Puallup makes downtown parklet program permanent, votes to add three more units

Puallup — The City Council voted Feb. 24 to make the downtown parklet program a permanent city service and to add three new parklet units to the existing seven.

City Clerk Dan Vessels summarized the program history and options, saying the city has operated the parklets in a pilot form since 2020 and that the installation model keeps costs at about $1,500 per parklet when installed and removed on the same day. "Option A is to authorize the parklet program as the annual ongoing program for 2026 and for future years with no fees to the businesses. city would absorb the $1,500 per parklet," Vessels told council members.

Council debate focused on public benefits and cost-sharing. Several council members, including Council Member Castima and Council Member Gilliam, argued the parklets produce public benefits — increased foot traffic, a sense of community and a more attractive downtown — that justify absorbing city installation costs while businesses retain insurance responsibilities. Mary Anderson, owner of Wicked Pie Pizza, told the council the parklet "has increased our revenue by a lot" and said customers sometimes travel from Seattle to use downtown parklets.

Council Member King moved to make the program permanent with no fee and to keep the existing siting priorities (at least four parklets along Meridian). After an amendment to manufacture three additional parklets and fund them with ELTAC dollars passed 6–0, the final motion passed by voice vote. Mayor Whitting noted staff will return with implementation details and that ELTAC review may be required before funds are allocated.

Council members also discussed operational details including program dates, distribution by lottery and placement priorities (Meridian corridor prioritized). City staff told council the agreed program area covers South Meridian between Pioneer Way and Stewart Avenue and could include up to two blocks east and west of Meridian. Vessels said a lottery and an application process will be managed by the clerk’s office and that streets engineers review installations for ADA and traffic safety.

The council directed staff to work with Puallup Main Street Association (PMSA) and merchants on siting and shade solutions and to return with final siting details and any necessary ELTAC committee input.

The council did not set enrollment fees for parks; businesses retain responsibility for the $2 million insurance requirement the city requires for each parklet permit.