JBLM 2022 Growth Coordination Plan Discussion Scheduled

LAKEWOOD, WA —The South Sound Military and Community Partnership (SSMCP) has announced it will host a virtual open house later this month that will allow the organization to collect public input about the 2022 Growth Coordination Plan for Joint Base Lewis-McChord (JBLM) and the surrounding region.

The event will take place on Zoom from noon until 1 p.m. on Monday July 26. According to a release, the session is designed for civilians, service members, veterans and interested citizens.

The 2022 Growth Coordination Plan, according to the website, is designed to chart the path forward for a mutually-beneficial partnership that will improve quality of life for the local military community and all residents of the South Puget Sound region.

A press release said the plan will consider and address how regional conditions have changed between 2010 to the present, guide SSMCP priorities and improve communication between JBLM leadership and community leaders.

The final plan is due to be released in the spring of 2022 and be implemented by the SSMCP.

"JBLM and its surrounding communities are bound together. Strong, supportive communities enhance the lives of military personnel and families by providing healthy neighborhoods, schools, recreation and other services," said Bill Adamson, SSMCP's program manager. "In turn, JBLM strengthens the regional economy, spurring demand for retail, services and jobs."

The SSMCP said the growth plan will help preserve this mutually beneficial relationship and will involve partnerships with JBLM, the Nisqually Indian Tribe, local cities and counties, corporate and small business leaders, nonprofits and other stakeholders.

However, the SSMCP said, input from the public is vital to the growth plan's success.

The virtual open house will include background information, maps, posters and a public survey for stakeholder input. Event access information can be found on the project website.

By visiting the project website, interested parties also can view project updates, submit comments and sign up to receive details about future public participation opportunities.