The City of Tacoma and the Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber have signed a contract for the management of Tollefson Plaza that will have the Chamber manage this public space and its growth as a center for Tacoma’s civic life.

Bordered by the Greater Tacoma Convention and Trade Center, Courtyard by Marriot Hotel, Tacoma Art Museum, University of Washington, Tacoma, and several retail shops and restaurants, Tollefson Plaza will tie together a multitude of interests into one hub of activity.

Funding for the project has received early support as Rainier Pacific Bank became the first to donate $10,000 — an encouraging boost supporting the significant value the plaza will provide for the city.

Functions under consideration for the plaza include Friday outdoor lunch markets, big screen movie nights, annual holiday festivities, and a harvest festival, among other events.

Tables, chairs, and all-weather covering, along with other aesthetic improvements, will also create a more inviting environment. In addition, the Chamber will convene area stakeholders to discuss future details and strategies for the plaza.