This Web Page is Available in 100+ Languages

Need this web page translated? 需要翻译此页面吗? ត្រូវការបកប្រែភាសាគេហទំព័រនេះមែនទេ? 이 웹페이지의 번역이 필요하십니까? Хотите перевести эту страницу? ¿Necesita traducir esta página web? Kailangan isalin ang pahina sa web na ito? Bạn cần dịch trang web này?

This project will replace the remaining Fishing Wars Memorial Bridge spans (Phase 2) over the Puyallup River and eastward towards Fife. The project will begin with a planning phase dependent upon available funding.

Project Background

The Fishing Wars Memorial Bridge (FWMB) is a vital component of Tacoma’s freight network, serving as a bypass route when blockages impact Interstate 5. The current 1920s-era structure was not designed for today’s commercial truck traffic and, as a result, it is subject to significant load restrictions. Additionally, the structure does not allow for pedestrian and bicycle access. Most concerning, sections of the original bridge are now deteriorating. Over time, the bridge will require further load restrictions and increased maintenance unless it is replaced. 

The Fishing Wars Memorial Bridge replacement project addresses critical infrastructure needs supporting economic activity and user benefits for the Port of Tacoma, the Puyallup Tribe, the surrounding industrial area, and the Cities of Fife and Tacoma.

Project Description

The project is phase 2 of a phased plan and will complete replacement of the 2,400-footlong bridge. Phase 1 of the bridge replacement was completed in 2019. Phase 2 of the project will replace the remaining 1,400 feet of the bridge by installing a steel tied truss arch, which fully spans the Puyallup River, and makes the final connection into the City of Fife over the Union Pacific Railroad. The project will replace the existing structurally deficient and functionally obsolete three lane bridge over the Puyallup River with a four lane bridge with bike lanes and upgraded pedestrian facilities.

Project Location

Project Schedule

If the City is able to receive the requested grants, planning and preliminary design will begin in 2024.  Construction phasing is dependent upon future grants and funding sources not determined at this time.

Project Outreach

Once the planning and preliminary design phase has begun, informational flyers will be sent to all residents and businesses in the area notifying them of the pending project.  Notifications will also be provided via social media and this website.  

Project Funding

Planning and Design Phase

 Total Project Funding (eligible RAISE costs only)            $9,000,000                           87.8%

Ineligible RAISE costs                                                          $1,250,000                           12.2%

Overview and Estimated Project Costs

Additional Information

For additional project information, contact Chris Storey, Project Manager, at (253) 573-2484 or by email at cstorey@cityoftacoma.org.