Pierce County's 2024 Comprehensive Plan Periodic Update, effective February 15, 2025, culminates three years of revisions and numerous community inputs, significantly impacting future development within the county. Adopted with 44 amendments by the Pierce County Council on December 3, 2024, the plan sets revised parameters for urban and rural growth. A notable development-related change is the 1,541-acre reduction in the Urban Growth Area (UGA) boundary, achieved through 19 amendments. These areas, now designated for rural land use and zoning, will see a shift away from potential urban development, prioritizing the conservation of open space, farms, and forests. The finalized UGA boundary directly dictates where future urban-scale development can occur.

The Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber (TPCC)'s 2025 Pierce County Economic Index (PCEI) Report, authored by economist Dr. Neal Johnson, reveals a nuanced economic landscape for Pierce County, with particular emphasis on the challenges confronting the construction sector. While the overall forecast anticipates moderate economic growth of 1.6%, the report highlights significant headwinds for construction, primarily stemming from persistent high mortgage rates. Andrea Reay, President & CEO of TPCC, acknowledges these difficulties, stating that while progress is evident in areas like personal income and job creation, the struggles within the housing market underscore the lingering impact of broader economic conditions. The report serves as a critical tool for members to navigate the year ahead, particularly those in or reliant on the construction industry, providing insights needed to foster resilience amidst these specific challenges.