Pierce County, Washington

Mt. Rainier, 1932

Tacoma skyline and I-705 from the East 34th Street Bridge

Mount Rainier Hazard Map-en

Logo of Pierce County, Washington

I-5

I-705

Pierce County, Washington is a county located in the U.S. state of Washington. As of the 2020 United States Census, the population was 904,980, making it the second-most populous county in Washington, behind King County. The county seat is Tacoma, which is also the largest city in the county. Pierce County is part of the Seattle metropolitan area and contains some of the region's most significant natural and recreational areas, including Mount Rainier National Park, which is a major landmark and tourist attraction.

History

Pierce County was officially established on December 22, 1852, from a portion of Thurston County and was named after U.S. President Franklin Pierce. The area has a rich history, with indigenous peoples inhabiting the region for thousands of years before European exploration and settlement. The growth of Pierce County accelerated with the completion of the Northern Pacific Railroad in the late 19th century, facilitating the development of Tacoma as a major port city and the economic hub of the county.

Geography

Covering an area of 1,806 square miles, Pierce County is characterized by its diverse landscapes, ranging from the shores of Puget Sound to the glaciated peak of Mount Rainier, the highest mountain in the state of Washington. The county's geography includes vast forests, rivers, agricultural lands, and urban areas. The Puyallup River and the Carbon River are among the significant waterways that flow through the county.

Demographics

Pierce County is a diverse region with a mix of urban, suburban, and rural communities. The demographic composition of the county has evolved over the years, reflecting broader national trends of immigration and urbanization. The economy of Pierce County is diverse, with significant sectors including healthcare, education, military, and logistics, owing to its strategic location and the presence of major facilities like Joint Base Lewis-McChord.

Government and Politics

Pierce County operates under a home rule charter adopted in 1981, which established a county executive and a seven-member county council. The county executive is elected at large and is responsible for the executive administration of the county. The Pierce County Council is the legislative body, and its members are elected from seven districts within the county. Politically, Pierce County has been known for its competitive elections, with a mix of urban areas leaning towards the Democratic Party and rural regions more supportive of the Republican Party.

Education and Culture

The county is home to several institutions of higher education, including the University of Washington Tacoma, Pacific Lutheran University, and University of Puget Sound. Pierce County's cultural scene is vibrant, with numerous museums, galleries, theaters, and music venues, particularly in Tacoma. The Tacoma Dome is a notable venue for large concerts and events.

Recreation

Pierce County offers a wide range of recreational opportunities, from hiking and skiing in Mount Rainier National Park to boating and fishing in Puget Sound. The county's parks and recreation department manages numerous parks, trails, and natural areas, providing residents and visitors with access to the outdoors and recreational activities.