The Puyallup Tribe's new Longhouse officially opened Memorial Day weekend, marking the first purpose-built tribal gathering place in 171 years. The project, which began planning in 2020, will serve as a cultural center for traditional ceremonies and for hosting other tribes.

Alongside the Longhouse, 45 new housing units are under construction on tribal land, including 10 single-family homes. Council member James Rideout, who announced the milestone, described the development as only the beginning of addressing long-standing housing needs within the community.

Vocational Training Vision

Rideout outlined a broader vision for tribal self-reliance, including establishing a tribal construction company and integrating the TERO (Tribal Employment Rights Office) program to train tribal members in heavy equipment operation, carpentry, electrical work, and plumbing.

A new vocational training facility at Chief Leschi Schools is tentatively set to complete in 2028, part of a push toward greater sovereignty and independence from federal and state government programs.