Urban Design Studio
The Urban Design Studio (UDS) supports efforts to enhance and ensure a high-quality built environment throughout the City of Tacoma. At its core, Urban Design Studio work is centered on the commitment that design matters. Specific responsibilities include management of the Urban Design Project Review (UDPR) program and a portfolio of strategic advisory assignments with partners in the Planning and Development Services Department, other City departments, as well as external public and private groups.
Urban Design Project Review
Urban Design Project Review (UDPR) permit process consists of Administrative and Urban Design Board review paths. Urban Design Studio staff manages all aspects of the UDPR program. More information can be found here.
Urban Design Board
The Urban Design Studio provides staff support to the Urban Design Board, including its decision-making authority as part of the Urban Design Project Review permit process. More information on the Board and UDPR can be found here.
Additional Work
Equal to the regulatory function of the UDPR program, UDS is charged with providing strategic urban design expertise as part of key City policies, programs, and related projects. These assignments include support for Tacoma’s Neighborhood Planning Program, Comprehensive Planning, Current Planning, Office of Arts and Cultural Vitality, and Public Works Department. More specifically, this has included co-managing the Residential Infill Pilot Program, the ADU Accelerator, conceptual design support for streetscape and public space projects, redevelopment site strategies, and public art master planning.