The City's Vision

This parcel is part of the City’s vision to redevelop the Marina, expand the waterfront esplanade and connect the City’s existing natural areas to its downtown.

A key component of this vision is the Marina Steps, a series of stairs that will connect the Marina with downtown and provide a unique gathering space for locals and tourists alike. 

Just south of the steps the City plans to build a structure to create a more permanent space for the farmers market and serve as dry storage for boats. 

Both the Steps and the buildings will incorporate many environmental features, including green stormwater treatment to enhance water quality entering the Puget Sound.

The City is working with Skylab Architecture to produce a preliminary design for the Marina Steps, and has the capacity to fund the project by issuing bonds. 

Once a developer is selected, the City will work with them to determine the most efficient way to construct the Marina Steps along with the private development parcels. We are open to working with a developer who will build the Marina Steps and the other  development parcels. 

Des Moines is also making additional improvements to the adjacent areas of Beach Park and Overlook Park above the Marina, and we foresee a pedestrian-friendly environment that connects the natural and built areas surrounding the Marina. 

Des Moines wants to become one of the premier boating destinations in the Puget Sound, and the redevelopment of the Marina will extend to the waterside as well. Here, we will upgrade and expand our facilities, with many more options for day-use and long-term boaters.

We’re also looking into the potential for passenger ferry service from the Des Moines Marina to Tacoma, Seattle and other Puget Sound locales.

The City is seeking partners who share in its vision to transform the Marina into a walkable, vibrant, mixed-use area that helps support the environmental sustainability of the local and regional area.