The Price of Tacoma’s Railroad Growth
After a grueling two-year standoff, the city grants Jim Hill massive concessions in exchange for long-promised freight terminals and a new depot.
The depot question is settled. Jim Hill got what he wanted, but he had to give something in return—which Jim usually doesn't. The last battle in the long two-year war was fought last night, peace was declared, and the treaty ratified. The city gives much to the Jim Hill railways, including two acres of Railroad Avenue worth $76,000, several city streets, and alleyways to accommodate terminal expansions. In return, the companies promise to build a new $350,000 depot, spend $1,000,000 on track improvements, and construct new freight terminals on East Twenty-first street. While some council members like Giblett pushed for a promised bridge over the tideflats, the railroad successfully bluffed that the entire deal would be off if the bridge remained a requirement. Tacoma does not get the bridge, but the council ratified the agreement, signaling an end to the legislative deadlock.
“Jim Hill got what he wanted. He got all he wanted—as Jim usually does—but he had to give something in return.”
This 1909 deal highlights the perpetual tension between Tacoma's desire for infrastructure and the immense power of private capital to dictate terms. The 'tideflats' referred to remain a contested, industrial space today, as the city continues to navigate the legacy of rail dominance in its urban core.
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