Grassi's 'New' Neighbors Downtown

 It is worth noting that the charm and history of the building Grassi's occupies at its downtown storefront is enhanced & reinforced by the revision, remodeling, and construction occuring in this region of Tacoma's downtown core. Directly across Pacific Avenue from Grassi's is the new Justice building; next to it, the revitalized Union Station with its brilliant dome; and one building further south, the Washington State History Museum's new structure. The new home of the Tacoma Art Museum will also be situated in this line-up of impressive new and old structures, as well as Tacoma's new Convention Center.

Across from the historical museum is the University of Washington Bookstore, and rising all around this point, new and remodeled buildings comprising the growing campus of the University of Washington, Tacoma. In a recent issue of the Tacoma News Tribune (Sept. 1st, 1999), a column detailed the construction of a $35 million highrise superstructure in this same vicinity,destined to become the home of Columbia Bank. From the looks of things, Grassi's Flowers & Gifts and Garden Cafe is in good company.