Marine Park
Bruce Dees & Associates worked on a master plan and Phase 1 construction documents for Judge Jack Tanner Park in 1986 when it was known as Marine Park. Marine Park was split into two parts, one part was renamed in 2018 to honor Judge Jack Tanner, who is a remarkable figure from Tacoma. The other part of Marine Park is now known as Cummings Park, named after one of the private property owners who transferred ownership of the waterfront properties to Parks Tacoma and the City of Tacoma.
Historical Impact
The land for this park was acquired from private owners of properties in the 1970s to the 1980s. At the time, Marine Park was the largest public open space along Ruston Way. The firm worked closely with Tacoma Planning and Public Works Departments to ensure that the final design met the city’s “Ruston Way Plan” criteria and satisfied shoreline management requirements.
Project Features
This project features an expanded sand beach, historic saw display, picnic area, and a beachfront promenade. Phase 1 construction improved the beach and upland environments. The historical head saw display was recovered from a former Ruston Way sawmill.
Awards
Marine Park won the International Northwest Parks and Recreation Association Design of the Year award in 1990.