Pierce County is the second most populous county in Washington State and covers a diverse area stretching from the banks of the Puget Sound to the peak of Mount Rainier. The county contains one of the busiest container ports in the US, a thriving agricultural and livestock base, as well as a number of military posts--including Fort Lewis, the nation's third largest Army base. The Sixth District's footprint within Pierce County includes Tacoma, Gig Harbor, the Key Peninsula and part of Lakewood. Tacoma is the third largest city in the state and features a diverse and growing economy, quality institutes of higher education, and a thriving cultural district with a diverse arts, entertainment and museum scene.
 Looking north towards downtown Tacoma
Throughout his career, Norm has worked with Pierce County elected and community leaders to sustain and improve the area’s vibrant and healthy neighborhoods, to restore Tacoma’s downtown core, to support the expansion of the University of Washington\Tacoma and to preserve Fort Lewis and McChord Air Force Base as vital national security assets. In addition, he is in a pivotal role in Congress to help fund improvements at Mount Rainier National Park, protect Puget Sound and continue the cleanup of the Thea Foss and Hylebos waterways along Commencement Bay.
Preserving Our Wilderness
In late 2006 and early 2007 he fought for emergency funds to repair the substantial damage to Mount. Rainier National Park, which threatened the park opening for the 2007 seasons. Working with various federal agencies he was able to secure more than $30 million to repair damages to roads, trails, structures, and culverts.
Improving Transportation
Norm is also working hard on the serious transportation challenges that confront the entire Puget Sound region. He has secured federal funding for the Sounder commuter rail connection from Tacoma-to-Seattle as well as the larger Sound Transit program that is critical to the future economy of Pierce County and the entire Puget Sound region.
Strengthening Our Military and Protecting Our Veterans
As a member of the House Military Construction/VA Appropriations Subcommittee, Norm has also secured critical funds needed to accommodate the three Stryker Brigades at Fort Lewis and for the facilities needed to house the Air Force’s C-17 airlifters at McChord Air Force Base. In just the past two years, more than $500 million in construction projects at the two Pierce County bases has been approved by Congress, creating local jobs and keeping the posts modern and efficient.
As a strong advocate for Veterans programs and benefits in Congress, Norm is currently working to oppose Bush Administration cuts in the VA budget, to improve the quality of care at American Lake Veterans Medical Center and for a new Veterans Home at American Lake. Washington ranks 12th nationwide with more than 670,000 veterans living in the State.
 Map of Pierce County. Tacoma is pictured in red, which Norm represents.
Related Items
Home >> The 6th District >> Pierce County
|
