Unveiling of NEW Plans for Elks Temple & New Tacoma Award Winners at City Center Luncheon

Businesses, organizations and individuals who make outstanding contributions to downtown Tacoma were recognized with the annual New Tacoma Awards at the Chamber’s quarterly City Center Luncheon today.

Grace Pleasants and Rick Moses from Elks on Broadway LLC presented exciting updates for the revitalization of the historic Elks Temple. While there was mention of previously announced plans including a brew-pub, spa and a ballroom, the developers presented new designs for a rooftop bar and a 100-room hotel for McMenamins—drawing applause from attendees. A groundbreaking during the first quarter of 2011 and then a grand opening fall of 2012 is anticipated.

The 2010 New Tacoma Awards winners are:

• Doyle’s Public House and Dragonfly for the Schoenfeld Award that recognizes exemplary performance and pizzazz as a retailer.
• Pacific Plaza, LLC for the Ghillarducci Award that recognizes successful new development, renovation or beautification.
• Tacoma Farmers Market and Stan Selden for the Union Station Award that recognizes leading organizations, companies or individuals that have built or sustained momentum for revitalization.
• Derek Young for the Popham Award that recognizes the individual who has done the most to build community spirit.

Find more photos of winners on the Chamber's website.


Nominees of the New Tacoma Awards were recognized at the luncheon as well, including 1022 South, Angela Jossy (The Speakeasy Art Cooperative), Jeff Brown (BCRA), Business Examiner, Children’s Museum of Tacoma, Quincy Henry, Seabury School, Tempest Lounge, Watermark Gifts and William W. Phillip Hall, University of Washington Tacoma.

Attendees also learned about Spaceworks Tacoma, (creative uses for vacant space) and heard information on Spring/Summer sports events from the Tacoma-Pierce County Sports Commission.

The Luncheon, held at the Courtyard by Marriot was sponsored by Gordon, Thomas, Honeywell. The next City Center Luncheon is scheduled for Friday, July 16, 2010.