Tacoma: Hilltop's History Set to Come Alive With New Public Art Project
Washingtoner/10287433

~ Tacoma's Hilltop neighborhood is set to come alive with a new public art project that will celebrate the rich history and contributions of its community members. The project, titled the Hilltop Public Art Project, will feature a series of markers and plaques installed along Martin Luther King Jr. Way between 6th Avenue and South 19th Street.

This project is the result of extensive collaboration between the City of Tacoma, local artists, historians, community organizations, and residents. A dedicated steering group, made up of Hilltop stakeholders, has played a crucial role in shaping the direction of the project and ensuring its authenticity.

Mayor Victoria Woodards expressed her excitement for the project, stating that it is not only a tribute to the legacy of African American leaders in the community but also a commitment to recognizing and respecting their work towards a more just and equitable society. She also shared her personal experience of meeting and learning from these remarkable individuals.

More on Washingtoner

• Gravis Law Earns 2026 Great Place To Work Certification™ with 89% Employee Approval
• Most Americans Choose Their Water Brand Because of Its Natural Source — Yet Fewer Than 3 in 10 Understand What Spring Water Actually Is
• Unlocking Multi-Sector Growth; Graphite Acquisition Powers EV Entry While Streamlined Consumer Snack Business Fuels Growth: (N A S D A Q: SOWG)
• Permian Museum Adds Carbonaceous Chondrite Reference Photos
• L2 Aviation Receives FAA STC and PMA for Klatt Works SAVED™ Smoke Vision System

Council Member Jamika Scott echoed Mayor Woodards' sentiments, emphasizing that this project is a reflection of authentic community collaboration. She also highlighted the importance of recognizing individuals and events that have shaped Hilltop into what it is today, creating a lasting legacy for future generations.

Local artist, historian, and Hilltop resident Whitney Brady is leading the development of content for 20 bronze plaques and 18 granite markers. These markers will be accompanied by a comprehensive sign with project information and an online component providing further historical context and resources.

The first phase of the project will feature nine granite markers dedicated to remarkable individuals who have made significant contributions to the Hilltop community. These honorees include Rev. Earnest Stonewall Brazill, Alberta Julie Canada, Bertie Marie Edwards, Ray Gibson, Harold Moss, George Putnam Riley, Frank H Russell, Helen Stafford, and Virginia Taylor.

More on Washingtoner

• Axencis Launches Performance Partnership for Brand Protection
• CCHR Says New OIG Report Raises Concerns about Drugging Elderly with Antipsychotics
• Spokane: Abor Day Celebration 2026
• Spokane Launches 'Summer of Soccer' Community Campaign
• Project Pretzel Introduces a New System for Running Renovation Projects with Built In Contracts and Real Time Execution

Brady emphasized that these markers will serve as enduring reminders to future generations of the impact these individuals have had on Hilltop. The markers will be embedded in the sidewalk along Martin Luther King Jr. Way, making them easily accessible to the community.

Funding for this project comes from the Links to Opportunities capital project, which was developed with extensive community input. Community members with questions about the project can contact Rebecca Solverson in the Community and Economic Development Department's Arts & Cultural Vitality Division.

The Hilltop Public Art Project is a testament to the vibrant and diverse history of Tacoma's Hilltop neighborhood. It celebrates the individuals and events that have shaped the community and serves as a reminder of their enduring impact. With its collaborative approach and dedication to authenticity, this project is sure to be a source of pride for Hilltop residents and visitors alike.

---

Show All News | Disclaimer | Report Violation