Public menorah found vandalized on first day of Hanukkah in Gig Harbor, police say

A public menorah in Uptown Gig Harbor was vandalized on the first day of Hanukkah, prompting an investigation by local police as a potential hate crime. Rabbi Mendel Kesselman from the Chabad of Pierce County emphasized community support in the wake of the incident, which has sparked discussions about the importance of tolerance and kindness. Mayor Mary Barber expressed her horror at the vandalism, affirming that hate has no place in the community.

Gig Harbor shooting might have been in retaliation for 2021 homicide, charges say

Two men, Demondrae Jones and Rocco Anthony Fanara, are charged with first-degree assault and drive-by shooting in Gig Harbor, allegedly retaliating against the siblings of a convicted murderer. The incident, which occurred in June 2023, is linked to ongoing gang-related tensions stemming from the 2021 murder of Tyrone Sero. No injuries were reported during the drive-by shooting.

Horse killed in car accident near state highway in Pierce County Sunday evening

A tragic car accident on the Key Peninsula resulted in the death of Birdie, an 8-year-old quarter horse, after being spooked and escaping her paddock. The horse's owner, Amanda Dominguez, expressed gratitude for the community's support following the incident, which deeply affected her 12-year-old daughter. The accident highlights the dangers animals face near roadways and the emotional impact on families involved.

Stalled retail site plans in Gig Harbor could get new life as mixed use, developer says

Plans for a long-stalled shopping center in Gig Harbor may be revitalized, with the developer considering a mixed-use approach following community feedback. The project, initially set to feature a grocery store and various retail options, is now exploring multifamily housing as part of an evolving town center vision. Developer Jon Rose indicated strong interest from multiple grocery chains, hinting at potential progress.

Stalled retail site plans in Gig Harbor could get new life as mixed use, developer says

Plans for a mixed-use development at the Village at Harbor Hill in Gig Harbor may be revitalized according to developer Jon Rose of Raydient/Rayonier. Despite previous setbacks, including the withdrawal of a grocery chain, community interest has shifted towards a multifamily and retail blend, with strong interest from multiple grocers. A significant public meeting in June demonstrated local support for diverse development ideas.

Pierce County Approves Taylor Shellfish's Geoduck Farm Proposal Amid Local Opposition

The Pierce County Deputy Hearing Examiner has approved Taylor Shellfish Farms' proposal to establish a substantial geoduck farm in Burley Lagoon, despite local opposition citing environmental concerns. Residents have raised issues regarding noise, light pollution, and debris from shellfish operations, prompting the company to implement changes to mitigate impacts. The decision is now pending review by the Washington State Department of Ecology.

It would be Pierce Countys largest geoduck farm. Locals fought it. Now the state decides.

The ongoing debate over a proposed geoduck farm in Burley Lagoon, Pierce County, has reached a pivotal moment as the local hearing examiner approved permits for Taylor Shellfish Farms amidst significant community opposition. Residents have raised concerns about environmental impacts, noise, and light pollution, while the company asserts it has made changes to mitigate these issues. The Washington State Department of Ecology is now reviewing the decision, with a final ruling expected soon.

Rush applies to build triplexes in Purdy ahead of zoning change

Rush Companies is seeking to develop 90 new triplexes in Purdy, Washington, through its Purdy Interchange South project, just ahead of anticipated zoning changes by Pierce County. The project, which includes partnerships with adjacent property owners, aims to create multifamily housing on 18.64 acres next to Purdy Elementary School, while the company works to secure its development rights before the new comprehensive plan takes effect.

Two westbound lanes of Narrows Bridge to close this weekend

Traffic delays are expected this weekend as two westbound lanes of the Tacoma Narrows Bridge will close for repairs from December 14 to December 15. The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is addressing an expansion joint issue, impacting holiday travel plans for shoppers. Drivers should anticipate potential lane closures during the concrete curing process, even when work appears minimal.

In photos Mark Dickson Creeks record-breaking chum run

Mark Dickson Creek in Gig Harbor witnesses a remarkable resurgence of chum salmon, thanks to a dedicated restoration effort led by local residents over the past three decades. This article details the creek's historical struggles with salmon populations due to human intervention, highlighting the community's successful initiatives to restore the natural habitat. With stunning photographs by Carolyn Bick, the piece captures the beauty and significance of this environmental revival.