Names: Karen and Dick
Occupations: Freelance Grant Writer; Commercial Banker
Employers: Self-employed; Umpqua Bank
Live: The Metropolitan Apartments
Where do you live and where do you work?
Karen: We are living at The Met. I am a small business owner who is able to walk to work at the Broadway Center for the Performing Arts.
Dick: We are temporarily living in The Metropolitan apartments as step in “down-sizing.” I work in downtown Tacoma, where I have worked for 20 of the last 25 years.
When did you move downtown?
Karen & Dick: August, 2013.
What’s in it for you?
Karen: We are literally minutes to work, have a terrific view from my apartment office, and we can walk to shows and restaurants.
Dick: We’re trying out “down-sizing.” It will allow us to determine if we like condo and/or urban living.
How do you usually get to work? How far is it?
Karen: My husband drops me on his way to work, but I can walk the 6 blocks when the weather is nice.
Dick: Straight down Broadway to 13th to Commerce. It is less than 2 miles and takes about 7 minutes.
How does it all add up? Do you save time or money?
Karen: Very positively… No yard maintenance, I take my car out 1 – 2 times per week, and our gas bills have dropped. Our utility bills have dropped as well.
Dick: I save about 40 minutes and some traffic aggravation per day in commute. Car expenses have dropped over $100 per month.
What’s the best part about living downtown?
Karen: Being so close to everything; watching a very active port.
Dick: The short commute, the ability to get places quickly in greater Tacoma, the proximity to the theater district, and the casual dining restaurants within walking distance.
What suggestions do you have for someone who may be thinking of moving downtown?
Karen: Do it.
Dick: Try it; you’ll most likely like it.