SUMNER – City of Sumner received a VISION 2050 Award from the Puget Sound Regional Council for the White River Restoration Projects.
The White River Restoration Projects represent outstanding regional collaboration that transforms the environment, enhances community resilience and protects vital economic resources in Sumner and across Pierce County. The White River Restoration Projects are four companion projects providing critical flood protection, including:
- Construction of a new bridge
- Restoration of over 200 acres of habitat
- Levee and setback update
- Improvements to transportation routes
At the heart of the White River Restoration Project is the Dialogue Group, a partnership formed in 2016 among the City of Sumner, Pierce County, the Muckleshoot Indian Tribe and the Puyallup Tribe of Indians. These jurisdictions began with vastly different needs and a history of conflict surrounding the White River. However, through a new approach of facilitated conversations, listening and shared planning, the Dialogue Group designed the four restoration projects.
The greater Sumner area is home to many businesses that provide over 18,000 jobs and remain vulnerable to river flooding. This project will help prevent economic losses in the City of Sumner and mitigate potential ripple effects throughout the region and beyond.
Mayor Kathy Hayden, City of Sumner
“We’re so proud of this project. It does amazing things for flood protection and environmental enhancement. Better still, it sets a new precedent for how we work together with our neighboring jurisdictions from the start. That is going to be the true legacy.”
Josh Brown, Executive Director of Puget Sound Regional Council
"The White River Restoration Projects demonstrate the power of inclusive planning and visionary collaboration. By putting people, the environment and community needs at the center, this group created a win for the entire region and a model that others are already looking to replicate."
The VISION 2050 Awards celebrate progress to enhance the region’s communities and natural environment while advancing equity and opportunity for all. The awards recognize innovative work in the region to create a better future for central Puget Sound.
The award was presented at Sumner City Hall on September 15.
VISION 2050 is the region’s plan for growth. By 2050, the region's population will reach 5.8 million people. The region’s cities, counties, Tribes, ports, agencies, businesses, and communities have worked together to develop VISION 2050 to prepare for this growth and serve as a guide for sustaining a healthy environment, thriving communities and a strong economy.
