Tacoma Port Bridge Reach Harbour Facility, Tacoma, Washington

Tacoma Port Bridge Reach is a harbour facility located at 1001 Port of Tacoma Rd in Tacoma, Washington, United States. Situated in Pierce County, this operational marine utility supports the Port of Tacoma, a major gateway for containerized cargo and bulk commodities in the Pacific Northwest region. The facility operates under the regulatory framework of the US EPA Vessel General Permit (VGP) and NPDES permits for shoreside activities. As a harbour, it handles diverse cargo types including containers, bulk goods, and liquid cargo, requiring robust stormwater and oil-water management systems to comply with environmental standards. Tacoma Port Bridge Reach plays a significant role in regional trade and economic activity, connecting the United States to global markets. Its proximity to sensitive coastal habitats in Puget Sound necessitates careful environmental management to mitigate impacts on local marine ecosystems.

The facility is located in Puget Sound, a biologically rich estuary with diverse marine life. Harbour operations involve cargo handling and vessel traffic, which can generate stormwater runoff and potential oil spills. Effective stormwater management and spill prevention measures are critical to protect water quality and local habitats.