Tacoma WA Moving Companies

Tacoma, Washington

Nestled at the foot of Mount Rainier, along the shores of Commencement Bay in the fine state of Washington, Tacoma. Known as a livable and progressive intercontinental city. Tacoma, with a population of nearly 200,000 residents, has grown from its historical roots as the home of sawmills and a busy port, into a national axis for international exports, the arts and for its affordable cost of living. With all of these exciting amenities, it's no wonder so many people are moving to Tacoma.

History:
When the Hanson & Ackerman Mill was built in 1869, Tacoma became established in the lumber industry. The mill prospered as laborers, artisans and shopkeepers arrived with their families to settle in the city. In 1873, Tacoma was selected as the terminus for the Northern Pacific Railroad. The railroad increased Tacoma's industrial development. Coalmines were opened, and Tacoma became the major coaling post on the Pacific Coast. Transcontinental rail service to Tacoma was completed in 1887. Record numbers of settlers arrived and the town blossomed. Nevertheless, since Tacoma's economy was closely tied to the railroad industry, more than half of the city's banks closed when the railroad went bankrupt. The economy improved with the creation of the Weyerhaeuser Timber Company in 1900. During World War I, the shipping industry flourished, and the city profited from its proximity to Camp Lewis Commencement Bay, which was declared an official US Port of Entry in 1918. Although the Great Depression of the 1930s brought hard times, World War II stimulated industrial expansion and prosperity because of the city's location near Fort Lewis and McChord U.S. Air Force Base. During the 1950s, the city underwent widespread city planning. Voters adopted a progressive form of government, and massive renovation of Tacoma’s infrastructure was implemented. As the city's population increases, Tacoma continues to attract new industries while balancing environmental and quality-of-life concerns.

Economy:
Named one of "America's Most Livable Communities," Tacoma has attracted companies of all sizes. Recently, over a hundred high technology businesses have relocated or expanded to the city. It is home to the seventh busiest container handling port in the country, handling imports and exports ranging from lumber to apples. Other key cargoes handled by the port include forest products and automobiles. The quickly growing high technology sector adds to the city’s already diverse economy. Considerable work in satellite imaging, radio frequency identification systems and Internet and computer services continues to aid to economic stability. Tacoma is also a vital hub for agricultural and forest products. Tacoma's economy is still heavily involved with timber. Regional enterprises produce more flower bulbs than the Netherlands, as well as crops, such as berries and rhubarb. Tourism is also important to the city’s economy. Visitors are attracted to the waters of Commencement Bay and the state and national parks surrounding Tacoma.

Tourism:
There are plenty of opportunities for recreation and entertainment in Tacoma. Whether you want to spend a peaceful afternoon in a museum, have lunch at a sidewalk cafe, watch an exciting game of baseball, or take in a concert or exhibition at the Tacoma Dome. Head over to Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium. This zoo offers an amazing collection of animals and up-close encounters. You will see seahorses and sharks, peacocks and penguins, wolves and walrus, all in one place. Next, downtown Tacoma has experienced a revival of enormous scope over the past few decades; Experience the city’s vibrant nightlife, or settle in for a cozy meal. Then it is over to Tacoma's Theater District, which has been made more accessible and welcoming to tourists and residents alike. A wide variety of unique storefronts, restaurants and state-of-the-art museums are available to deepen your cultural senses and explore Downtown Tacoma. Finally, check out the Tacoma Dome. Hosts to over one million guests annually, the Tacoma Dome and its attached Exhibition Hall host over 300 days of events every year, including high school sports, family shows, concerts and several tradeshows.

Colleges/Universities:

• Seattle Central Community College
• Tacoma Community College

Interesting Facts:

• The name Tacoma stems from the Indian name for Mt. Rainier, "Tacobet," meaning Mother of the Waters.
• Tacoma is the founding city for Safe Streets, a national model for neighborhood protection and enhancement.
• The Tacoma Dome is the largest wood-domed arena in the world.