Calling all Tacoma residents, riders of public transit, and business people working in and around downtown Tacoma! We need your input. Join us on Thursday, February 22, 6–8pm, for a free literary event focused on the future TRANSFORMation of the Theater District. Literary readings about the proposed revitalization will be shared by 6 local writers, ideas and input from attendees will be encouraged, and light refreshments will be served. The event will be held at the Pythian Temple, 926 1/2 Broadway, Tacoma. ADA entrance on Court C.

TRANSFORM is a project initiated in 2017 by Pierce Transit, City of Tacoma and Broadway Center for the Performing Arts, aimed at revitalizing Tacoma’s Theater District. These three project partners are committed to working with the community to develop a plan to redesign the transportation and cultural hub framed by 9th and 11th Streets between Broadway and Pacific Avenue into a vibrant district at the heart of downtown.

“What we want to end up with is a plan that sparks change, and makes this district better for our transit riders, theater-goers, residents, workers – everyone who cares about this district. So, while we get entertained by some cool local artists, we’ll also be checking in to see if our plan is headed in the right direction,” says Janine Robinson, Senior Planner, Pierce Transit.

This free community event, produced by Spaceworks Tacoma, will include a presentation of TRANSFORM plan progress; Creative Colloquy readings of creative non-fiction, essays, and poetry; an open mic at which the public can share their ideas; opportunities to give feedback and help guide plan development; and light refreshments. Featured writers include Moe’Neyah Holland, J Anne Fullerton, Blaine Johnson, Christina Butcher, Daniel Person, and Anita Schwedder. This event will provide an open dialogue exploring the many angles of revitalization. Facebook RSVPs are encouraged, however no registration is required. To join the event on Facebook, visit https://www.facebook.com/events/162857164501798/

“This event will be a unique and entertaining way for the community to provide us feedback,” said Heather Joy, Spaceworks Manager. “We are excited to hear from people who care about downtown and the future of our Theater District.”

For more information about the TRANSFORM project visit: www.tacomatheaterdistrict.com.

– Spaceworks Tacoma