By Marianne Lincoln

On Monday, August 25, Pierce Transit held a celebratory ribbon ‘bus’ting for the newest Transit Center in Pierce County. It is located at 20712 Mountain Hwy E, Spanaway, next to the former feed store.

The Spanaway Transit Center’s official first day is August 31, 2025. It features parking and bus turn around, and a break room for transit drivers to rest and relieve themselves. That break room will also be available to Emergency Services personnel working in the area.

What it doesn’t have is rest rooms for riders. Walmart, McDonald’s, Taco Bell, Jack in the Box, Arby’s and other fast-food establishments are down the road a few blocks, not right next door. So, if you are a rider, plan ahead for that.

Dignitaries at the opening event included Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland, Lakewood Mayor Jason Whalen, who is chair of the Pierce Transit Board, State Rep. Mari Leavitt, and Rosie Ayala from the Pierce County Council, who represents Tacoma. The CEO of Pierce Transit, Mike Griffus, also spoke.

The new facility was pristine, sparkly clean for the opening, but the one thing they didn’t think through was the landscaping. The fresh mulch and Tagro was effervescently present for everyone to experience. It was not particularly pleasing and mentioned in a few speeches also. Only time will make that go away.

There is an opportunity here for developers. Please. Build something next-door that customers can use for coffee, snacks and a chance to use a restroom as well. Having been a Transit rider myself, I really appreciate the businesses that accommodate us when Pierce Transit does not.

Here are a few photos from the event. The umbrellas were for the sun. It was a hot day and they were appreciated. Happy riding!