modest
resources that may contribute to the overall historic
character of an area. In addition, most early sur-
veys omit properties that do not contribute to the
� oog1 historic character of an area. While this approach
was sufficient at the time to identify a potential his-
toric district, it is less useful as a planning tool.
This results in less predictability for property own-
ers because the status of their properties may be
unclear, requiring a case-by-case determination of
historic significance.
Variations in the amount of information provided
by older surveys also means that the most impor-
tant features of historic properties are not always
' documented. This information is important to
have available when a property owner is plan-
'i�i'' � ning improvements, because it helps them identify
those features that should be preserved.
The 1925 Romanesque-style First Tacoma has undertaken some survey updates in recent years, but
Presbyterian Church building is like many communities, it is substantially behind. From time to time,
located at 20 Tacoma Avenue the City is able to fund surveys of small areas, usually with grants.
South. A survey of Tacoma's reli-
gious structures and properties was Priority should be given to surveying, with emphasis placed upon
completed in 2009. areas that are targeted for redevelopment, or where pressure for
demolition is anticipated.
Survey Status Update
A 2008 Status Update on Historic Surveys cites a need to com-
plete a city-wide comprehensive survey. Other specific contexts or
resource types identified in the report in need of surveying include:
• Religious structures and properties (Completed 2009)
• Educational facilities (Expected completion - winter 2010)
• Mid-century buildings (those constructed after 1941)
• Surveys in West End, East Tacoma, and Central Area
2-14 CITY OF TACOMA
CHAPTER 2e PRESERVATION PROGRAM COMPONENTS
MAP 2 .3 : HISTORIC PROPERTY SURVEY STATUS
Northeast
surveyed
12/79
North End
surveyed
r4/81
16 West End North Slope Port Industrial
surveyed 1980 surveyed surveyed 7/81;
� F2003"
����,�CBp updated 2003
suweyed 5/81
Central `
surveyed 5/81; 705
updated 2003
509
Hilltop
surveyed 1993;
u dated 2004
p
WE
City of Tacoma
5 0 1 2
Eastside'
surveyed Miles
0
uth Tacoma � 2/81%
sunre ed
Y
4/81;u dated 2005;2006
p
r
South End
surveyed 1981;
updated 1997,2005,2006
Historic surveys have been completed
throughout Tacoma. The surveys for
some areas, however, are out of date.
Survey quality also varies considerably LLM
from area to area.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION PLAN 2-15
CHAPTER 2: PRESERVATION PROGRAM COMPONENTS
CHART 2 .,4| CITY OF TAC O M& CULTURAL RESOURCE SURVEY STATUS
0 0 0 ) E
G G G ) )
] ] ] o 0
) 7 7 7 ) ) ) ) ) )
] ; ; ; ; ; ] ] ] ]
Q k k k k ) Q Q Q Q
k k k k
- ' ■
( } ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■
■ ■ ■ ■ ■
\
q
# # # e # 2
r ¥ c = F - o = ram = o = oo -
/ / / �/ ƒ ƒ �0 m 0 N ƒ ƒ
q q q q q - o
\ \ ƒ ^ ƒ /
2
2 / ƒ C §
/ zs
2 = /
/ \ 5 \ I % § = 2
7 = = o £
g .� } / /± / I k m
t \ / / \ E / ) 2 / §
/ 7 '� : _ ƒ m / § / = 7
= g c 7 o o E _ _ '= R o f ƒ
E o
/ U / / tcz
/ / / / / / /
m
- E s o o
\ 2 z f e \ e = _ = o o o = o o I o
z O m m 2 2 2 / o z z E o m m3: L
2.16 CITY of TACO MA
CHAPTER 2e PRESERVATION PROGRAM COMPONENTS
New Survey Techniques //,!°a
New technologies now allow data gathering and .��� �'��''
evaluation to occur more efficiently. An impor-
tant innovation is linking survey data through the
City's Geographic Information System. Combining
historic records and building permit information
in Geographic Information Systems improves
recording and access to a wide range of property
information.
Additional data may also be gathered by allowing property own- In a tiered survey system,structures
ers to upload information about their properties to a City web site. may be listed with varying levels of
When combined, these new technologies can support ongoing sur- historic integrity.
vey efforts that ensure up-to-date documentation of a community's TIERED SURVEY
historic resources. EXAMPLES
Some communities are also using a tiered survey system that indi- ,,,,,,,,,,,,,,
/"""I/arO//////%/
FcfF Fn�h i
Cates varying levels of integrity and significance for historic struc- !!
fill ply a va f F ire
tares. Such a survey may also identify new buildings that are com-
patible with their context. A tiered survey can be linked to a variety hltw // � � norrrd tt ,
of planning objectives, or be calibrated to fit differing benefits and wh�oh frhh(rlrptxsfifyft
incentives, or review and permitting processes. For example, prop- drres�i ""
erties with a high level of historic significance may be subject to
//r,//// r rrrrrrrrrrrrr,
review by the Landmarks Preservation Commission, whereas those Nayh {aoadr�b{ t
of a lesser level may be handled by staff. (Recommendations related (mtrYhbG „ f' rrrr� rnt
to GIS and tiered surveys appear in Chapter 3.) g°rye °fhtfc�irsUrohsU(d
of /r@rmi%%ice/%%///////// %
HISTORIC PRESERVATION PLAN 2-17
CHAPTER 2e PRESERVATION PROGRAM COMPONENTS
//////EN,
HISTORIC RESOURCE DESIGNATION
Properties and districts officially designated as having historic sig-
nificance are listed in national, state and/or local historic registers.
Eligibility for historic designation is generally determined during a
historic resource survey. However, it is important to note that not all
eligible properties are officially designated and listed in a historic
register. Designated historic resources are protected using the man-
agement tools described in this chapter.
Historic resources in Tacoma may be officially listed in the National
Register of Historic Places, the Washington Heritage Register or
the Tacoma Register of Historic Places. Properties may be listed in
multiple registers with each listing relating to specific benefits and
The 1910 YMCA building at 714 requirements.
Market Street is listed in both the
National Register of Historic Places
and Tacoma Register of Historic
Places. It has been rehabilitated
and converted into condominiums.
2-18 CITY OF TACOMA
CHAPTER 2e PRESERVATION PROGRAM COMPONENTS
National and State Historic Registers
Nominations to the National Register of Historic Places are reviewed
by the State Historic Preservation Officer and the Washington State
Advisory Council on Historic Preservation. If the nomination is suc-
cessful at the state level, a recommendation is forwarded for final
determination and listing on the national register. Nominations ° "
to the Washington State Heritage Register are approved by the
Washington State Advisory Council on Historic Preservation.
National or state listing provides benefits such as tax incentives.
With the exception of projects subject to shoreline, environmental Properties listed in the Tacoma
Register of Historic Places, includ-
or other special review, national or state listed properties are not ing homes located in the North
subject to additional regulations. Slope Historic District, may be eli-
gible for incentives and benefits.
Tacoma Register of Historic Places
Those resources listed in the Tacoma Register of Historic Places RESOURCE INVENTORY
are a key focus of local preservation efforts. Locally designated vs. HISTORIC REGISTER
properties may be listed in one of three categories:
FitQric,,,,R+�sc�ur�� .Inveritc�ry 'ram,,, „
• Individually Listed Historic Landmarkshhfete � Iff
Am
ccsfleoffoh cif httr� urle artf
• Historic Special Review Districts
• Conservation Districts t", st
pled rnfc�t�n�tfbh uu�l(��p�r���rkr
Properties listed in the Tacoma Register of Historic Places may t! tb � ..
be eligible for benefits such as the Special Tax Valuation program. hWhir�� rghrfrPah `�a11y�� �����
oh hitr�r� rsource an°�iryr '
Alterations to the properties are also subject to design review by the ncstffr�ally"" etgnhfrf
Landmarks Preservation Commission. See page 1-17 for a sum- andrnfr ,,,hIfdn .h .
mary of locally designated Tacoma historic landmarks and districts. bdd/ to
FistQric Rgi�t�r r�r���tehfn#hit r�"°
cif Higthob✓%�Ples�
ii
ca�
«si„� R�gltet �f Hrs�rr���
HISTORIC PRESERVATION PLAN -19
CHAPTER 2e PRESERVATION PROGRAM COMPONENTS
Locally Designated Tacoma Individual
Historic Landmarks
To be eligible for listing as a locally designated
Tacoma individual historic landmark, properties
F must first meet a set of threshold criteria related to
age and integrity, and then must meet at least one
, of six criteria related to significance.
Threshold criteria are:
1. A property must be 50 years old or older at the
time of nomination.
2. A property must retain integrity of location,
design, setting, materials, workmanship, feeling,
and association such that it is able to convey its
historical, cultural, or architectural significance.
The 1918 Rialto Theater at 310 South
9th Street isa locally designated Tacoma Once threshold criteria have been met, properties are reviewed for
individual historic landmark and is also historic significance using six additional criteria as provided in the
listed in the national and state historic City's Title 13 Land Use Regulatory Code.
registers.
Official consideration of listing a property begins with a formal
request. Any city resident, City staff, and members of City Council,
Im
the Landmarks Preservation Commission and the Planning
Commission may nominate a landmark. Nominations first go
through a preliminary review before the Landmarks Preservation
�n.�' Commission. If the Commission finds that the property meets the
Individually listed historic land- threshold criteria, it will be scheduled for a special public meeting.
marks should embody the distinc- If approved, the nomination is then forwarded to City Council. The
tive characteristics of a type, period City Council votes on the designation at its next available agenda.
or method of construction.
2-20 CITY OF TACOMA
CHAPTER e PRESERVATION PROGRAM COMPONENTS
Locally Designated Tacoma HistoricDistricts
To be eligible for designation as a Historic Special "
Review District, a district must meet both the cri-
teria for individual designation and must be found
to contain a concentration of structures having
a special character or special historic, cultural
i
architectural, engineering, or geographic interest '
or value. In addition, the area must be found to
constitute a distinct section of the city.
Designation as a Historic Special Review District
is initiated through a nomination process. As with
an individual landmark, this is then reviewed by
the Landmarks Preservation Commission and, if
approved, referred to the Planning Commission,
which may recommend to City Council that they
establish the proposed district.
Locally Designated Tacoma Conservation Districts The 1889 Bostwick Building at 755
A conservation district may be established in conjunction with St. Helens Avenue is a locally des-
a Historic District. To be designated, a conservation district must ignated Tacoma individual historic
be found to possess special historic, architectural, or cultural sig- landmark and is also in the OldCity Hall National Register Historic
nificance that is a part of the heritage of the city as well as his- District.
toric character which shares, or is sympathetic to, the development
patterns and period of significance of the adjacent historic district. POTENTIAL
Conservation districts are not required to meet the criteria for locally DISTRICTS
designated Tacoma historic districts.
The conservation district was established to be used as a protective tvluirr
edge to a historic district, but there is no clear policy difference for fllrit������ ��„�,
h1WFl �
the treatment of properties within a historic district as compared to o �����
a conservation district. In addition, the same design review process
P61fr � � �
g p hio,"i", hd o6h". 6
and guidelines are used to evaluate projects in both Historic Special tish ditn � rpresdd;;�r h
Review Districts and conservation districts. Chapter 3 includes addi-
tional discussion of the current and potential future role of conserva-
tion districts in Tacoma.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION PLAN ® 1
CHAPTER 2e PRESERVATION PROGRAM COMPONENTS
IDENTIFICATION AND HISTORIC RESOURCE
LISTING ISSUES SUMMARY
• Incomplete or inconsistent survey information results in a
lack of predictability in their treatment.
• Surveys should provide sufficient information for use at the
local level as administrative/property management tools.
• Old surveys do not always provide sufficient information
about the key defining features of properties.
Some have asked if the survey can indicate differing levels
of significance to aid in management and treatment deci-
sions.
• The differences between national, state and local historic
u 1 00 designations are not well understood among the general
public.
'I
g g
uidenti-
fied.
historic resources may be insufficient)
p Y Y
Historic resources should be con- Survey findings of historic significance (which are informa-
sistently identified throughout the tional) are often assumed to lead directly to designation as
community. an official historic resource.
• There is a lack of distinction between historic districts and
conservation districts.
• Many potentially eligible districts are not designated.
2-22 CITY OF TACOMA
CHAPTER 2e PRESERVATION PROGRAM COMPONENTS
MANAGEMENT TOOLS
Management tools are the mechanisms for protecting historic resources and providing technical assistance.
The City seeks to streamline preservation management tools to accomplish its goals in the most efficient way.
This includes simplifying design review and some related forms of permitting.
Tacoma's primary management tools are the ordi-
nances that guide historic reservation efforts ast � i5�
g p Prc���ar�
well as underlying zoning regulations, the design
review process and design guidelines that man-
,
age treatment of the city s historic resources.
These provide an effective framework for preser-
vation. In some cases, however, individual tools E5dUd9
Zack sufficient clarity or they conflict with others.
ORDINANCES ��iri�hiiWorhMid ,luo �
Ordinances bundled into the Tacoma Municipal Code establish the
basic rules for construction related to historic resources and set
forth the process for establishing protections for them. In addition to
the International Existing Buildings Code (IEBC), several chapters of the Municipal Code relate to historic preservation. They are:
• Landmarks and Historic Special Review Districts Code
t
(Chapter 13.07)
• Landmarks Preservation Commission Code (Chapter 1.42)
• Zoning (Chapter 13.06)
• Waterfront Structures and Marina Code (Chapter 2.13) The Crules for construction related
s ordinances establish the
• Environmental Code (Chapter 13.12) basic rules
to historic resources.
Each of the key ordinances that address historic preservation in
Tacoma are summarized in the following pages.
® I
A series of districts and tools described within the City's ordinances
provide the framework for a heritage conservation system that protects
neighborhood character and historic resources. Note that the historic
preservation program does not play a direct role in the administra-
tion of zone districts. See Zoning Code on page 2-25 and The Heritage
Conservation System on page 3-36 for more information.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION PLAN 2-23
CHAPTER 2e PRESERVATION PROGRAM COMPONENTS
Landmarks and Historic Special Review
Districts Code
As a part of the municipal code,the Landmarks and
Historic Special Review Districts section is the pri-
mary mechanism for protecting historic resources.
�. This ordinance states the purpose of the City's
goals and responsibilities to promote preservation,
enhance awareness and protect the finite resources
that define the community. It establishes criteria for
the designation of buildings and districts, as well as
, policies and review procedures for their treatment.
The Landmarks and Historic The code loosely follows the format of Washington State's model
Special Review Districts section of historic preservation code, with the addition of sections adopting
the municipal code is the primary historic special review districts and their associated guidelines.
mechanism for protecting Tacoma's
historic resources. The landmarks code lacks clarity in several areas. Some of these
are minor or procedural issues, whereas others are program-wide.
One of the main areas of concern is a lack of distinction between a
conservation district and a Historic District, including what levels of
review and protection they provide for properties within them.
Other topics are not addressed at all in the existing code but should
be.Among these are tools for maintaining the character of traditional
neighborhoods, providing an emergency response mechanism for
historic properties and preventing demolition by neglect. Demolition
is discussed in more detail in the section below.
Landmarks Preservation Commission Code
The Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC) is established in
Tacoma Municipal Code Section 1.42. The Commission reviews
and approves applications for changes to registered landmarks
and buildings within local historic districts, reviews nominations and
advises City Council regarding additions to the Landmarks Register,
and participates in the planning process. The Commission consists
of eleven members, eight of whom must be Tacoma residents with
professional experience in the fields of architecture, history, plan-
ning, construction, engineering, real estate, the arts and art history,
in addition to three at large members.
2-24 CITY OF TACOMA
CHAPTER 2e PRESERVATION PROGRAM COMPONENTS
Zoning Code
The basic regulations that shape development
throughout Tacoma are part of the city s zon-
ing code, which is provided in chapter 13.06 of
the Tacoma Municipal Code. The zoning code
defines permitted uses and densities as well as
dimensional limits such as setbacks and building
heights. These regulations apply to both historic
and non-historic properties.
The zoning code includes base zone districts and overlay districts. The View-Sensitive Overlay enables
Base zone districts provide the regulations that apply to all properties additional height regulations in areas
throughout the city while overlays provide additional context-specific where views should be protected.
regulations in certain areas. The code includes base zone districts MIXED-USE CENTER
for residential, commercial, industrial and other uses at varying den DISTRICTS
-
sities and scales. Special districts such as downtown districts and
Mixed-Use Center Districts (see Mixed-Use Center Districts at right
for more information) apply to specific areas.The code also includes shi /of dafnriihddars
overlay districts such as the View-Sensitive Overlay, which enables m-sta � d � ra , str�s
endE ////,rntrtrh ref Ihd
special height regulations in view-sensitive areas. Additional design
overlay districts may be developed to implement neighborhood-spe- 0tfrf /;;;// %� �th�h1,ec
cific zoningstandards as art of an overall heritage conservation
p g r�trf'rg, n�'f�hhc�Fh�s�c� o�shn�ne�o� I`
system.See The Heritage Conservation Systemon page 3-36f or more c ht t // h f F lu jl d6t
information. g
srsundd;;;;by;lt+`° f; tr /
In some cases, the requirements of existing zoning districts may tisfaf° idhtilrfhbpFhsd """""
conflict with goals and objectives for historic preservation because
the allow for development that is out of character with the historic
Y p
pattern. For example, if maintaining low scale is a goal, zoning regu- 011' ht
Iations that allow significant height increases could be incompatible. p,1,111111
rs
In other cases, zoning regulations may be incompatible with preser-
p r hg r q�r�r�m�f.. .....
vation goals because they are too restrictive. For example, if a goal
is to preserve the character of a neighborhood where houses were fbr�ldlutrt �y hif�frrhtro
typically built very close together, zoning regulations that require a rfrk�<fitdh
significant setback between properties could be incompatible.
cif liar
g p p p tCSI'1,�✓//��c�/'r/j/' i�8iiiiiiiiiiA,�iiiiir�`��'r���,��;;;;;1 rl[
Building Code ',��,,,,,,//
Requirements for fire safety, emergency exiting, seismic mitiga-
tion and other construction-related issues are part of the building tybd(a'tI /b % �"iN`
code. The City uses the International Existing Building Code for hil' i ho �c t d oUfs�d
projects involving historic structures. City staff can assist applicants
with flexible design solutions that promote preservation objectives
and meet code requirements. However, applicants must balance
requirements made by other City departments without the benefit
of a staff team leader to coordinate preservation-friendly solutions.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION PLAN —25
CHAPTER 2e PRESERVATION PROGRAM COMPONENTS
DEMOLITION-RELATED TOOLS
Tools that prevent or discourage the demolition
of historic resources are essential elements of a
city's preservation system. Each loss of a historic
structure raises questions about the effectiveness
of the preservation system.
Sometimes a property is neglected until it must
be demolished. These cases of "demolition b
neglect may reflect many causes including:
An owner cannot afford the necessarymain-
tenance because of personal financial circum-
stances, or
An owner is unwilling to invest in the struc-
ture, or
• An owner anticipates reuse opportunities for
the site that seem to be greater without the
historic structure being there, or
• There is no apparent viable economic use for
the property, or
• An owner is disinterested or unaware of the
condition of the property
The Burnham and Root designed At a certain point, the decay becomes so substantial that the City's
Luzon Building was demolished as building official must cite the property as a hazard to public safety.
a safety hazard in 2009 after sev- Most local preservation ordinances acknowledge that, when this
eral decades of neglect.
state is reached, the property may be demolished. The objective,
however, is to avoid having a property reach this state.
Typically, by the time a building reaches this stage, it has already
passed a point at which many of the architectural details and build-
ing components that contribute to its significance have deteriorated
to a point beyond repair. That is, when it reaches a public safety
hazard stage, the building may have already lost its integrity as a
historic resource. The challenge, therefore, is to interrupt the cycle
before decay reaches this stage.
-26 CITY OF TACOMA
CHAPTER 2e PRESERVATION PROGRAM COMPONENTS
Tools to Prevent the Loss of Historic
Resources
Tacoma's primary demolition prevention tool is a
requirement for a demolition permit. Other strate-
gies to protect historic resources from demolition
include direct intervention, and incentives as well
as working to create a climate that encourages
good stewardship. Because the appropriate tools
will vary with the circumstances of the case, the
most effective preservation programs use these
tools:
• Property owner notices of need to repair Minimum maintenance require-
Publication of endangered property lists (often managed by ments and other tools help prevent
preservation partners) the loss of historic resources.
• Emergency protection clauses in the ordinance
• Minimum maintenance requirements
• Forced sale or condemnation
• Emergency preservation funds
• Removal of inverse incentives
• Creating a supportive economic environment
When demolition is proposed, the question of economic viability typ-
ically arises.At present, there is not a clear set of criteria to evaluate
the feasibility of preserving a structure.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION PLAN -27
CHAPTER 2e PRESERVATION PROGRAM COMPONENTS
DESIGN REVIEW
I
Design review is a collaborative process used to
Y examine public and private projects for their aes-
thetic, architectural, or urban design quality, his-
�I��yi ' ' toric appropriateness and compatibility with sur-
r rounding context. A well organized design review
process helps protect a community's historic char-
acter. It is a management tool that applies in addi-
tion to zoning regulations that may provide some
context-sensitive standards.
A well organized design review pro- Tacoma's Building and Land Use Division staff review improve-
cess helps protect a community's ments to all properties in Tacoma to ensure compliance with zon-
historic character.
ing, building code and other base regulations. Designated city land-
marks and properties within a conservation or historic district also
undergo additional design review by the Landmarks Preservation
Commission. In general, only exterior work that is visible from the
public way must go through design review.
In some instances, such as for larger or more complex projects,
a pre-application meeting or Landmarks Preservation Commission
briefing is available. If the Commission finds the proposed work
meets the City's standards for historic preservation, they will issue
a certificate of approval.
In order to determine the appropriateness of a proposed improve-
ment, the City uses these criteria:
• The Secretary of the Interior's Standards for Treatment of
Historic Properties
• The National Park Service's Preservation Briefs
• Locally-adopted Historic District Design Guidelines (for
individual historic districts where applicable)
While the Secretary of the Interior's Standards and the Preservation
Briefs provide valuable guidance, they are not specific to Tacoma's
historic resources and may be difficult for the public to understand.
The basic principles set forth in these documents are therefore
adapted to local resources in the City's own design guidelines. As a
result, Tacoma's local design guidelines provide some of the most
critical review criteria.
2-28 CITY OF TACOMA
CHAPTER 2e PRESERVATION PROGRAM COMPONENTS
Local Design Guidelines
Design guidelines provide objective criteria for LanafmamksA. ""—"reservaEiaa Cnmrrntls�,a�
determining the appropriateness of proposed "'°""°"°°• ^
work affecting historic resources. They inform ae» a�rannsan ,„ ,���n ___..
lAtdom[tiapanglMarsMrusa fABsdrlce_...._
property owner in advance of how a proposal will
'N1amP h,A ' TI ,N"iRtL� flpNmuliMr be evaluated.
it 1 kWP'w p 1 tl>
mN rN ( ��kq I,hrtpu ti1G 4xdlm5
Effective guidelines provide clear examples of aw "
P ,hIM by HIM6.pyM R
UY R^'Y I M RSIW M e,.ry y Y'Wx M YM4Ge.1RY spy oNU'k*'MW
U N19 Wn6#N) "'ru tt)'uw.r f
appropriate and inappropriate design treatmentsN
+ttbu ni M .M uv 1 ro.Mww01k
using local examples. They also define the range ' Y� r
of flexibility that may be available for alterations
and additions to properties. They also can help to
m;tarx'nwweP cRavwx l
�1��6Prlrt�
identify which features are significant and should
be preserved, and conversely, which features are
less critical to the integrity of a historic resource,
�PI �I 11 1 thereby indicating where greater flexibility may be
afforded. Such guidelines are especially important
for administrative reviews related to recent past
properties.
Design guidelines should address sustainability, including energy Tacoma has published custom-
conservation and generation. They should also provide help in tailored design guidelines for two
resolving apparent conflicts between preservation and sustainability. historic districts including the Union
Depot/Warehouse Historic District.
Tacoma has published custom-tailored design guidelines for two of
its historic districts. They guide the design review process for work
involving officially designated historic resources and provide an
advisory tool for non-designated resources that may have historic
significance.
These existing guidelines generally provide a good base by which
to consider treatment of historic properties. However, few guide-
lines include adequate illustrations and many lack a sufficient level
of detail on specific design topics to provide clear guidance for deci-
sion-making.
Some districts lack their own design guidelines and in these cases
the City must use the Secretary of the Interior's Standards. As a
result, different levels of details are used in different districts in the
city. Even though the underlying principles are the same for all these
districts, there is a potential that the review process can be consid-
ered confusing, or even inconsistent. Some cities address this issue
by crafting a general set of guidelines that apply to all resources and
then supplement these with additional guidelines tailored to each
district.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION PLAN -29
CHAPTER 2e PRESERVATION PROGRAM COMPONENTS
Landmarks Preservation Commission
Design Review in the Broader Context
The design review process in the preservation
program occurs in the context of other City reg-
ulations that affect the character of building and
neighborhoods. Base zoning, for example, estab-
lishes maximum potential building envelopes,
using simple tools for minimum setbacks, lot
coverage (or minimum yard space) and building
height. In addition, the City uses special overlay
designations where other forms of design review
may occur.
As the preservation review process is refined, it
will be important to consider how it interacts with
other regulations. In some cases, modifying the
Design guidelines provide objective underlying zoning in an established historic district to more closely
criteria for determining the appropri- reflect historic development patterns would reduce potential con-
ateness of proposed work affecting flicts in design review. In other neighborhoods that are not desig-
historic resources.
nated as historic districts, or perhaps are designated as conserva-
tion districts, adjusting the underlying zoning may be the only tool
needed. For example, the permitted maximum building area would
be calibrated to be more in keeping with traditional development
patterns, and may be sufficient in some places to protect character.
The City may also consider introducing more form-based standards
in the zoning code over time. These can also help protect neigh-
borhood character, including places that are in historic and conser-
vation districts. The extent to which the underlying zoning can be
better synchronized with design objectives for an area, the more
effective the system can be.
-30 CITY OF TACOMA
CHAPTER 2e PRESERVATION PROGRAM COMPONENTS
COMPLIANCE PROCESS ����h������������I� , �I
Enforcement and compliance of historic preserva-
tion ordinances is an ongoing issue in many com-
munities, including Tacoma. Some construction
work may be executed without required approv-
als, or deviate from approved plans. Addressing
this issue requires clear documentation of what
MY'" iYtYl+ii111ihY�i
has been permitted as well as active field monitor-
ing and enforcement. �
To promote compliance with preservation ordi-
nances, Tacoma's historic preservation staff
has worked with building inspectors and the � �»
Landmarks Preservation Commission to adopt a
priority system.
Monitoring construction in the field
is important to an effective compli-
ance program.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION PLAN -31
CHAPTER 2e PRESERVATION PROGRAM COMPONENTS
MANAGEMENT TOOLS ISSUES SUMMARY
Overall Issues
• Existing tools are not sufficient to ensure maintenance of
i 1 historic resources.
Existing tools are not sufficient to prevent the demolition of
historic structures.
p, "'Qu, Existing tools do not address new trends in preservation,
7 such as sustainability, recent past resources, and integra-
tion with other planning objectives and policies.
Ordinance Issues
• Technical clean-up of existing codes is needed.
Existing tools do not address new The existing zoning code includes provisions that may
trends in preservation, such as conflict with preservation objectives. Existing issues as of
sustainability,recentpast resources, August, 2010 include:
and integration with other planning » The HMR-SRD residential zone district allows the
objectives and policies. Landmarks Preservation Commission to except historic
properties from zoning standards when there is a con-
flict with historic goals, but this is not available in other
districts.
• The View-Sensitive Overlay does not include excep-
tions for historic structures, such as for reconstruction
of a documented historical feature.
• The design standards that apply in the special down-
town zone districts do not include exceptions for older
buildings that are not specifically designated as historic.
Designvi Issues
• Design review criteria are not specific to Tacoma's
resources.
• Design guidelines do not describe or illustrate desired
design responses.
• Design guidelines for different districts address varying
levels of detail.
• Guidelines do not exist to address the general treatment of
historic resources citywide.
-32 CITY OF TACOMA
CHAPTER 2e PRESERVATION PROGRAM COMPONENTS
INCENTIVES AND BENEFITS
Effective preservation programs offer special benefits to stimulate investment in historic properties, encour-
age owners to follow appropriate rehabilitation procedures, and assist those with limited budgets. This may
include:
• Financial or technical assistance
• Tax or regulatory relief, such as streamlined Prrvrr�
review
• Special flexibility in building codes
k<( Id,�661 azr6:,,,,, lfanagefiant
Many historic properties in Tacoma maybe eligible
for the Federal Historic Rehabilitation Tax Credit
and the Washington State Special Tax Valuation. �5dud'66'';;;;;;;; Adu Y
FEDERAL REHABILITATION TAX CREDIT PROGRAM (HRTC)
The Historic Rehabilitation Tax Credit Program is a one-time federal
income tax credit for costs associated with the certified rehabilitation ro'�
of historic buildings.
Features:
• Applies only to income-producing properties.
• The National Park Service and the IRS jointly administer
the program.
• The Washington State Department of Archaeology and
Historic Preservation (DAHP) coordinates the certification
of projects.
WASHINGTON STATE SPECIAL TAX VALUATION
Washington State allows local governments to offer tax relief for his-
toric property owners in the form of reduced property taxes. This is
a very effective tool, and is the key preservation incentive for many
property owners.
Features:
• Provides for a "special valuation" of the property with Owners of historic homes who
reduced property taxes. complete appropriate rehabilitation
• Extends for a period of ten years. projects may be eligible for specific
• The Tacoma Landmarks Preservation Commission acts as incentives and benefits.
the Local Review Board.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION PLAN 2-33
CHAPTER 2e PRESERVATION PROGRAM COMPONENTS
PIERCE COUNTY AND CITY OF
TACOMA CURRENT USE ASSESSMENT
This program allows Pierce County to assess land
Uat a lower value based on current use rather than
potential uses or market value. The program is
1 � y primarily used to promote preservation of unim-
proved natural, agricultural and open space land,
r �! but may be expanded to include properties with
- designated historic resources.
Features,
u
• Jointly administered by Pierce County and the
City of Tacoma.
Incentives and benefits support the CITY OF TACOMA TAX INCENTIVE FOR MULTIFAMILY HOUSING
preservation and rehabilitation of
historic resources. Tacoma offers a local tax exemption for creation of multifamily housing in
specially designated areas.Although this incentive is not specific to historic
preservation, it may be used to assist with the rehabilitation and re-use of
historic buildings as multifamily housing in a designated Mixed-Use Center.
Features:
• Offers an 8 to 12 year exemption from local property taxes.
• Available to historic and non-historic properties in desig-
nated Mixed-Use Center districts.
• Some housing units must be designated as affordable (for
12-year exemption).
• May be combined with the Special Tax Valuation.
CITY OF TACOMA ZONING INCENTIVES
Properties located in Downtown Tacoma or within a designated
Mixed-Use Center may be eligible for zoning incentives that promote
preservation of historic resources. These include height bonuses for
preservation of designated historic resources and waiver of parking
requirements for existing buildings. See Mixed-Use Center Districts
on page 2-25 for more information.
INCENTIVES AND BENEFITS ISSUES SUMMARY
• A perception exists that preservation efforts are too focused
on regulation rather than benefits or incentives.
• The City does not have a specific system to coordinate the
Federal Historic Rehabilitation Tax Credit Program.
• Existing incentives are insufficient to promote historic des-
ignation of some commercial properties.
-34 CITY OF TACOMA
CHAPTER 2e PRESERVATION PROGRAM COMPONENTS
EDUCATION
Helping property owners learn how to maintain their historic properties as active, viable assets is a
key part of a successful preservation program. Many property owners willingly comply with appropri-
ate rehabilitation procedures and develop compatible designs for new construction when they are
well informed about preservation objectives.
Pry rvaxr%r�
Workshops that provide helpful information about Prram
rehabilitation techniques and publications that
build an understanding g of historic significance
(f+laf5age�iafrt, ItY�e�rtt(u�s�ttc�".
&dtfiihfstfaftcftf"'; Idefiff,caYr6rt,;;;"
are examples of education and outreach strate-
gies. Well-written design guidelines that provide OEM
useful information can also serve an educational
role.
Education and outreach efforts also help ensure that the impor-
Tacoma"5
tance of historic preservation is well understood within the com- C. nion5tati ,,
munity. They may also help property owners better understand the ` " Uitrict
range of flexibility that is available to adaptive reuse of historic r
properties.
1
The City of Tacoma's culture web site at www.tacomaculture.org is
a key tool for providing educational information. A number of other
groups and organizations, such as Historic Tacoma, also provide
education and outreach programs that help broaden awareness of
history and preservation in the city.
r
Brochures and pamphlets help
raise awareness of Tacoma's his-
toric resources.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION PLAN 2-35
CHAPTER 2e PRESERVATION PROGRAM COMPONENTS
CITY OF TACOMA EDUCATION
a
� PROGRAMS
The City administers education programs includ-
aatul f ing historic markers, street naming, property
n°" ""'""°" research database and the City's web site.
Im anY]a.Nmel 1°mrd Ila�Ynwn6 fared F ..ha ww�,gN'n"�a
�'� to oa 16q 1 xVznp
ry hu it �,pk x"fir roan
Tacoma Culture Web Site
r� I
11h, _kw
8
.
The Tacoma Culture web site at www.tacomaculture.org
,ifie......ar..,+n
provides information on the arts, historic preser-
vation and international programs in Tacoma. The
"M # ��:�
, ���'� historic preservation portion of the site is well orga-
" - IL nized and includes a significant amount of useful
information on preservation programs, processes
and regulations. It outlines many components
of the City's preservation program including the
Landmarks Preservation Commission, Individual
The City of Tacoma sponsored a self- Landmark and District nomination and designation, financial incen-
guided walking tour of community tives, design review and standards for historic properties. The web
churches and other places of worship site also provides links to outside preservation resources.
in the historic Hilltop area.
This serves, in effect, as the web site for the City's program while
SUSTAINABILITY also presenting material related to other preservation partners.
OUTREACH This affords an integrated view of preservation in the community.
However, the web site is somewhat difficult to find for a first time
�Ei� lly � ft �(
user'
whose initial instinct is to search on the City's web site.
tgy � � It � While the web site offers extensive resources for understanding the
City's reservation program, it Tacks sufficient information regard
Y p p g g
ing the historic background of Tacoma, specifically as "historic con-
texts," and does not provide information that would help a property
owner determine the potential significance of a building that has
not been surveyed. It also lacks sufficient information for property
owners seeking information about preservation techniques or reha-
bilitation strategies.
r
ynu
i rrr � IGlrf r
/, s �iv I r ,_ , /,aor„ g ir, ° �// ,r,- ,</,,,✓�/, o/�Nro %/e/l vim n(fi,�if iI hVVFr�r f a'
The Alaska-Yukon-Pacific Exposition held in Seattle
in 1909. (Source: University of Washington, Digital
Collection)
-36 CITY OF TACOMA
CHAPTER 2e PRESERVATION PROGRAM COMPONENTS
Historic Properties Inventory Database
The City has developed an online database that �o I
enables users to find historic properties and
review bibliographic resources. The BETA ver-
sion of the database includes data from cultural
resources surveys from 1977-2005, as well as %
maps, aerial photos, historical descriptions, and
r
rc u r
street-level images. Most properties in this data-
„ r
base are not listed landmarks, and information is
not available for all listed properties. The Historic
Properties Inventory Database will be merged into
a more comprehensive historic survey database
under development as of 2011.
Historic Markers Program ��� r'llllll
.
The City of Tacoma seeks to formalize a program li illll I III
of interpretive markers to be installed on City-
owned buildings and in city right-of-way areas. Its
purpose is to increase public awareness of the City's cultural heri- The City of Tacoma produced a bro-
tage and to enhance the enjoyment of its historic sites by citizens chure to help owners research the his-
and visitors. Traditional interpretive markers and plaques continue tory of their properties.
to be a key part of Tacoma's education and outreach efforts. Bronze » , �,�
plaques and photo-metal markers are popular types that may be
used.
i ,Atli'
New techniques for conveying interpretive information continue to
develop. Systems that enable users to access audio/visual material I,
at an interpretive site are examples. In addition, historical informa-
tion can be linked to web-based data searches and mapping ser-
vices. In many cases, the new technologies will be identified on site
by some form of "hard copy" marker to indicate the availability of the
electronic information.
Illlli ���hI�I�NII�� I i:Ili�I��li �� iPr��i IihV Irt
i
Street Naming
Many communities re-name streets to recognize persons of histori- Tacoma's Old City Hall is marked by
cal or cultural significance. This serves to honor these people and a cast metal plaque.
also builds awareness of their contributions. In this sense, street
naming serves an educational role in the City's preservation pro-
gram.
Tacoma's current street naming policy includes criteria that encour-
age consideration of context and geographical location, natural fea-
tures, historic significance or contributions made by individuals and
organizations.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION PLAN 2-37
CHAPTER 2e PRESERVATION PROGRAM COMPONENTS
OTHER EDUCATION PROGRAMS
Though the City itself has a limited role in edu-
. � cation and outreach, many of its preservation
T"IENG U partners play key roles. The educational roles of
DISTRICT several of the City's most important preservation
partners are summarized below.
Historylink.org
The History Link web site provides an extensive
online searchable database of articles relating to
Puget Sound history.
Historic Tacoma, Inc.
Historic Tacoma, Inc. is a non-profit organization
dedicated to preserving Tacoma's architectural
legacy through education and advocacy. Historic
Tacoma advocates for the thoughtful preserva-
tion and rehabilitation of historic structures, sites
and neighborhoods, while urging policy makers,
developers and citizens to consider the value of
` the city's unique built environment.
Historic Tacoma, the North End National Alliance of Preservation Commissions
Neighborhood Council, the Tacoma The Alliance represents the nation's preservation design review
Historical Society and Pacific commissions, provides technical support and manages an informa-
Lutheran University funded a walk-
ing tour of the Wedge District tion network to help local commissions accomplish their preserva-
tion objectives. It also serves advocates for national, state and local
policies and programs that support preservation commission efforts.
r
°d)�w�ui�rm,C✓�
jqf
r rr,
f�l�o� Hof f� Jog� �� �"
The National Alliance of Preservation Commissions
staged one of its popular CAMP training sessions
in Tacoma in 2008. This educational activity brings
together Landmarks Preservation Commission mem-
bers and others interested in effective preservation
programs to refine their skills.
2-38 CITY OF TACOMA
CHAPTER 2e PRESERVATION PROGRAM COMPONENTS
Puget Sound Regional Archives ,,� 1
The archives provide a repository for government records from l i am
Washington State, including tax rolls, property assessment, and e"rr� nn"e-c�t
maps.
*nt r for HeWthy t.0
Tacoma Historical Society Taco,Taco,ma fl&gItonIa!
This non-profit organization is dedicated to the research and preser-
vation of Tacoma's history.
Tacoma and Pierce County Business Organizations
Organizations such as the Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber of Commerce r r , I it P tv
and the Downtown Tacoma Business Improvement Area help sponsor
education programs including walking tours that feature historic resources The City's preservation partners
help educate the community about
and signage programs that may promote historic character.
historic resources.
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The Tacoma Downtown Business Improvement Area partnered with the
Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber of Commerce, City of Tacoma and Pierce
Transit to sponsor a series of walking tours around historic downtown Tacoma.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION PLAN 2-39
CHAPTER 2e PRESERVATION PROGRAM COMPONENTS
Tacoma Public Library
The Tacoma Public Library provides information
and archives relating to Tacoma history, includ-
ing census data, city directories, maps and media
t � collections. The Library also maintains the Pierce
County Buildings Index, a searchable online data
base.
University of Washington
The University's manuscripts and special collec-
tions includes photographs, maps, rare books,
and documents relating to Washington State his-
tory.
Washington Trust for Historic
/ Preservation
1 „ The Trust provides advocacy and assistance orga-
nization for historic preservation in Washington
State. It also maintains a list of the state,s most
endangered properties.
g
Former Tacoma Mayor Bill Baarsma EDUCATION ISSUES SUMMARY
spoke at the announcement of
the Washington Trust for Historic There is insufficient outreach and education efforts to pro-
Preservation's 2008 Most Endangered mote preservation goals or correct misinformation.
Properties w
List, which included the
MurrayMorgistan ge. Current preservation education and outreach programs are
not sufficient to raise awareness and provide support for
the city's preservation goals and objectives.
• Existing educational resources are not sufficient to raise
awareness and promote collaboration between City depart-
ments, boards and commissions.
• Many contractors and property owners lack understanding
of appropriate rehabilitation procedures.
• Existing educational resources do not provide a strong
basis of awareness through publications and outreach and
training programs to promote preservation benefits and
best practices.
• Some commercial property owners do not see value in
historic buildings on site.
• Many property owners do not understand the role of his-
toric buildings in sustainability.
2-40 CITY OF TACOMA
CHAPTER 2e PRESERVATION PROGRAM COMPONENTS
ADVOCACY
Advocacy programs promote policies and plans that support historic preservation. This includes lobby-
ing for zoning codes that are compatible with traditional development patterns in older neighborhoods
and supporting adoption of new incentives to maintain historic structures. They also work to expand
the base of preservation players and engage partners in collaborative preservation programs. Private
citizens and non-profit organizations lead preservation advocacy in Tacoma.
Historic preservation in Tacoma is supported by
a number of groups and organizations. In some Prrvrr�
cases, historic preservation is an organization's
primary mandate. Other organizations focus on
r (�IafSage�fiafrt ItSce�rtt(u�s�ttd":
activities that are not directly related to preserva-
tion, but that do have a secondary relationship.
Sometimes these are new partners. ;;;;;;; AM
PRESERVATION PARTNERS
Building a stronger, and more extensive, network of organizations
who include information in their own programs to building aware-
ness of historic properties is an essential priority. Because historic �,„,4
properties and older neighborhoods can support other community
programs, many affiliates make strong partners.
A recent example of a very effective partnership is the development %
of a series of walking tours in the downtown area as illustrated on uNmw„
page 2-39. The tours were produced by a coalition of groups, includ-
ing Downtown On the Go!, MultiCare and the Tacoma Regional �
Convention and Visitor Bureau, and the Office of Sustainability. This
partnership reflects the recognition that touring historic sites con-
tributes to health and that it is an asset for heritage tourism as an
economic development tool. Preservation's role in sustainability is y�� � %,i "
also implied. More of these types of partnerships are needed.
r Preservation partners such as
MultiCare recognize the importance
ii
�6rtl�� of historic preservation in promoting
healthy,pedestrian-oriented places.
Community workshop participants helped identify
potential preservation partners.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION PLAN 2-41
CxAprso 2: PosssovAnow PROGRAM Cowpowswrs
. ` Key Local Preservation Partners
/\ variety Oy |OC8| gnOUDS and Org8D|Z8t|ODS have direct stakes in
D[eSe[V8t|OD and neighborhood CODSe[V8UOD in Tacoma. Some key
gnDUDS and organizations are listed below along with their general
W roles related to preservation.
^ Arts Commission ' Education and outreach
^ BUS|DeSS O|St[|CtS ' Stewardship
^ City Preservation Office ' Overall program coordination
^ Developers and Businesses ' Impetus and clientele
^ Foss Waterway PO/\ ' Stewardship
^ GO Local Tacoma ' Outreach and edUC8t|OD
^ H|StO[|C District Associations ' EdUC@t|OD and SteVV8[dSh|D
^ Historic Tacoma 'Advocacy and edUC8t|OD
^ Landmarks Preservation DOmm|SS|On ' Program implemen-
tation and maintenance, education
^ Metro Parks Tacoma ' Stewardship
^ Neighborhood Councils— Outreach
^Historic preservation /n Tacoma PUy8||UpTribe Oy Indians — EdUC8t|On. stewardship
^/s supported by local preservation P|erCeCounty Landmarks Preservation Commission
partners including developers and ^ Planning DOnnnn|SS|On ' Pn}gn3nn |nnp|ennent8t|On
businesses. ^ School System — Education and stewardship
^ Tacoma Historical Society 'Advocacy and edUC8UOn
^ ToCOm8 PUb||C L|bn3ry, P8C|y|C Northwest Room and Pierce
County Building Index web portal — EdUC8t|On. OUtr88Ch
^ Tax assessor ' Special valuation
^ University OyWashington ' H|StOr|C neh8b|||t8UOn. edUC8UOn
2-42 C/ry orTAcowA
CHAPTER 2e PRESERVATION PROGRAM COMPONENTS
Key State, Regional and National Preservation Partners
Beyond the local level, a variety of state, regional and national orga-
nizations provide support for historic preservation in Tacoma. Some j
have on-going relationships with one another, while others may be "
engaged only for a specific project. Key organizations are:
• Advisory Council on Historic Preservation
• 4culture
• Heritage League of Pierce County
• Historic Seattle
• Historylink.org ' �'
• King County HPO
• Municipal Services Research Corporation (MRSC.org) ,
• National Alliance of Preservation Commissions
• National Park Service
• National Register of Historic Places National Trust for
Historic Preservation "
• National Trust for Historic Preservation /Green Lab — A key preservation partner, the
Education, Outreach Washington State History Museum
• National Trust Main Street Program is located adjacent to the Museum
• Preservation Action! of Glass and historic Union Station.
• Puget Sound Regional Archives
• University of Washington Manuscripts and Special
Collections
• Washington State Department of Archaeology and Historic
Preservation
• Washington State Historical Society
• Washington State History Museum
• Washington Trust for Historic Preservation
HISTORIC PRESERVATION PLAN -43
CHAPTER 2e PRESERVATION PROGRAM COMPONENTS
Potential Preservation Partners
Many, primarily local, groups and organizations may not be directly
involved in preservation efforts but have goals that relate to his-
toric preservation efforts. For example, the Tacoma/Pierce County
Health Department espouses a goal to promote walkable places for
personal health and to reduce pollution. This clearly overlaps with a
preservation goal to preserve historic pedestrian-oriented neighbor-
hoods. The goals of business, economic development and environ-
mental organizations also coincide with goals for historic preserva-
tion. Potential partners for historic preservation efforts include:
• Affordable housing organizations
r Business organizations
Cascade Land Conservancy - Education, stewardship,
potential TDR partner
• Chamber of Commerce
• Churches / religious organizations
• Civic organizations
• Department of Health
• Developers interested in preservation
I Economic development organizations
Sul' �pn, Environmental protection and sustainability organizations
• Fire inspectors
Interested residents
Churches and religious organiza- Libraries / librarians
tions are potential preservation Local media
partners. Main Street business program
• Tacoma's Sustainability Commission
• Master Builders Association
• Museums — Education, outreach
• Port of Tacoma
• Tax assessors
2-44 CITY OF TACOMA
CHAPTER 2e PRESERVATION PROGRAM COMPONENTS
ADVOCACY ISSUES SUMMARY
• The roles of various groups and organizations engaged in II
preservation activity are not sufficiently clarified.
raa
• Existing policies do not identify or provide a framework to
involve groups and organizations that could assist with
historic preservation efforts.
No formal mechanism exists for advocacy groups to com-
municate roles and collaborate on programs.
. r
Existing preservation policies do
not sufficiently clarify the roles of
various groups and organizations
engaged in preservation activity or
provide a framework for collabora-
tion.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION PLAN -45
CHAPTER 2: PRESERVATION PROGRAM COMPONENTS
11
Garretson, Woodruff and Pratt Co. Warehouse (Source: University of
Washington, Digital Collection)
2-46 CITY OF TACOMA
HISTORIC PRESERVATION PLAN
CHAPTER 3
►rAt
i
Boom ......
Realizing the community's vision for historic preservation in Tacoma requires the
coordinated participation of many individuals and organizations.
This chapter describes a series of goals,
policies and actions that will help to
achieve the vision for historic preservation
in Tacoma. They are organized around 111's
the six preservation program compo-
nents described in Chapter 2 and are pre- �/� �� ,
sented in a hierarchical structure. At the
highest level, goals statements indicate
s
desired future conditions. For each goal,
a series of policies indicate the general �J �
course of action and provide guidelines
for decision making. Finally, actions are �
presented under each policy statement,
which describe specific steps to take to �
r
meet the policy. � � ��
PRIORITY OF THE GOALS, POLICIES AND ACTIONS
The sequence of goals, policies and actions presented in this chap- Overall Goals, Policies and
ter does not convey their relative importance or priority. However, Actions.........................................3-3
the highest priority actions for each program component are high-
lighted in a sidebar at the beginning of each section. Priorities and Administration Component
timing for all actions appear later in Chapter 4. It is important to Goals, Policies and Actions ..........3-1 9
recognize that many actions are long range in nature and that some Identification Component
must be completed in a chronological sequence. Goals, Policies and Actions ..........3-21
Management Tools Component
Goals, Policies and Actions ..........3-27
Incentives and Benefits Component
Goals, Policies and Actions ..........3-47
Education Component
Goals, Policies and Actions ..........3-51
Advocacy Component
Goals, Policies and Actions ..........3-55
-1
CHAPTER 3e GOALS, POLICIES AND ACTIONS
OEM
bJ�iY9WWY��VI�i)w�9�fi�iYlY11�i�YlYll�llwlVia ui �,1r "°"���%rri�irlrr10" I ` 1
�iy�l �IWVU'I)19I'�! �q
i
1 r,c
1
The history of the Tacoma area and its residents serves as the foundation
of the City's identity.
®2 CITY OF TACOMA
CHAPTER 3e GOALS, POLICIES AND ACTIONS
OVERALL GOALS, POLICIES AND ACTIONS
Historic preservation should be an integral part of planning for Tacoma's future. The overall goals, poli-
cies and actions described below foster a citywide commitment to historic preservation.
GOAL: A LIVABLE COMMUNITY
y,
WITH A STRONG SENSE OF HISTORY
The history of the Tacoma area and its residents
serves as the foundation of the City's identity intoi IN
the 21 st century. Innovative Historic Preservation
and Cultural Resource Management policies and procedures should Special care is needed to ensure that
build upon this identity by protecting cultural resources, contributing on-site archaeological resources are
to the long range planning process, providing economic develop- preserved when sites are redeveloped
ment opportunities, promoting heritage tourism, encouraging citizen KEY OVERALLAcTiONS
involvement in the city's history, and, overall, fostering civic pride.
r
Policy -1 P� sr " hIxtt�,,,r
Preserve archaeological resources as part of Tacoma's arh ( icl rcur
rich history.
PtMde tCfC31lCncUt
Tacoma has numerous archaeological resources of cultural, ethno-
ccfdrtfn + �i, des ,,,
historical and scientific importance.This record is conveyed in traces
of the earliest native settlements. Material from early European set- 'af i[1t/rr
tlement and the development of the port and railroad system are Ac �st� HP
also important parts of the community's archaeological heritage.
�rrrrhrr('nt1 bnf�# c�fr
Action H P-1 A
Preserve and protect identified archaeological resources. !%art a ±++ srlr
Archaeological artifacts, features, and sites should be documented Kopf�hn
and preserved whenever feasible. Where new development does Ald
not allow for preservation of archaeological resources, they should U � � � ��
be carefully documented according to federal, state and local stan-
dards and regulations.
g
biYld��g
Action HP-1 B ci�st� P SA
Identifyand then maintain up-to-date information on
p Tc� ieHYffrciehr s£ �
potentially sensitive archaeological areas. drdcftl h� rSFrruo .
Information on potentially sensitive archaeological areas should be ` 66" 8 aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa
maintained to support preservation efforts. Access to such informa-
tion should, however, be controlled to reduce the risk of vandal- �e ccfirfitf m �irr�
netg�ibs�h�so ohth
ism. Efforts to predict the most likely locations for archaeological r
resources should also continue as summarized in Predictive Model Aci�s HP 2 °°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°
on page 3-4. (trrp� nf; prgrhn fir puhlr ���
a �sfi�
HISTORIC PRESERVATION PLAN 3®3
CHAPTER 3e GOALS, POLICIES AND ACTIONS
GOAL:GOAL:A LiVABLECOMMUNITY Action HP-1 C
WITH A STRONG SENSE of Develop systematic citywide procedures for identifying
HISTORY(CONTINUED) and addressing potential impacts to archaeological
resources.
PREDICTIVE MODEL The City should work closely with the Puyallup Tribe on pro-
,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,, , cedures for addressing potential impacts to archaeological
��� � ao£ fs„ a rr U ndrtr
resources associated with Native American settlement. The Tribe
frdit "'thy hif 1rf'Ir ftt�sh Is a primary source for information on the significance, meaning
and purpose of Native resources and should be consulted when-
ever such resources are discovered or may be impacted.
d t rx�th�,",, rh tc c ffi en rd�e
rthr a� hforl rich Action HP-1 D
Develop special procedures for groundwork in areas
fehrheh hew clrut� sh c�
r �%�r/900' where there is a high likelihood of archaeological
resources being present.
In areas where there is a high likelihood of archaeological
resources being present, special care is needed to ensure that
such resources are properly preserved and documented so that
they are not unnecessarily damaged.
®4 CITY OF TACOMA
CHAPTER 3: GOALS, POLICIES AND ACTIONS
Action HP-1 E GOAL:A LIVABLE COMMUNITY
Establish a repository for archaeological artifacts retrieved WITH A STRONG SENSE OF
from local sites. HISTORY(CONTINUED)
Archaeological artifacts that are important to Tacoma's history
should be interpreted, curated and displayed as appropriate.
Action HP-1 F
Develop archaeological displays as part of a public arts
program.
Opportunities to partner with arts groups to develop art installations
should be explored where appropriate.
Action HP-1G
Provide educational programs on archaeological
resources.
Educational programs will help build an understanding of archaeo-
logical resources in the community. Partnerships with groups that
work with archaeological resources will support such programs.
Also see:
• Action HP-38A
Preservation partners should encourage the integration of
cultural heritage and historic preservation in formal curricula.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION PLAN 3®5
CHAPTER 3e GOALS, POLICIES AND ACTIONS
GOAL:A LiVABLECOMMUNITY Policy HP-2
ITH A STRONG SENSE of Integrate Tacoma's historic resources into community
HISTORY(CONTINUED) planning efforts.
Community planning efforts should look forward while valuing the
past. They should help preserve the city's history, as embodied by
its historic structures, as well as seek ways to use those resources
to maintain the vitality of the city. Capitalizing on historic resources
promotes the unique identity of the city's traditional neighborhoods
and will help support the community's high quality of life.
Action HP-2A
Encourage neighborhood-level preservation and
conservation programs.
Afocus on neighborhood-level planning will lead to enhanced strat-
egies for preservation and promotion of the architectural, historical,
cultural, and landscape features important to neighborhood identity
and spirit.
Also see:
• Action HP-7C
Use historic and conservation districts as ways to enhance
property values.
• Action HP-8A
Explore alternative tools for heritage conservation that main-
tain neighborhood character.
• Action HP-28A
Revise the City's existing conservation district tool.
• Action HP-33C
Extend the range of zoning incentives for historic resources
and conservation areas.
®6 CITY OF TACOMA
CHAPTER 3e GOALS, POLICIES AND ACTIONS
GOAL: A SUSTAINABLE °��;,!''"'!'!!"I'il'i'�ry'iiiiitillllllllllllll l�ll�lll II IIII�I���
�� � � lrrrrrrrrrrrr/rrirrrrrrrrrY �;,`� J; ��� ����� ��J
COMMUNITY SUPPORTED BY
PRESERVATION EFFORTS
Tacoma's preservation program should be at
the forefront of the sustainability movement.
%%Preserving and re-using historic buildings is the
I �
equivalent of large-scale recycling. It conserves
land, maintains the energy invested in original
construction and reduces demolition waste.
Policy HP-3 Historic buildings are often part of
traditional development patterns
Promote preservation's role in community sustainability that support sustainable lifestyles.
efforts.
Preservation is a vital component of sustainability and should be ENVIRONMENTAL
part of the community's overall sustainability efforts. BENEFITS OF
Action HP-3A HISTORIC PRESERVATION
Provide tools to encourage cooperation between P1, ,,,hrttcntrd'tur 1 %
advocates for historic preservation and sustainability. th onf�l-��n�f�
Tools that clarify the roles of, and encourage cooperation between, rt ...............
existing organizations will help promote preservation's role in com-
munity sustainability efforts. r K Q Wl#horgy
that �n#,into...#h� mCrf� fure,,, d;;
Also see: tr ns�csfls, tn,a Cohn=
s#rU�tloh �rrd cfhgorng h'l�ht�h�h�"
• Action HP-40F Tht �� fnbo � h � rjaC� ""e
Expand partnerships with sustainability organizations and
programs. therh�UC eeF'g " n' imp�sfaf .
Action HP-313 pt'�p� �IS/htfesc�tm��u�ldrn� �� ��
hi'y rey � d, r de(csfrresh of
Provide information about the environmental benefits of hrtcsri ; urlrn r ' se # %Ics %sf
preservation of existing buildings as part of the citywide �' c� ton ,,r, �f1
sustainability program.
The role of preservation in sustainability should appear in all City t;7/ In 1 ri, ,������YNE
HH
publications related to sustainability including print and electronic Hisforibuild(ngruoffteh design d
fCr�noNgy�fFr�ehoythro�gh� �f lo-
media. caff�rfol +t+tth fohg hf cyofend
Action HP-3C cdl'trig,Ya�atresgh#wn
Include a sustainability section on Tacoma's preservation
y� nt rans�artattc�n ;;
web site. H�tcsri buildthrreff+n arcfr '
The web site should provide sustainability information and '
resources applicable to historic structures as well as links to other hCrm sole de �C� faff r
grl(nagncrnkra1
departments engaged in this field.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION PLAN 3®7
CHAPTER 3e GOALS, POLICIES AND ACTIONS
GOAL:ASUSTAINABLE Action HP-3D
COMMUNITY SUPPORTED Encourage the Tacoma Public Library to provide resource
BY PRESERVATIONEFFORTS materials on sustainability and preservation.
(CONTINUED) Reference materials addressing rehabilitation, weatherization and
other historic home repair and energy efficiency measures will help
educate property owners and the general public about preservation
options that also promote goals for sustainability.
Action HP-3E
Use historic structures to highlight green building
practices.
Hold public workshops and tours in historic buildings to high-
light projects that successfully conserve historic resources and
energy. Demonstrate how retaining traditional buildings conserves
resources. This should include discussions about the use of local
and renewable resources, sighting structures to make best use of
passive solar and natural ventilation and the use of roof pitch and
landscaping.
Action HP-3F
Encourage the implementation of sustainability plans in
historic districts.
As citywide sustainability programs are initiated, historic districts
should serve as natural partners for their implementation.
3-8 CITY OF TACOMA
CHAPTER 3: GOALS, POLICIES AND ACTIONS
Policy HP-4 GOAL:ASUSTAINABLE
Include sustainability objectives in an update to the COMMUNITY SUPPORTED
City's historic design guidelines. BY PRESERVATIONEFFORTS
Inclusion of sustainability objectives within the City's historic design (CONTINUEV)
guidelines will help promote a strong integration of community
sustainability and preservation efforts.
Action HP-4A
Update preservation design guidelines with solutions for
the compatible application of sustainable technologies to
historic buildings.
Guidelines should address compatible energy conserving retro-
fits and appropriate ways to install solar panels, wind turbines and
other energy generating tools on historic properties.
Action HP-413
Update design guidelines to provide information on
sustainable landscaping strategies.
Provide information on landscape designs that conserve resources
and enhance the energy efficiency of a building.This should include
ideas for planting wind breaks and providing for solar access to
occupied spaces, and to produce gardens.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION PLAN 3®9
CHAPTER 3: GOALS, POLICIES AND ACTIONS
GOAL:ASUSTAINABLE Policy HP-5
COMMUNITY SUPPORTED Use the City's programs and processes to promote the
BY PRESERVATIONEFFORTS link between historic preservation and sustainability.
(CONTINUED) City programs, processes and regulations should encourage the link
DECONSTRUCTION between preservation and sustainability objectives.Seethe Environmental
Component of Suslainability on page IN-6 for more information.
Action HP-5A
Tailor energy efficiency standards to fit historic resources.
, fit thr hntef� ( �cn be
.................
..........h 6'
Building and zoning code standards for energy efficiency should
provide flexibility for historic resources, emphasizing overall energy
iii%% j efficiency rather than the efficiency of individual building elements.
Also see:
• Action HP-26A
Review the existing zoning code to determine where conflicts
may exist with preservation policies and goals.
Action HP-513
Streamline the permitting process for compatible energy
efficiency retrofits to historic resources.
The permitting process should encourage compatible energy effi-
ciency retrofits to historic buildings.
Strategies include:
• Streamlining the review process for simple energy-efficiency retrofits.
• Updating design guidelines to address the compatibility of
energy efficiency retrofits for typical building types in Tacoma.
Also see:
• Action HP-30A
Provide user-friendly preservation design guidelines that apply citywide.
Action HP-5C
Consider providing credit for preservation of embodied
energy and diversion of potential landfill waste.
Explore potential programs to calculate embodied energy and landfill
costs to support credits for projects that preserve existing buildings and
reduce landfill waste associated with demolition. Potential City-sponsored
sustainability initiatives (such as an incentive or requirement for LEED
certification)should provide such credit to preservation projects.
Action HP-51D
Establish a deconstruction salvage program for the reuse
of historic building materials.
When options to demolition have been exhausted,a deconstruction pro-
gram should guide the careful salvage of historic details and features.
3-10 CITY OF TACOMA
CHAPTER 3e GOALS, POLICIES AND ACTIONS
GOAL: AN ECONOMICALLY
VIBRANT COMMUNITY SUPPORTED
BY PRESERVATION
In Tacoma, preservation contributes significantly
to a vibrant local economy. It supports economic
development opportunities, retains local busi-
nesses and facilitates tourism development.
Historic buildings represent millions of dollars of
infrastructure investment made by previous gen-
erations. Funds spent renovating these structures
have a greater multiplier effect in the local economy
than new construction.A higher percentage of each
u moo, I
dollar spent goes to labor in preservation projects
which results in more jobs for the community and
more dollars recirculated in the local economy.
Policy - �a
Encourage active use of historic resources.
The preservation program should focus on keeping a building in A 1912 pamphlet illustrates the long-
active service and in accommodating compatible alterations. standing role of tourism in Tacoma's
Change that retains the significance of a property is to be accepted economy
and expected. Note that there are, of course, exceptions for special
landmarks and historic building museums.
Action HP-6A
Promote adaptive reuse of historic properties.
Regulations and incentives should encourage the re-use of historic struc-
tures so they remain part of economically vibrant neighborhoods and areas.
Strategies include:
• Promoting tax incentives, loans and grant programs to encour-
age the adaptive reuse of historic structures to meet commu-
nity and market needs.
• Revising zoning regulations and the building code when needed
to ensure that they support the re-use of historic structures.
Also see:
• Action HP-23A
Consider establishing a transfer of development rights (TDR)
program for historic properties.
• Action HP-26B
Explore context-sensitive zoning.
• Action HP-33C
Extend the range of zoning incentives for historic resources
and conservation areas.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION PLAN 3-11
CHAPTER 3e GOALS, POLICIES AND ACTIONS
GOAL:ANEcONOMICALLY Policy HP-7
VIBRANT COMMUNITY SUPPORTED Leverage the economic development opportunities
BY PRESERVATION (CONTINUED) provided by Tacoma's historic resources.
HERITAGE ToURISM Pursue programs that foster economic development through his-
toric preservation, including heritage tourism, cultural events and
�y�he�sGrang Icse � Ste' t , adaptive reuse. Extensive research at the state and national levels
documents the benefits of historic preservation to local economies.
eF "'end buy "' ate " Local historic districts, in particular, increase property values. This
information should help guide economic development in the city.
pc htbaefrv ,,,, hr � cs
Action HP-7A
IIp ft ff�hg pr
Market Tacoma for heritage tourism.
Promote Tacoma as a heritage tourism destination to support
economic development and historic preservation. See Heritage
h1f�snThUt feh HffHf Pt
Tourism at right for additional information.
r #f�snptvf ° hh�h �J��
IehrteTCUr� muri�vITe°�k�t` Heritage tourism efforts should:
��8r�1(IiN{N f�r��ry�trenn�fron fff(��
Engage Tacoma's preservation partners.
• Use electronic outreach strategies.
lent fcGrrm�elepcsr �� Ensure that City staff, volunteers and others engage in heri-
tage tourism efforts are educated about Tacoma's history.
• Ensure public access to designated historic landmarks.
r�/ Ih�Hli�rl�'HQr� �iicxff�yT1r
AA,f/6 e' fro' jr t '' a Action HP-713
Coordinate preservation efforts with support for local
�,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,a� �i�/�j//i�,,, businesses.
�sh ��itror� �nd�/��; ���u���u
fee rrr 'ry1t"r � Coordinate preservation efforts with programs that support local busi-
nesses and partner with business groups, such as Go Local Tacoma.
Thy�s�ad�L�rc��ll� rtg r
prt �thap,,,,, # ran ;; Action HP-7C
502 Use historic and conservation districts as ways to
grhrtdrint a" � #c�G';r' enhance property values.
tTit 'i' IfiN the "' c "' Establish new historic and conservation districts as economic
end """Bwar fr Pit development strategies. The historic preservation office should
seek partnerships with economic development groups to assist
t� with creating and managing such districts.
/ 'hen Iin
Also see:
...........
/h�l "'fh� ��arsgrh� f �noteafr Action HP-2A
NE tayfd Ufar �t Grrm -level preservation and conservation
Encourage neighborhood
t dcs pres�de fr� ��1h programs.
tiFd; iti the h� rhel Action HP-8A
s�nm"(i'fti ������ nd h � hberhoed Explore alternative tools for heritage conservation that main-
bunhf rat(et thorn tain neighborhood character.
p
eerliav Revise the City's existing conservation district tool.
3-12 CITY OF TACOMA
CHAPTER 3e GOALS, POLICIES AND ACTIONS
GOAL: TACOMA'S PRESERVATION `I
PROGRAM EMPLOYS NATIONALLY �
RECOGNIZED BEST PRACTICES. r
The City of Tacoma will be a national leader in
adaptive reuse and historic preservation programs
through the identification, enhancement, pres-
ervation and sharing of its rich cultural heritage.
It will serve as an example of a dynamic historic
Y
urban center in the 21 st century.
Policy HP-8
Incorporate new trends and issues in preservation The City of Tacoma will be a national
and neighborhood conservation in creative ways that leader in the adaptive reuse of older
establish Tacoma as a leader. structures.
Reflecting broader trends in society, preservation programs con-
tinue to evolve across the country. Some of these trends are intro-
ducing new issues that should be addressed by the City's preserva-
tion program.
Action HP-8A
Explore alternative tools for heritage conservation that
maintain neighborhood character.
Many neighborhoods seek historic district status because it is
the only available tool to address neighborhood character. New
tools should be developed and existing tools should be refined to
broaden the options. Such tools may include the use of form-based
codes, design overlay districts, and conservation districts. See The
Heritage Conservation System on page 3-36 for more information.
Also see:
• Action HP-2A
Encourage neighborhood-level preservation and conservation
programs.
• Action HP-26B
Explore context-sensitive zoning.
• Action HP-29A
Establish criteria to prioritize requests for historic landmark,
historic district and conservation district designation.
Action HP-813
Horizontally integrate historic preservation into other City
planning efforts.
Many departments and agencies employ historic preservation
strategies within their individual missions. Expanding this practice
will promote a heightened awareness of the preservation program.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION PLAN ®1
CHAPTER 3: GOALS, POLICIES AND ACTIONS
GOAL: TAcomA's PRESERVATION Policy HP-9
PROGRAm EMPLOYS NATIONALLY Promote ease of use, transparency of administration,
REcOGNizEDBEST PRACTICES. and predictability in the preservation program.
(CONTINUED) The preservation program should be readily accessible, with pro-
gram components that are easily understood by the public.
Action HP-9A
Focus on employing solution-oriented preservation tools.
Tools should be available to help owners find solutions for main-
taining historic resources in active and appropriate uses. These
may include user-friendly design guidelines, technical assistance
information and surveys with information for property owners.
Action HP-913
Provide clear guidance for the treatment of designated
historic resources.
Clear guidance for the treatment of designated historic resources
should provide owners, builders and developers with the ability to
make informed decisions about properties that are managed by the
City's preservation tools.
Also see:
• Action HP-25A
Clarify and clean up the existing preservation ordinance.
• Action HP-25B
Consider a tiered ranking system for historic significance.
• Action HP-30A
Provide user-friendly preservation design guidelines that apply
citywide.
3-14 CITY OF TACOMA
CHAPTER 3e GOALS, POLICIES AND ACTIONS
GOAL: PRESERVATION IS
INTEGRATED WITH COMMUNITYi ���������""���"'%O�
GOALS AND POLICIES .
Historic preservation should be integral to City
planning programs and balanced with other com-
munity development objectives. Preservation
goals should be included throughout the City's
comprehensive plan elements to ensure that his-
toric preservation efforts are not isolated from
other City initiatives.
Policy -
Integrate historic preservation policies Into citywide The 1925 First Baptist Church build-
planning efforts. ing at 902 Market Street was locally
designated as an individual Tacoma
Citywide planning efforts should promote historic preservation poli- historic landmark in 2009. It is now
cies. The integration of goals and sharing of information between home to Urban Grace Church.
preservation and citywide planning efforts will be beneficial to both
programs.
Action HP-10A
Coordinate short-range and long-range planning with
preservation policies.
Historic survey data and identified resources should be addressed
in ongoing neighborhood and subarea planning efforts.
Action HP-10B
Coordinate capital facilities management with historic
preservation policy.
Include best practices for maintenance of historic resources in
Capital Facilities Management programs.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION PLAN ®1
CHAPTER 3: GOALS, POLICIES AND ACTIONS
GOAL: PRESERVATION IS Policy HP-11
INTEGRATED WITH COMMUNITY Capitalize on and promote historic resources in
GOALS AND POLICIES. (CONTINUEV) community planning efforts.
Where historic resources are present, they should help guide rede-
velopment of established areas, including the City's designated
Mixed-Use Centers.
Action HP-11A
Promote urban development strategies that are
compatible with historic preservation.
Identify development and planning strategies that are compatible
with and capitalize on historic resources.
Also see:
• Action HP-40E
Work with affordable housing organizations to use historic
resources in their work.
Action HP-1 1 B
Use historic development patterns to guide planning.
Recognize historic patterns of land use, infrastructure development
and circulation patterns and apply those patterns where appropri-
ate for future planning and development.
Action HP-11C
Use historic assets to guide development in Mixed-Use
Centers.
Historic assets should help guide development and redevelopment
in the City's designated Mixed-Use Centers. Preservation incentives
that are currently included in zoning standards for Mixed-Use Centers
should be promoted to encourage re-use of historic buildings. See
Mixed-Use Center on page 2-25 for more information.
Also see:
• Action HP-33B
Promote the use of Mixed-Use Center and Downtown zoning
incentives for preservation projects.
3-16 CITY OF TACOMA
CHAPTER 3e GOALS, POLICIES AND ACTIONS
GOAL: HISTORIC RESOURCES �� jj J�
ARE INTEGRAL FEATURES OF THE
PUBLIC REALM .
The City should be a leader in preservation by
demonstrating best practices in the management
of its own historic facilities, including buildings,
parks and sites.
Policy -1 �(
Promote best practices in the City
�ffjffj;
p Y
of Tacoma's stewardship of historic
resources.
The City should promote public action and poten-
tial acquisition of threatened historic resources
as well as maintenance and provision of public
access to City-owned resources.
Action HP-12A
Implement a program for public action when a highly The City should be a leader in pres-
valued historic property is threatened. ervation by demonstrating best
Establish a tool for the interim public ownership of threatened practices in the management of
its own historic facilities. The 1931
properties. The tool should enable the City to purchase highly sig- Tacoma Municipal Building (for-
nificant resources as a means of ensuring their preservation. The merly the Medical Arts Building)
properties could then be transferred or sold to private groups or was locally designated as an indi-
individuals. The tool should also address public ownership of areas vidual Tacoma historic landmark in
of natural scenic beauty or historic or ecological interest in need of 1978.
protection for historic, educational, recreational, and other public
purposes.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION PLAN 3-17
CHAPTER 3e GOALS, POLICIES AND ACTIONS
GOAL: isTORic REsouRcEs Action HP-12B
ARE I TEGRAL E TURES of THE Actively manage and rehabilitate City-owned historic
usr-ic REALM. (CONTINUE) properties according to best practices.
The City should set an example of good stewardship through the
management and proper maintenance of its historic resources,
including stabilization of properties when necessary. The City
should also support historic designation of eligible publicly-owned
resources.
Action HP-12C
Promote public access to significant historic resources.
City-owned historic resources should be publicly accessible. Many
are already accessible because they house City services, but oth-
ers that may not normally be open to the public on a regular basis
should be open periodically for special tours or events. Private
owners and other public agency managers of significant historic
resources that have a relationship to the public realm, such as
schools and churches, should also be encouraged to allow some
public access.
3-18 CITY OF TACOMA
CHAPTER 3e GOALS, POLICIES AND ACTIONS
ADMINISTRATION COMPONENT
GOALS, POLICIES AND ACTIONS
A successful preservation program requires ongoing administrative support and commitment by the
City. The overall administration of this plan will be through the planning department, but interdepart-
mental cooperation is essential to achieve its goals and objectives.
GOAL : THE CITY MAINTAINS
A FUNCTIONAL INTEGRATED l;
PRESERVATION PROGRAM . �� l
Best practices for administering a preservation D I I�III1 '
program include providing sufficient staff, main- t �
taining a well-managed Landmarks Preservation
Commission and providing convenient access to
information needed by property owners and other
users. Review processes should be efficient as
well, making best use of time for all participants. y�
Policy -
Monitor the performance of the preservation program on The City's ongoing commitment to
an on-going basis to assure that it maintains a high level of historic preservation includes public
performance. outreach such as the 2009 Historic
Preservation Plan workshop.
Action HP-13A KEY
Implement an annual program review. ADMINISTRATION
The City should conduct an annual review of the preservation pro ACTIONS
-
gram, including presentation of a status report to City Council. A
simple reporting form that helps to measure activity in the preserva-
tion program may be used to support the annual review.Policy HP-14
( pttp� gt ;
Ensure that administrative resources are adequate for
efficient operation of the program. rT1htlr
Action HP-14A
Maintain a funding strategy that assures sufficient resources
for program activities.
Key funding sources include the City's general operating budget
and special grants for designated preservation projects. The City
should also work to establish an endowment that can support spe-
cial preservation programs.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION PLAN ®1
CHAPTER 3e GOALS, POLICIES AND ACTIONS
GOAL: THE CITY MAINTAINS Policy -1
uNcTIONAL, INTEGRATED Maintain a certified historic preservation program.
PRESERVATION PROGRAM. The Certified Local Government (CLG) program, which is a part of
(CONTINUED) the Department of the Interior's support for preservation to each
state, is an important funding source for some special projects. In
order to be eligible, the City must maintain specific standards of
operation to retain certification as a Certified Local Government.
Action HP-15A
Strengthen compliance regulations in the preservation
code itself and in other related sections of city codes.
An effective compliance system is an essential part of maintaining
certification.
Also see:
• Action HP-27C
Enhance enforcement of preservation codes.
Policy -
Promote collaboration among City departments, boards
and commissions.
Action HP-16A
Conduct an annual interdepartmental work session
related to historic resources.
Include all City departments and agencies involved in development
review and planning in a collaborative session to familiarize mem-
bers with the preservation program and to identify how it can help
achieve their other objectives.
Action HP-16B
Include preservation objectives in Capital Facilities
Planning.
The Capital Facilities Planning (CIP) process is an opportunity to
plan for protection and rehabilitation of historic features in the pub-
lic right of way, such as historic street paving materials.
Also see:
• Policy HP-30
Provide design guidelines that promote compatible develop-
ment.
Action HP-16C
Include preservation objectives in planning for city recreation
facilities.
Preserve historic sites and structures related to public recreation facilities.
—20 CITY OF TACOMA
CHAPTER 3e GOALS, POLICIES AND ACTIONS
IDENTIFICATION COMPONENT
GOALS, POLICIES AND ACTIONS
Historic resources should be presented in a manner that helps people understand their significance and
interpret their association with the community. Surveys should cover all key areas of the city and the
information should be up to date. Historic contexts should help serve as a basis for planning, in terms of
predicting where historic resources are likely to be found, and in setting priorities for historic surveys.
GOAL: A DETAILED
UNDERSTANDING OF TACOMA'S "`0°a04.,
HISTORY PROVIDES ABASE FOR Lecture ries
PRESERVATION EFFORTS . %" Ouse
Collect and make publicly available extensive R M,wz, „
documentation of Tacoma's Historic Resources. t
"�f j��F I J miP#I tl e f5 d IU 1 W{M R+rCnNn
9r, �Ulf v
Policy HP-17
W P tIWdLIN 4 8 d&ANf
Provide a set of historic contexts which
establish a background for understanding
Tacoma's historic resources.
Ox
rr
�
Action HP-17A r x�
Establish a work plan for developing
historic contexts.
Give priority for writing contexts to: °
• Topics for which preliminary information is Historic Tacoma sponsored a lec-
available from other work, ture series that helped people
• Themes with resources in areas where investment is highly understand the historic significance
likely, of their properties.
• Areas where other planning work is scheduled. KEY
Action HP-17B IDENTIFICATION
Prepare historic context statements that include all key ACTIONS
themes to Tacoma's history.
Contexts should describe the relationship of built resources to Aet�csfi HP
the social and cultural history of the community' identifying typical hitr� �it
property types that are likely to be involved, and suggesting areas t EO
where these resources are most likely to occur. See Developing �s ��H� 1SR,,,,,
Historic Context Statements on the next page for more information.
ki ,,,,,
ab G`01,T,�;e,
HISTORIC PRESERVATION PLAN 3-21
CHAPTER 3: GOALS, POLICIES AND ACTIONS
DEVELOPING HISTORIC CONTEXT STATEMENTS
!n
a-[gallopq
...............
J Mgq
6"1..................................6""/"/"/"/"/...............
.........................................111"OPT"'N""IX"',
..............................
df"'............
th 10,
rig
.................. ............. ................... .........................................................................
Native American Settlement High
Early European Settlement
Immigration 0 High
Neighborhood Development ■ High To include Hilltop, North Slope,South Ta-
coma, Wedge,West Slope and Whitman.
. ........... .......................... ......................................
Clubs and Organizations ■ Moderate
Religious Institutions ■ na Church survey completed in 2010.
Culture ■ Moderate
Education ■ na Schools survey completed in 2010.
Visual and Performing Arts...... ■ Moderate
Parties, Protests and Movements w
Government Institutions rate
Military Institutions rate
/rrr as 10
........................................................................................
Extraction and Production 0 Low
Distribution and Consumption 0 Low
Workers and Work Culture 0 Low
Labor Organizations and Protests 0 Low
Communication 0 Low
Bridges ■ High
Railroads ■ High
Maritime Activities 0 High
Streetcars 0 High
Automotive ■ High
m/m/m/m/w/v
P,............
..........".............. ............. a............ n ,ift
............. ..................................................................I
. ............... ...-
"f
Of
-------------------------TXXXXXXXXXXXXX
3-22 CITY OF TACOMA
CHAPTER 3e GOALS, POLICIES AND ACTIONS
Policy -
Maintain a comprehensive survey of Tacoma's cultural AREAS
resources.
Encourage and support the identification of cultural resources �...............
gothd """ t
throughout Tacoma. Surveying is an ongoing effort with the objec-
tive of including all properties in the city. trrithpnddy; fi
r�r�tude
Action HP-18A csufh i (( /hifmi �Lino (n"""'
Identify areas with potential resources for future surveys. bitr�
Areas with potentially eligible, undesi nated historic resources
p Y g� g
should be identified to indicate where surveys may be especially
important. This preliminary analysis will help in establishing priori-
ties for survey work. e {End { 1prh
Action HP-18B hotted
Prioritize survey implementation.
Hilltop�f�Lk��u��f��sd��frtot�
Identify areas where development pressures and other factors may
hl
create a threat to historic resources. Prioritize the execution of sur- 6tfh n {CId downd t
,�:
CfIL(m
veys in these areas based on threat levels and potential levels of 'XXXXMetro'Prf"' Pigs , h '
significance of the resources. See Potential Survey Areas at right
for more information.
Action HP-18C
Design the survey system to support the potential for a
tiered ranking of historic significance.
The survey system should consider a tiered ranking of historic
significance to support potential management tools that may use
different levels of design review or categories of resource designa-
tion. See Considerations fora Tiered System on page 3-24 for more
information.
Also see:
• Action HP-25B
Consider a tiered ranking system for historic significance.
Action HP-18D
Enable volunteers and property owners to assist in
surveys.
Tools for survey activities include:
• User guide to conducting surveys
• Instructions on accessing historic information
• Methods of evaluating historic significance and integrity
HISTORIC PRESERVATION PLAN 3-23
CHAPTER 3e GOALS, POLICIES AND ACTIONS
CONSIDERATIONS FOR A TIERED SYSTEM
rrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr�,,,,,,,
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rrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr l�/�//',
;;;,
N �W ;
/
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r ai ioi�a
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orrrrr l """e, _p t o t rn
rr„rrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr
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rr, ,rr
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� ;rrrrrrrrrra�rrrrrrrrrrr�
,,,,,�,,,, ,, �// ,,, rrrrrr„rrrrrr;rrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr/////// / /�i� /� rrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr
Vi, V
e
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Highest level of significance, in- Require preservation to maxi- High priority for assistance and in-
cluding properties individually eli- mum extent feasible. Retaining all centives. Landmark proceedings
gible for National Register listing key features is preferred.' may be contemplated if necessary.
T`
,,,,rrrr
ff /ii//////%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%% %/O/%/O11111111/11111O/%/O/%/O/O/O/O/O/O/O/O/O/M
,,,�/�„fir/////�� ///////%%%%%%%%%%%%%%/%%%///%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%% M
High level of significance, eligible Require preservation to maxi- High priority for assistance and
as a contributor for National Reg- mum extent feasible. Retaining incentives. Landmark proceed-
ister listing in a district all key features visible from the ings may be contemplated if nec-
public way is preferred. essary.
Encourage preservation when fea- Provide incentives, but may con-
Moderate level of significance sible. More flexibility in compatible sider mitigation alternatives when
alterations may be considered. other compelling City objectives
exist.
Non-contributor, but retrievable Demolition permitted, but may
as a historic resource, at the own- Encourage restoration. be discouraged. Provide some
er's option incentives and technical assis-
tance.
T�P,,,�,,,,�s�,,,rrrr//���%%�DOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO/OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO������������������������������������/
Non-contributor, with no potential
significance (New building or one No preservation expected. Demolition or alteration permitted.
substantially altered)
,, rrrr rrr
�!b#e that;;�ccirt6 a �C ,
-24 CITY OF TACOMA
CHAPTER 3e GOALS, POLICIES AND ACTIONS
GOAL: HISTORIC SURVEY
INFORMATION SUPPORTS ALL
PROGRAM COMPONENTS .
Surveys act as the first step in the management
of historic resources. The survey should serve to
identify resources and also be a planning tool that
is coordinated with other local land use regula-
tions and incentive systems.
��iii ii/ '�f I o II�V III IIII I I IIII III lum i u I i uum uuuu u i uuiuiuuuuiumiu uuuumiuuuuuuuuum um
Policy HP-19
Use cultural resource survey information %
I � {
i 111i i I II Ivil � � V h f)Is
in the City's resource designation and a �N��7�I llilli�ll� ��i��i it ll' II
management tools. ,
Information gathered in surveys should tie directly
(/
into the levels of designation and types manage-
i%
ment of regulations and incentives that are used.
l
Action HP-19A
Expand survey data categories to assist in decision Historic surveys should clearly indi-
making about properties. cate key character-defining features
A historic resource survey should provide sufficient information for of an individual property.
use as a management tool.
• A survey should collect enough information to indicate a prop-
erty's level of significance, potential for designation, and aid in
its management and treatment decisions.
• The survey should clearly define key, character-defining fea-
tures of an individual property
• The survey should indicate those areas of the property which
are less sensitive, and where greater flexibility for alterations
is appropriate.
Policy -
Enhance the level of survey information that is available
to the public digitally.
Extensive digital information on the City's historic resources should
be readily accessible to the public.
Action HP-20A
Expand the use and content of the Historic Inventory
Database.
The historic property inventory should be integrated with the City's
GIS so that all information related to an individual property is easily
accessible to City staff and the public, including ongoing building
permit records.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION PLAN 3-25
CHAPTER 3e GOALS, POLICIES AND ACTIONS
CULTURAL RESOURCE SURVEY ENHANCEMENT
a
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3-26 CITY OF TACOMA
CHAPTER 3e GOALS, POLICIES AND ACTIONS
MANAGEMENT TOOLS COMPONENT
GOALS, POLICIES AND ACTIONS
A diverse assortment of preservation tools should serve Tacoma's needs. These tools should be based
on national standards and best practices, and at the same time should be tailored to Tacoma.
GOAL: HISTORIC RESOURCES ARE
PROTECTED FROM DEMOLITION .
Historically significant properties should be protected
from demolition whenever possible. This includes
properties eligible for, or listed in, local, state or .< �
w
national historic registers.
Policy H P-21 An emergencypreservation fund would
Provide effective demolition review procedures. help protect threatened resources.
Procedures for demolition review should protect both identified and KEY MANAGEMENT
potential historic resources from demolition. TOOLS ACTIONS
Action HP-21A
Consider expanding a demolition review and consideration tr sh HP 21 aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa
period to non-designated properties that may be historicallyhsrd(etrdr dmt
revI6�r aid oc�hs��feN��on��rrc�d
significant. bhm de rgr� tJd r iff—" t
Consideration should be given to expanding demolition review to rr� rbfifffya nif� n
include all within a historic or conservation district as
properties
well as non-single family residential properties that meet a spe- h1fFhrtcr� r pr , ry
cific age threshold and appear on a historic register or are likely to
be historically significant based on a predictive model. Note that a etrsh HP 24iaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaai;
review period may also allow for public notice and comment. See rf
apn tninfhim 1ff1
Demolition Consideration Periodon page 3-28 for more information. cfdgrh '
A demolition review process may be used to explore: C( nfr and ofen,upat
• Options for reuse by the current owner fhg pr ° tda
• Options for addressing potential economic hardship A�t«s(Y��HP 2k3B
• Options for sale of the property to another ownerpJtt
• The merits of considering landmark designation proceedings «g/
as a means of making other demolition prevention tools available
• Other options including relocation or deconstruction tdhtifr; tmldr tf'dr;;;;; `
Also see:
• Action HP-22E °tLrityr „;cl � ocf�i
Develop criteria for relocating a threatened resource. t� s�Y; ttt,
• Action H P-25A
* t�csfi HP 3�A�
Clarify and clean up the existing preservation ordinance. Presde uffrrhdty prr
vat,
g �
HISTORIC PRESERVATION PLAN 3-27
CHAPTER 3e GOALS, POLICIES AND ACTIONS
GOAL: I ToRic REsouRCES ARE Policy
PROTECTED FRom DEmOLITION. Provide tools and funding to address preservation
(CONTINUED) emergencies.
DEMOLITION Tools and funding should be available to protect historic resources
that are threatened by neglect or have been damaged by natural
CONSIDERATION PERIOD disasters.
n „ycsrr�rr�unr
Action H P-22A
b�laty d1y „fc�lr���� '� Expand Historic Tacoma's endangered property WATCH
elf Iafc�Fa � �frn ""'end �� �� list to address a wider range of threats to cultural
uir c � rF'i' a1aW/0% resources.
Historic Tacoma's WATCH list raises the level of alert for historic
prpehty resources that may be threatened with loss. Sites on list may be
tsfitr�st p 'fmrt proposed for demolition, may be suffering deterioration due to
i... i. neglect, or be subject to potential redevelopment which would
tiC3f1,,,,,Cffifcer'tc� dt '�mrhihfkh
r r destroy their significant features. The City should assist in provid-
chafd#t° ing data about such properties and their conditions to those who
aprpatf % y flUd may respond to these threats.
The WATCH list should be expanded to include:
uuhlh presfta „ ld j 'ct A wider range of threatened properties
tcfcchadtr (i peo ;fludfh ,,, Procedures for notifying building owners and City officials of a
,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,�,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,, building's deteriorating condition
An education and advocacy function to provide technical
assistance to owners of buildings on the WATCH list
Pence[fhn fhn �y nc � t Also see:
irlg,psfehtif
• Action HP-21A
r, ad+�racra L,t �, h Consider expanding a demolition review and consideration
period to non-designated properties that may be historically
� ufllr "'�a3�rr�Uf 'fh10 significant..
rdihnfitr�st perrr�lt hni
Action HP-22B
� Develop a disas
ter-response program for endangered proper-
ties.
t �i✓ igx�if� Cr /iiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii, Action H P-24A
aw.""Aftrria�f Expand minimum maintenance code requirements.
� 't�,,Ctm�rlr'lEi�a`
furin (i ,,c�shi � n �� Action HP-22B
tti caty .fidrtrty °GUn�m Develop a disaster-response program for endangered
� plcsF��s�'tl�rtin�a�(drhg,
properties.
+` �r�ft�t�g�xtr�tegyt�hfirn�nln�
p1 % h d An emergency response program for endangered properties is an
Itngfi �it Important part of the community's disaster planning efforts. It should
fst ntffi thprt�r define procedures to ensure the preservation of historic resources
�������������aaii��iiiiiii� in the event of an emergency such as an earthquake or fire. The
hlsctladrrlrf pxsa In
creed p� O response should include a timely evaluation of impacted structures
to determine the best treatment. Procedures for the interim stabili-
ME
zation of salvageable buildings should be included.
3-28 CITY OF TACOMA
CHAPTER 3e GOALS, POLICIES AND ACTIONS
Action HP-22C GOAL: HisToRic REsOURCES ARE
Establish an emergency preservation fund. PRoTEcTED FRom DEmOLITION.
A revolving fund administered by the City, a Public Development (CONTNuEiW
Authority (PDA) or a local non-profit, should be established to �V
address reservation emergencies. The fund may be used to
p g � y �� r�puul umu' hl
acquire threatened properties for rehabilitation and/or transfer to a `
responsible buyer. Proceeds from the re-sale of properties would
be used to replenish the fund, but consideration should also be
given to establishing a permanent funding source such as a per-
centage added to permit fees. See Public Development Authorities '
on the next page for more information.
Some preservation emergencies that the fund could address
include:
• Threats to historic resources due to owners who are unwill- The Pacific Avenue Historic District
ing or unable to make repairs under a minimum maintenance was demolished in 1985 to make
provision way for redevelopment.
• Threats to historic resources caused by disaster or other damage
The fund could be applied to projects involving one or more of the
following property types:
• All properties designated as national, state or local historic
landmarks
• Properties that may be eligible for national, state or local his-
toric landmark designation
• Other properties that may be considered to have historic value
Also see:
• Action HP-22D
Explore creating a Public Development Authority(PDA) or
other public corporation to address preservation emergencies.
• Action HP-32E
Extend the use of grant and loan programs.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION PLAN 3-29
CHAPTER 3e GOALS, POLICIES AND ACTIONS
GOAL: rsToRic REsouRCES ARE Action HP-22D
PROTECTED FRom DEmOLITION. Explore creating a Public Development Authority(PDA)
(CONTINUED) or other public corporation to address preservation
emergencies.
PUBLIc DEVELOPMENT Consideration should be given to establishing a PDA or other pub-
AUTHORITIES (PDAs) corporation to promote preservation objectives and administer
emergency preservation funds. See Public DevelopmentAuthorities
Th £ef1( h,ngc�inly' at left for more information.
,frsc fbrrh PubllrvcmnE
Authcsrifr tc ef ��i h
Also see:
'rr'l,h,�#�fr' '����J'I���rhC�.� �i
�iiii iiiiiiiio�%%/���////��� Action H P-22C
Establish an emergency preservation fund.
, ,,,,,,,,,
r ht cwn d co ° /n/9/0 Ah",
� (ly (ire fresfnhr pfen Action HP-22E
ia ,I,fr ("' r (lcr P[ fc Develop criteria for relocating a threatened resource.
ert +�teteff� t While relocation is not a preferred solution, it may be more desir-
able than demolition. The criteria for relocating a building should
provide for active reuse. See Criteria for Relocating a Historic
by:`
pityah ���"'%ash � � ��� Building below for recommendations on criteria for the relocation
hrt'ehp �ify�rr theur �c�f of historic resources.
the PDAandsoi£rsf
CRITERIA F®R RE L®CATI N G A H I ST®RI C BUILDING
Ir trtr �h t rr, �; ,,;
�a ifs .
p IItrr hifcF.�✓ frutur uu (l, d, nffi, hs ,, n
y a thrfcr� t��sh,�r, h fh c rn � �te i If fic#urhrfcs rt f
it
;;
nct<„ hfnrtt f„ H ���thfehne ,rcumst h rh
i % ,,,;; ii,,,, e iiii,,�% /a iiori/ ,/, i, ,,;
C3f rrr{'X� ;r,,, i c, ; .a i I'll
... y whr h „burldrh l r err d,n ( r ht Icso ticfh, i�i a(� n ,ve N
m�f�Laf< res ert
�� h � �i t, lh M the foff�s�rrn �rlt�fr
or c 10"
M 1 u rr� h �t
! 1 Thytrutuf , hretehd b; f�rrthr d # �itticsht (4
ern c� �d h��cf ✓t���sG��c�� Diu
tr .
,�� ��� ht to o
cf,, cfd � ettec
p 1
,,, 3,,Th�o(i [n�(bur(�fh end�if��u,ll�� �.rr�fel r'ecdrd�d,��f6r�r�tn �
f ;;fhtruture,
Pf�A�„o �r�trf fh '�ac�f(71a "dam Cff;; ; ,
I�c��n
011 ,rcludfo
f Ear t:
o �stru�Ube.
utta�s�rt %%
yf,,, ,
;. t,which (rr�rrrr�t���r(ddn ra rare,,. � ,
r
�ia ����oa� aiaaaaaa 6 %%/
%%% ,, ;;;;,
i�ufhVsF,f �rh,�tr s�la� �f�,f� �� r�h�k�rlrt�tiorr cf the burfd,fi
1,121
3-30 CITY OF TACOMA
CHAPTER 3e GOALS, POLICIES AND ACTIONS
Policy HP-23 GOAL: MsToRic REsOURCES ARE
Provide incentives to protect historic resources from PoorEcTED FRom DEmOLITION.
demolition. (CONTINUEV)
Incentives should encourage a climate of "good stewardship" for
historic resources that helps protect them from neglect or adverse TRANSFER OF
economic conditions. See the Incentives and Benefits section of this DEVELOPMENT
chapter for more information on recommended incentives to protect
historic resources.
i � rhfi� dsrnht n h
Action HP-23A
Consider establishing a transfer of development rights trr, ff pfIfrra � h
(TDR)program for historic properties. ��%
A TDR program for historic properties would encourage the pres-
ervation of historic structures while enabling increased density In pa� hiffbalfhgrh f vl
other parts of the city. A demonstration project could be used to carar " 'hhar�rhf '����
test the feasibility of using TDR as an incentive for historic preser-
vation. See Transfer of Development Rights at right for additional
f0� h, fni ht
information. fr
r "zofd...cs" ighafhnnfi
v The program would: p #o
fic
• Allow owners of historic properties to sell development rights. � ah """"""""""""""""'
• Allow the purchaser of the development rights to develop at a „���, ,,,,,�„�
greater density or height than would otherwise be allowed. �0"If"' 11 �
• Be particularly useful in mixed-use corridors and for special mh h�ghk� � sld � i y
property types, such as institutional facilities. froh� f� ah .....
at ' lafa
pr�3 I f FFf a f it
• Use partnerships with other preservation and conservation ,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,, ,,,��/i��������������������%��%
organizations, such as the Cascade Land Conservancy, to
iV11ng sa�E �rr�usf �� b
hold development rights for later transfer. r �� +haf fhf i ��diahc{ fcY
(,�h���bUIlCflf1��'thc�ll �r� c�r���itly
Also see: p rmrtt fi i (hrt r por.
fbr ��cr� ��d�f� ity Bcttf� ��hd ;
• Action HP-33C
Extend the range of zoning incentives for historic resources
g g
and conservation areas.
�dcswfrfwn r�r �m
Action HP-23B fr� 'ffr +afh femur flsc `
Establish an easement program. rd � t�cs Chi height tndfcl "
Easement programs offer tax advantages to property owners who �idu�fing efv �
re�ulat�on��kf�at fne�r� t in ��i
make a charitable gift donation of a portion of a historic property,
usually the complete exterior envelope. This tool extends greater dvcsprah ,,,m "'
protection than many other options, and can be used in combina- tc �ulat .�a������������������
tion with other tools. A private, non-profit organization should man-
age the program. The City's role is to cooperate in establishing the
program and in making its existence known to property owners.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION PLAN ® 1
CHAPTER 3e GOALS, POLICIES AND ACTIONS
GOAL: I ToRic REsouRCES ARE Policy
PROTECTED FRom DEmOLITION. Ensure continuing maintenance of historic buildings.
(CONTINUED) Historic buildings should be maintained and protected from damage
by inappropriate construction techniques.
ur
„„
Action HP-24A
Expand minimum maintenance code requirements.
A minimum maintenance clause in the preservation ordinance
should require an owner to keep the building in a sufficient state of
repair such that key features are preserved.
The clause should include provisions to notify the owner that
- --- the City is concerned about the condition of the property and
The 1890 Waddell Building at indicate that the owner should take appropriate measures.
1502 Pacific Avenue was saved The clause empowers the City to make repairs if the owner
from demolition and rehabilitated fails to do so and includes a mechanism for recovering City
to become part the Couryard by funds that may be spent in stabilizing the property.
Marriott development. The City should ensure that property owners are aware of
incentive and benefit programs that may be available to assist
those who do not have the financial ability to maintain their
property.
Also see:
• Action HP-22A
Expand Historic Tacoma's endangered property WATCH list to
address a wider range of threats to cultural resources..
• Action HP-27C
Enhance enforcement of preservation codes.
• Action HP-32E
Extend the use of grant and loan programs.
Action HP-24B
Consider a contractor certification program.
A certification program would require a license for a contractor to
work on buildings of a high level of historic significance, much as a
license is required for an electrician or a plumber. Such a program
will reduce permit violations.
-32 CITY OF TACOMA
CHAPTER 3e GOALS, POLICIES AND ACTIONS
GOAL: CLEAR AND COMPLETE
ORDINANCES GUIDE THE
PRESERVATION PROGRAM .
The preservation ordinance, zoning code and other ]
related codes, should be clear and easy to interpret.
Policy -
Update the Landmarks and Historic
Special Review Districts Code to reflect
current preservation policies and goals.
The Landmarks and Historic Special Review Districts Code should A system of clear and complete ordi-
be revised to reflect current preservation goals and policies. nances will help ensure the protec-
tion of Tacoma's historic resources
Action HP-25A such as the 1928 Bank of California
Clarify and clean up the existing preservation ordinance. Building at 1011 Pacific Avenue.
A technical clean up of the existing preservation code is needed to
ensure usability and consistency with preservation goals and policies.
Include these changes:
• Consolidate and clean up definitions.
• Revise the structure and purpose of the conservation district tool.
• Address demolition by neglect.
• Revise criteria for a determination of economic hardship as it
relates to demolition review.
Action HP-25B
Consider a tiered ranking system for historic significance.
A tiered ranking system should be considered to support different
levels of design review or categories of resource designation. See
Considerations fora TieredSystemon page3-24for more information.
Also see:
• Action HP-18C
Design the survey system to support the potential for a tiered
ranking of historic significance.
Action HP-25C
Develop procedures for re-classifying properties.
Provide a process for re-classifying a property where changes have
occurred that may lead to a different determination of significance.
This may include:
• Properties that should be re-evaluated when more information is available
• Properties that may have increased in significance
• Properties that may have lost significance
HISTORIC PRESERVATION PLAN 3-33
CHAPTER 3: GOALS, POLICIES AND ACTIONS
GOAL: CLEAR AND COMPLETE Policy HP-26
ORDINANcEs GUIDE THE Use zoning tools to promote historic preservation goals
PRESERVATION PROGRAM. and support an overall heritage conservation system.
(CONTINUED) Zoning tools should promote preservation policies and goals and
support an overall heritage conservation system that protects
desired development patterns throughout the community. See The
Heritage Conservation System on page 3-36 for more information.
Action HP-26A
Review the existing zoning code to determine where
conflicts may exist with preservation policies and goals.
The existing zoning code (Chapter 13.06 of the Tacoma Municipal
Code) should be reviewed for potential conflicts with policies and
goals for historic preservation.
Specific zoning code elements to review include:
• Permitted heights
• Permitted or prohibited uses
• Parking requirements
Also see:
• Action HP-5A
Tailor energy efficiency standards to fit historic resources.
• Action HP-6A
Promote adaptive reuse of historic properties.
• Action HP-23A
Consider establishing a transfer of development rights (TDR)
program for historic properties.
• Action HP-26B
Explore context-sensitive zoning.
• Action HP-33C
Extend the range of zoning incentives for historic resources
and conservation areas.
3-34 CITY OF TACOMA
CHAPTER 3e GOALS, POLICIES AND ACTIONS
Action HP-26B GOAL: CLEAR AND COMPLETE
Explore context-sensitive zoning. ORDINANcEs GUIDE THE
When updating the zoning code (Chapter 13.06 of the Tacoma PRESERVATION PROGRAM.
Municipal Code), consider how standards may be tailored to spe- (CoNTINuEv)
cific types of area, neighborhood or development pattern to support
historic preservation policies and goals. Such context-sensitive
zoning standards could help protect the viability of existing struc-
tures and promote compatible infill construction in traditional or his-
toric areas. Note that the historic preservation program does not
have primary responsibility for the zoning code. See The Heritage
Conservation System on page 3-36 for more information.
Context-sensitive zoning standards may be implemented through:
• New base zone districts
• Changes to existing zone districts
• New design overlay districts
Elements that context-sensitive zoning standards may address include:
• Mass and scale
• Height
• Lot coverage
• Setbacks
Also see:
• Action HP-6A
Promote adaptive reuse of historic properties.
• Action HP-8A
Explore alternative tools for heritage conservation that main-
tain neighborhood character.
• Action HP-26A
Review the existing zoning code to determine where conflicts
may exist with preservation policies and goals.
• Action HP-33C
Extend the range of zoning incentives for historic resources
and conservation areas.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION PLAN 3-35
CHAPTER 3e GOALS, POLICIES AND ACTIONS
TH E HERITAGE CONSERVATION SYSTEM
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-36 CITY OF TACOMA
CHAPTER 3e GOALS, POLICIES AND ACTIONS
GOAL: THE CITY'S PROJECT
PERMITgpp� T/py�SUBMITTq CryECKLIST REVIEW AND ENFORCEMENT _ s °� EC
PROGRAMS PROMOTE
PRESERVATION OBJECTIVES.
The City's process for project review and
approval should be streamlined to provide a
positive experience for applicants and to pro- '�a
mote both overall, and preservation specific,
ry 1' Wlht,
goals. Enforcement programs should be closely �s' "<< °
coordinated to the review process to ensure that °
ar
projects are developed per approved specifica-
tions. During the review of proposed projects,
a City staff team leader should coordinate the
requirements of multiple City departments as
well as benefits, incentives and flexible build-
ing code options available to promote historic
preservation.
Policy HP-27
Streamline project review and enforcement to promote The City's process for project re view
preservation objectives. and approval should be streamlined
to provide a positive experience
Seek ways to streamline programs and accomplish core objectives for applicants and to promote both
in the most efficient ways. overall, and preservation specific,
goals.
Action HP-27A
Identify a team leader to coordinate project review.
A team leader should work with applicants to coordinate require-
ments made by multiple City departments including the building
official and preservation office. This team leader will help resolve
any conflicting requirements and help ensure that project strategies
promote the City's overall, and preservation-specific, goals.
Also see:
• Action HP-33C
Extend the range of zoning incentives for historic resources
and conservation areas.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION PLAN ® 7
CHAPTER 3e GOALS, POLICIES AND ACTIONS
GOAL: THE CITYS PROJECT Action HP-27B
VIEW ANDENFORCEMENT Expand administrative permitting.
PROGRAMS PROMOTE Staff should be able to approve a wide range of projects using
PRESERVATION OBJECTIVES. detailed criteria for administrative permitting.
(CONTINUED)
Action HP-27C
Enhance enforcement of preservation codes.
Consider development of a stand-alone enforcement and penalty
policy in the preservation code. Use a Certificate of Occupancy
compliance-tracking form to aid code enforcement staff in site
inspections for preservation-related work.
3-38 CITY OF TACOMA
CHAPTER 3e GOALS, POLICIES AND ACTIONS
GOAL: RESOURCE DESIGNATION
CATEGORIES HELP INDICATE
PRIORITIES FOR CONSERVATION
OF RESOURCES .
Different types of designation categories should
be used to reflect degrees of significance, alterna-
tive approaches for protection and different man-
agement objectives. Having a range of program
tools allows each one to better fit the intent of their a,
use. It also provides options for program flexibility.
Policy -
Establish clear categories for resource
designation.
Identify levels of historic designation for individ-
ual resources and districts. The expanded set of
designation levels should facilitate the strategic
management of historic resources. Levels should reflect degrees of The conservation district should
significance, the intent of the designation and the desired degree of be defined as a land-use planning
protection of the resource. and neighborhood character man-
agement tool that is clearly distin-
Ac�gtio�+n�gH¢}�P�p-q�28¢A �+ ¢py conservation
p� ¢ py district
/ro¢ ¢ guished from a historic district.
Revise the City's existing conservation 6.9islric tool.
Redefine and revise the conservation district as a land-use plan-
ning and neighborhood character management tool that is clearly
distinguished from a historic district. In addition to its current primary
use as a buffer area around a historic district, the redefined con-
servation district tool should be available for use in a wider range
of circumstances. A conservation district may be used in an area or
neighborhood that does not qualify as a locally designated Tacoma
historic district. However, it should include some historic resources.
The revised conservation district should be available for application in:
• Areas seeking to preserve traditional development patterns
• Areas seeking to promote compatible development
• Areas that are adjacent to historic districts
Each conservation district should have a clearly-defined intent state-
ment and may include policies for using zoning, design review and
specific incentives. See Conservation Districts on page 3-40 for more
information.
Also see:
• Action HP-26B
Explore context-sensitive zoning.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION PLAN 3-39
CHAPTER 3: GOALS, POLICIES AND ACTIONS
CONSERVATION DISTRICTS
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3-40 CITY OF TACOMA
CHAPTER 3e GOALS, POLICIES AND ACTIONS
Action HP-28B GOAL: E ouRc E IGN TION
Clarify criteria for historic district designation to assure its CATEGORIES HELP INDICATE
appropriate use as a preservation tool. PRIORITIES FOR CONSERVATION
Include these criteria for district designation: OF E OURCE . (CONTINUEiD)
• Consideration of historic significance
• Intent of designation
• Other community planning objectives
• Alternative tools to achieve conservation goals for the pro-
posed district
Action HP-28C
Broaden resource designation criteria to allow for
exceptions to the 50-year criterion.
The resources that are historically significant today do not include
all the resources that will be significant in the future. The system
should permit younger resources to be designated when they meet
criteria.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION PLAN 3-41
CHAPTER 3: GOALS, POLICIES AND ACTIONS
GOAL: REsOURcEDESIGNATION Policy HP-29
CATEGORIES HELP INDicATE Schedule designation of historic resources according to
PRIORITIES FOR CONSERVATION clearly defined priorities.
OFREsouRcEs. (CoNnNup) Clear priorities for the nomination and designation of historic
resources support efficient use of City staff's time.
Action HP-29A
Establish criteria to prioritize requests for historic
landmark, historic district and conservation district
designation.
The criteria for establishing priorities should address the signifi-
cance of the property, any plans for improvements that the owner
may anticipate, as well as fit with other community planning ini-
tiatives. See Criteria For Designating Individual Landmarks on
page 3-43 as well as Criteria for Designating Historic Districts and
Criteria for Designating Conservation Districts on page 3-44 for
more information.
3-42 CITY OF TACOMA
CHAPTER 3: GOALS, POLICIES AND ACTIONS
CRITERIA FOR DESIGNATING INDIVIDUAL LANDMARKS
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HISTORIC PRESERVATION PLAN ®4
CHAPTER 3e GOALS, POLICIES AND ACTIONS
CRITERIA FOR DESIGNATING HISTORIc DISTRICTS
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3-44 CITY OF TACOMA
CHAPTER 3e GOALS, POLICIES AND ACTIONS
GOAL: THE DESIRED CHARACTER L)Fs�vrq
OF TRADITIONAL AREAS OF THE Fop
CITY IS MAINTAINED .
A
Preservation and conservation efforts should be .....
guided by standards and criteria that are tailored UIS"IX)R,K K G�M QA��C ,9 CHARAC]C �
to Tacoma. These should focus on retaining key
features of traditional building while accommodat-
ing compatible changes and new investment that
respect the established context. a� °'
Policy HP-30 !A1NJ"`Xp�iTING' rA:., �U t, I
M�r bYloddaur ad O kre!wac yza..
Provide design guidelines that promote
compatible development.
Clear, well-illustrated design guidelines specific to t
Tacoma's resources should guide historic rehabil-
itation, infrastructure maintenance and new con-
struction in historic or conservation districts. Citywide design guide- PreviouslypublishedCitybrochures
lines should address the general treatment of historic resources could provide a starting point for
while more specific guidelines address the unique character of indi- new well-illustrated citywide historic
vidual historic districts.All design guidelines should be easily acces-
design guidelines.
sible and provide flexibility for property owners with differing finan-
cial resources. See Action HP-32Efor more information on potential
programs to assist owners with limited financial resources.
Action HP-30A
Provide user-friendly preservation design guidelines that
apply citywide.
Well-illustrated design guidelines should be developed to address
historic resources citywide, including rehabilitation of buildings,
sites and historic infrastructure (such as brick streets).
Citywide design guidelines should:
• Address emerging issues and core preservation principles
• Address sustainability, including energy conservation and Design guidelines should promote
generation appropriate rehabilitation projects.
• Provide guidance on feasible design solutions
• Encourage new design that is sensitive to its historic context
(such as new development that references historic patterns
that may have previously existed on a site)
• Promote flexible design solutions that are consistent with
preservation principles
• Reflect the Secretary of the Interior's Standards for
Rehabilitation
• Be extensively illustrated
• Guide compatible retrofits to enhance energy efficiency
HISTORIC PRESERVATION PLAN ®4
CHAPTER 3e GOALS, POLICIES AND ACTIONS
Action HP-30B
Provide design guidelines tailored to individual historic
and conservation districts.
District-specific design guidelines should work in concert with gen-
eral, g g g
eral, citywide guidelines and address features in the public and
private realms. Where district design guidelines already exist, an
update should be scheduled.
District design guidelines should:
• Clearly illustrate the character of the districts
• Include a description of specific goals for the area
Action HP-30C
Include policies for the treatment of recent past
Younger properties that may now resources.
be considered for historic signifi-
cance require somewhat different Younger properties that may now be considered for historic sig-
treatment in permitting and review. nificance require somewhat different treatment in permitting and
review. Some have materials that may be more difficult to treat than
those in more traditional historic properties. Specific design guide-
lines should be developed for the treatment of these recent past
buildings and incorporated into citywide design guidelines. These
guidelines may offer more flexibility in using replacement materials
and even in altering some features.
-46 CITY OF TACOMA
CHAPTER 3e GOALS, POLICIES AND ACTIONS
INCENTIVES AND BENEFITS COMPONENT
GOALS, POLICIES AND ACTIONS
An effective preservation program offers special benefits to attract investment in historic properties and
encourage property owners to follow appropriate rehabilitation procedures. This may include financial
assistance for owners with limited budgets, tax breaks, technical assistance or regulatory relief such as
streamlined review processes and building code flexibility. Some potential incentives and benefits, such
as Transfer of Development Rights(TDR), are described in the Management Tools section of this chapter.
GOAL: A COORDINATED SYSTEM
OF INCENTIVES AND BENEFITS
STIMULATES PRESERVATION AND
CONSERVATION IN TACOMA.
Incentives should support appropriate rehabilitation
and continued use of historic resources. Incentives
should also support owners seeking local designation
of eligible historic resources and conservation areas.
Policy HP-31 EMrlIr1 I n;
Offer incentives and benefits to cover a range of conditions. An effective preservation program
Incentives and benefits should address a range of conditions, rec- offers special benefits to attract
ognizing property owner's varied needs. investment in historic properties.
Conditions that incentives and benefits should address include:
• Different types of owners (i.e., long time owner vs. recent pur-
chaser or resident owner vs. developer)
• Different property types (i.e., commercial, residential, institu-
tional and industrial)
• Different levels of significance and designation (i.e., historic
districts, conservation districts, levels of significance)
Action HP-31A
Publish summaries of incentives and benefits.
Publications should promote the use of incentives and benefits by show-
ing how they may be combined and highlighting successful case studies.
Action HP-31 B
Maintain incentives in a range of categories.
Incentives should be developed and maintained in several categories,
Categories of incentives include:
• Financial
• Regulatory
• Technical Assistance
HISTORIC PRESERVATION PLAN 3-47
CHAPTER 3: GOALS, POLICIES AND ACTIONS
GOAL:ACOORDINATED SYSTEM Policy HP-32
OF INCENTIVES ANDBENEFITS Promote financial incentives that stimulate investment in
STIMULATES PRESERVATION AND historic properties.
CONSERVATION iNTAcomA. Property tax incentives and federal income tax credit programs are
(CONTINUED) highly effective and their continued use should be a priority. Other pro-
grams complement these incentives and should be featured as well.
Action HP-32A
Promote continuing use of the Washington State Special
Valuation program.
Action HP-32B
Promote continuing use of the Federal Income Tax Credit
for certified rehabilitation of historic buildings.
Action HP-32C
Continue to seek ways to apply the Current Use
Assessment program to cultural and historic resources.
Action HP-32D
Promote use of the City's multifamily tax incentive in
projects with historic buildings.
Consider offering flexibility in threshold requirements when pres-
ervation objectives otherwise may be constrained. Consideration
should also be given to establishing a loan fund that focuses on
bridging the gap that may exist in market-based financing.
Action HP-32E
Extend the use of grant and loan programs.
Grant and loan programs should be available to promote projects
that meet preservation objectives and assist property owners that
do not have the financial ability to adequately maintain or rehabili-
tate their property. Criteria for potential financial assistance should
be administered separately from the design review process.
Action HP-32F
Consider a potential local sales tax rebate incentive, to
apply to materials purchased in the city and used in an
appropriate rehabilitation.
®4 CITY OF TACOMA
CHAPTER 3: GOALS, POLICIES AND ACTIONS
Policy HP-33 GOAL:ACOORDINATED SYSTEM
Enhance regulatory incentives to encourage OF INCENTIVES AND BENEFITS
preservation and conservation. STIMULATES PRESERVATION AND
Focus on avoiding unintentional obstacles to preservation in other CONSERVATION iNTAcomA.
city regulations, and also provide added flexibility in other regula- (CONTINUEV)
tions as they apply to historic resources and conservation areas.
Action HP-33A
Promote appropriate use of flexibility provided in the
building code.
Promote awareness of the provisions in the International Existing
Buildings Code that facilitate rehabilitation of older buildings and
provide training to code officials in their constructive use. Case
studies should also be published to address specific code issues
that frequently arise and to demonstrate successful solutions.
Action HP-33B
Promote the use of Mixed-Use Center and Downtown
zoning incentives for preservation projects.
Promote zoning incentives such as height bonuses for preserva-
tion projects in Mixed-Use Centers and parking waivers for exist-
ing buildings Downtown and in Mixed-Use Centers. See Mixed-Use
Center Districts on page 2-25 for more information.
Action HP-33C
Extend the range of zoning incentives for historic
resources and conservation areas.
Incentives to consider when a preservation project is involved:
• Permit additional height in an addition or adjacent new construction
• Reduce or waive parking requirements(i.e.extend waiver of parking
requirements for existing buildings in Downtown and Mixed-Use
Center districts to designated historic resources in other areas).
• Permit carriage houses(i.e., detached Accessory Dwelling Unit)in
selected residential districts
• Permit some conditional uses in historic or conservation districts
• Flexibility in transparency requirements
• Permit flexibility in setbacks where an addition to a historic building
is involved
• Shortened review and permitting schedules
Also see:
• Action HP-23A
Consider establishing a transfer of development rights (TDR)
program for historic properties.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION PLAN ®4
CHAPTER 3: GOALS, POLICIES AND ACTIONS
GOAL:ACOORDINATED SYSTEM Policy HP-34
OF INCENTIVES AND BENEFITS Expand technical assistance programs to promote
STIMULATES PRESERVATION AND preservation and conservation.
CONSERVATION iNTAcomA. Technical assistance is especially valuable to homeowners and to
(CONTINUED) small commercial properties, but also may be strongly appreciated
by institutional property owners.
Action HP-34A
Explore a design assistance program (small assistance
grants; voluntary program).
Action HP-34B
Explore the potential to apply the Main Street program to
neighborhood commercial centers.
Action HP-34C
Assist with tax credit certification.
Action HP-34D
Provide technical "how to"information to property owners.
3-50 CITY OF TACOMA
CHAPTER 3e GOALS, POLICIES AND ACTIONS
EDUCATION COMPONENT
GOALS, POLICIES AND ACTIONS
Education should take a more prominent role in preservation and work to build the constituency for historic
preservation. Helping property owners learn how to maintain their historic properties as active, viable assets
is key to a successful preservation program. Many property owners willingly follow appropriate rehabilitation
procedures and develop compatible designs when they are well informed about preservation objectives.
Education and outreach is often a function of a non-
profit partner organization that promotes preserva-
tion. See the Advocacy section for more informa-
tion on the role of Tacoma's preservation partners. ri
GOAL: THE PUBLIC APPRECIATES
TACOMA'S DIVERSE HISTORY AND
ITS HISTORIC RESOURCES . � °a`�'� ��k�.��x,PA. � Wµ
Promote the understanding of diverse historical per- I
spectives and embrace Tacoma's rich cultural history. "XI, "`
Policy HP-35
q
Provide tools to educate the public
regarding Tacoma's history and resources.
Action HP-35A The City of Tacoma produced an
Prepare educational publications on the Cit 's historyand educational brochure on historic
p p ystorefronts in 1997.
the benefits of historic preservation.
Publications should be available in both hard copy and on the City's web site. KEY EDUCATION
Such publications should address: ACTIONS
• Historic background of Tacoma Acton HP 35B
• The environmental benefits of historic preservation AplyGnif �h� �rf �� tll
• The economic benefits of historic preservation ffgiih�fh�onnh�rr� rhs
• Case studies on successful preservation projects in Tacoma NAtk�l m Nl r c�h oil owr e
Exposure should also be increased through TV Tacoma, neighbor-
hood orga-
nizations
councils, the Chamber of Commerce, trade and tourism PFparecft�sn1fa1 � s %'
and the mainstream media. n�.
Action HP-35B Action HP k3A
Apply uniform criteria for installing monuments and
commemorative markers on city-owned properties and fights-of-Way
The purpose of the program is to increase public awareness of the
p p p g p
cultural heritage of the city and enhance the enjoyment of its historic tfon rlafd fhf�fh(nfi�sh h(
sites. See Historic Markers on page 3-52 for more information. Web,
HISTORIC PRESERVATION PLAN ® 1
CHAPTER 3e GOALS, POLICIES AND ACTIONS
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-52 CITY OF TACOMA
CHAPTER 3e GOALS, POLICIES AND ACTIONS
GOAL: PRACTICAL EDUCATION
PROGRAMS SUPPORT HISTORIC m
PRESERVATION
While building a general appreciation of cultural
resources is important, a special initiative to build S
practical skills among property owners, construc-
tion trades and City departments is essential.
Policy -
Establish preservation training programs.
Training that helps program administrators, pres-
ervation partners and individuals be better stew-
ards is critical.
Action HP-36A
Provide training programs for preservation partners an
the general public.
Workshops that provide helpful information about rehabilitation
techniques and publications that build an understanding of historic
significance are examples of education and outreach strategies.
Workshops should include:
• Hands-on training for historic property owners
• Workshops for construction and trade professionals to provide Education programs for owners of
a better understanding of preservation such that they can historic properties such as Historic
advise clients on appropriate options. Tacoma's This Old House lecture
series illustrated on page 3-21 can
Action HP-36B encourage compatible rehabilitation
Establish a preservation planning and review training projects.
program for City staff.
All planning staff, and key staff in other departments should receive
a basic orientation to the preservation system and the principles
involved, such that they can better understand the program and
advise applicants on their options. Similarly, preservation staff should
be engaged in an orientation program directed at how they can par-
ticipate in other areas of planning effectively and how to take other
planning objectives into consideration when developing policies.
Action HP-36C
Provide training to the Landmarks Preservation
Commission.
Establish an on-going program to train the Landmarks Preservation
Commission. Topics should include the City's preservation policies
and review system as well as best practices in preservation planning.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION PLAN 3-53
CHAPTER 3e GOALS, POLICIES AND ACTIONS
GOAL: PRACTICALEDUCATION Policy HP-37
PROGRAMS SUTITIORT isTORIC Expand the use of web-based preservation tools.
PRESERVATION (CONT`NUEV) The primary education tool for property owners and contractors will
be the web. Relevant preservation information and policies should
be available on the preservation web site. This should include on-
line resources for basic building repair and maintenance.
Action HP-37A
Publish all essential preservation-related information on
the web.
Make all preservation information available on the City's web site.
• This should include surveys of individual properties, historic
contexts, maps and design guidelines.
• Educational materials such as brochures should be made
available.
• Case studies illustrating successful solutions should also be
provided.
Action HP-37B
Establish a "Self-Test"for historic significance.
Create a "self test" tool that property owners can use on line to
determine if a building is potentially significant.
• Include a check-list of questions, and links to data bases that
will provide relevant information.
Policy -
Incorporate preservation education into local school
programs.
Examples exist of successful programs, including some very suc-
cessful ones in Tacoma.These may include study modules in formal
class programs as well as extracurricular activities.
Action HP-38A
Preservation partners should encourage the integration
of cultural heritage and historic preservation in formal
curricula.
Promote education programs in schools, colleges, and other civic
organizations.
• Establish a central coordinator to promote curriculum develop-
ment.
• Provide for continuing operations such that programs are sus-
tained for many years.
—54 CITY OF TACOMA
CHAPTER 3e GOALS, POLICIES AND ACTIONS
ADVOCACY COMPONENT
GOALS, POLICIES AND ACTIONS
Advocacy programs are essential to promote historic preservation efforts. They work to expand the
base of preservation and engage partners in collaborative preservation programs. While the City's his-
toric preservation office will act as coordinator, advocacy efforts should be shared across a broad base
of independent community organizations and City departments. Community organizations should be
the primary advocates for historic preservation in Tacoma with the City's preservation office providing
support.
GOAL: COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS
ARE STRONG ADVOCATES FOR
HISTORIC PRESERVATION.
Community organizations should be the primary
advocates for historic preservation in Tacoma.
Historic Tacoma, the Tacoma Historical Society,
Pierce County Heritage League, and other inter-
est groups are well equipped to play advocacy
roles, with the City providing support. Leveraging
the capabilities of these organizations supports
broad community involvement and facilitates effi-
cient use of City resources in other elements of
the preservation program.
PolicyHP-39
Support existing partnerships for historic preservation. community organizations should
be the primary advocates for his-
Action HP-39A toric preservation in Tacoma.
Provide a forum to clarify the roles Of groups and KEY ADVOCACY
organizations that promote historic preservation. ACTIONS
Work with existing groups and organizations to clarify and docu-
ment the specific role that each will play in preservation advocacy
efforts. Advocacy roles should be incorporated into mission state- Pr6defFufn#c o( rrh
ments for each organization and published on the City's web site.
�I C��1 '!�r1c��„�5�'{#F1'I{5����11'�f�fFlf✓iiiiii %
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HISTORIC PRESERVATION PLAN 3-55
CHAPTER 3e GOALS, POLICIES AND ACTIONS
GOAL: COMMUNITY Action HP-39B
ORGANIZATIONS ARE STRONG Establish a framework for collaboration among community
ADVOCATES FOR MsToRic organizations.
PRESERVATION. (CONTINUEV) Regularly scheduled City-sponsored work sessions and funding for
organization members to attend meetings and educational semi-
nars related to preservation will support more effective collabora-
tion.
Also see:
• Action HP-36A
Provide training programs for preservation partners and the
general public.
Action HP-39C
Improve coordination between Pierce County and the
City's preservation programs.
Include county preservationists in a "round table" that meets regu-
larly to share information.
-56 CITY OF TACOMA
CHAPTER 3: GOALS, POLICIES AND ACTIONS
Policy HP-40 GOAL: COMMUNITY
Foster new partnerships in historic preservation. ORGANIZATIONS ARE STRONG
Goals for historic preservation often overlap with other groups. ADVOCATES FORHisToRic
Where this occurs, the opportunity exists to create new partnerships PRESERVATION. (CONTINUEV)
with groups that have not in the past been active. OTHER
Action HP-40A CERTIFIED LOCAL
Stage regular outreach events with community GOVERNMENTS IN
organizations that may become future partners in historic PIERCE COUNTY
preservation.
Identify community organizations whose goals coincide with those Huh
for historic preservation. Such organizations could become valu. .........
able advocacy partners if provided with appropriate education and
support. iiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii
Action HP-40B
..........
Expand partnerships with other Certified Local
Governments in Pierce County.
Conduct regular meetings to share information and explore oppor-
tunities for cooperation.
Action HP-40C
Work with the Tacoma/Pierce County Health Department
to promote historic preservation objectives.
Promote the health benefits of historic or traditional neighborhoods.
Areas built before the dominance of the automobile are pedestrian-
friendly and include a mix of uses that promote walking and social
interaction. Often, such neighborhoods also provide accessible
services that facilitate aging in place.
Action HP-40D
Work with economic development partners to include
historic resources in redevelopment policies and
economic development plans.
Collaborate with economic development partners to promote the
use of historic resources within redevelopment projects and in
neighborhood plans for economic development. Historic build-
ings have been shown to work as successful incubators for a wide
range of development types, from places for entry-level rents to
high prestige addresses in historic downtowns.
Also see:
• Action HP-713
Coordinate preservation efforts with support for local businesses.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION PLAN ® 7
CHAPTER 3e GOALS, POLICIES AND ACTIONS
GOAL: COMMUNITY Action HP-40E
ORGANIZATIONS ARE STRONG Work with affordable housing organizations to use historic
ADVOCATES Foy isTomc resources in their work.
PRESERVATION. (CONTINUEV) Collaborate with affordable housing partners, including the Tacoma
Housing Authority, to promote the benefits of historic preservation.
Most older neighborhoods have a diversity of housing types and
costs that are difficult to replicate because of the substantial cost of
new construction. In many cases, such neighborhoods also provide
opportunities for accessory dwelling units or carriage houses that
provide additional options for market-rate affordable housing.
Also see:
• Action HP-11 A
Promote urban development strategies that are compatible
with historic preservation.
Action HP-40F
Expand partnerships with sustainability organizations and
programs.
Create relationships with sustainability organizations and programs
to promote the benefits of historic preservation including conser-
vation of embodied energy and reduction of construction waste.
As sustainability programs develop, it will be important to empha-
size the overlap with preservation objectives. See the Environmental
Component of Sustainabilityon page IN-6 for more information.
Also see:
• Action HP-3A
Provide tools to encourage cooperation between advocates
for historic preservation and sustainability.
• Action HP-313
Provide information about the environmental benefits of
preservation of existing buildings as part of the citywide
sustainability program.
• Action HP-41A
Assist in the City's efforts to promote sustainability.
3-58 CITY OF TACOMA
CHAPTER 3e GOALS, POLICIES AND ACTIONS
GOAL: CITY DEPARTMENTS �
COLLABORATE TO PROMOTE
HISTORIC PRESERVATION . � ' ,
City departments and agencies should work with
the historic preservation office to promote pres-
ervation efforts and assist with implementation
of the Preservation Plan. A range of City depart-
ments share an interest in historic preservation,
from Community and Economic Development
and Public Works to Public Utilities. In some
cases shared interests are based on geographic '� 1l overlap such as when a Public Works project is
undertaken within a designated historic district. In 1
other cases, shared interests exist at the policy t
level such as when the rehabilitation of historic
resources supports goals for economic develop-
ment. Collaboration among City departments will
ensure that historic preservation is an integral part
of the culture of the city. y
Policy - 1
Collaborate with other City departments to promote the The Pierce County Chamber of
benefits of historic preservation Commerce offices are located in the
1920 Rust Building at 950 Pacific
Building partnerships with a range of City agencies and departments Street in downtown Tacoma. The
to achieve shared goals and policies is important. Chamber is a key economic devel-
opment partner.
Action+ �+¢ Hy P.¢�-y4�p�g�1 A¢ �+ efforts
y}�+ ¢ /ry7 ¢�q sustainability.
¢ py ¢
Assist to the City's efforts to promote sustainabtltty
A range of City departments, including the preservation office,
should cooperate to promote goals for community sustainability.
The City historic preservation officer should meet regularly with the
City's Office of Sustainability manager. In addition, the relationship
between historic preservation and community sustainability should
be clearly referenced on the City web site and in City publications.
Also see:
• Action HP-3A
Provide tools to encourage cooperation between advocates
for historic preservation and sustainability.
• Action HP-40F
Expand partnerships with sustainability organizations and
programs.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION PLAN 3-59
CHAPTER 3e GOALS, POLICIES AND ACTIONS
-----------------------
i
i
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r
The Tacoma waterfront in 1912(Source: University of Washington, Digital
Collection)
-60 CITY OF TACOMA
HISTORIC PRESERVATION PLAN
CHAPTER 4
►rAt
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The preservation element is far-reaching and requires strategic phasing of its actions.
While many actions should be accomplished in the near-term, others will take more time
to achieve. Some of these are ones that require a substantial allocation of resources to
execute, which may mean phasing them in stages. Others require collaborative efforts
of many preservation partners. Still others fall later in a sequence of planned activities,
and therefore cannot be accomplished until preceding tasks are completed.
This chapter presents the recommended
timing for each of the actions set forth
in Chapter 3. It reflects priorities held by
preservation advocates in Tacoma, as well
a consideration of the interaction of the
actions with other potential work efforts.
The specific implementation schedule is
provided in a separate spreadsheet that
indicates the preferred timing, and key
players for each action.
PHASING CRITERIA
Implementing the Preservation Element of the Comprehensive Plan """"
will be an ongoing process. Because of limited financial and human
resources, priorities must be carefully established. The list of criteria Phasing Criteria............................4-1
that follows should be used in determining priorities for implementa- Implementation Table...................4-3
tion. Priority should be given to those projects that meet a significant
number of these criteria.
1 . Cost-effectiveness
The project can be implemented for minimum cost, may be coor-
dinated with other projects within the organization to share costs,
or costs can be shared with other organizations and individuals.
For example, if Public Works has scheduled street improve-
ments in an area, then joining that work with repair of historic
streetscape features, or perhaps installing interpretive markers,
would be cost-effective. Projects that engage other groups and
agencies to accomplish mutually-shared objectives would also
receive high priority.
4-1
CHAPTER 4e IMPLEMENTATION
2. Broad benefits
' The project will serve a mix of user groups and will benefit the
most people.
For example, enhancing technical assistance programs to
1 serve a broader number of people would have broad benefits.
Similarly, developing design guidelines that clarify the permitting
l � and review process for all affected property owners would yield
broad benefits. On-going education and training programs often
will have broad benefits as well.
1JU�y55)'�a�
w „ 3. Connection with other projects
The project will help to complete a work item that is already well
1 established and may be easily completed as a part of it, and it is
in the appropriate sequence of related projects.
Conducting a survey of historic resources that completes previ-
ous work of a related nature is an example. Or when a neighbor-
hood is advocating to be designated a historic district, then com-
pleting a survey of the area would be a connection that merits
priority. Many actions in the plan are linked to other projects, and
Phased implementation of the Historic each should be executed in the appropriate sequence.
Preservation Plan should give priority
to actions that meet a range of criteria. 4. Exceptional project
The project will provide an exceptional educational, aesthetic, or
cultural experience.
Working to preserve a noteworthy building that is considered of
special value to the community is an example.
5. Emergency response
The project will prevent imminent loss of character or demolition
of a cultural resource.
Developing the tools to be able to respond to such emergencies
would be a high priority for this reason.
4®2 CITY OF TACOMA
CHAPTER 4e IMPLEMENTATION
IMPLEMENTATION TABLE ��,P
A separate implementation table establishes a ten-year, prioritized
strategy for the development and implementation of the preserva-
tion plan. As an interactive review and monitoring tool, it is designed
to be easily updated as needed throughout plan implementation.
Implementation Actions The actions listed in the implementa-
The first column in the table lists the actions previously described in tion table promote goals and objectives
Chapter 2. The actions are organized by category, goal and policy for historic preservation in Tacoma.
with overall categories distinguished by different colors. Where an IMPLEMENTATION
action relates to additional policies, they are listed in the "related TABLE STATUS
policies" column.
Implementation Phasing
The table columns to the right of Actions and Related Policies out-
line the ten-year implementation period for the plan and indicate
the suggested timing for each action. While some actions may be
� " u/
implemented during a one-year period, most will take several years. �� w��
o�wviu�o a ����p�ii did d��t�� ��Nl ���
Some actions will be ongoing over the full ten-year implementation
period.
Key Players and Supporting PartnersLS
The columns at the right of the table indicate the key players respon- U,�,UyUy,UUo
sible for implementation of each action. In many cases, supporting [ �
partners are also identified. "%"'��� '�""'"'�"""""'���OEM
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HISTORIC PRESERVATION PLAN 4-3
CHAPTER 4e IMPLEMENTATION
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��� CITY OF TACOMA