The history of Federal Way plays a vital part in the identity of it's residents. If you have lived in the community for many years, the community history is a heartfelt reminder of days gone by. If you have just come to call the Federal Way home, it is a way to learn more about the new community you have joined. We would love nothing more than to be able to share the history and it's name with all who reside here. If you are interested in writing a brief history of the area within the community share it here! |
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HISTORY: CITY OF FEDERAL WAYWe are a dynamic and diverse community of over 86,530 residents who live and work among our waterfront, lakes, green space, and mountain views. We have a vibrant economy, plenty of housing options, and an abundance of recreational and leisure time activities.City leaders are committed to improving quality of life by delivering excellent city government services
Rapid retail and residential growth created significant changes in the community during the 1970's and 1980's. Desiring controlled, quality growth and community identity, Federal Way citizens organized to form what immediately became Washington's sixth largest city, incorporating in February of 1990.
The City is located 25 miles south of downtown Seattle and just 8 miles north of downtown Tacoma. Federal Way has 8 miles of Puget Sound waterfront and is in the southwestern corner of King County. Federal Way is connected to the region by three exits along Interstate 5, as well as access points to State Highways 18, 509, 161 and Pacific Highway/SR99. This provides easy access to Sea-Tac International Airport (12 miles) and the Ports of Seattle and Tacoma.
The climate, which is heavily influenced by its proximity to the Puget Sound, is relatively mild-temperate. The abundance of moist marine air keeps the temperature mild year round. The Federal Way area reaches an average high temperature of 75 degrees in July and an average low temperature of 33 degrees in January. Precipitation ranges from .71 inches in July to 5.7 inches in January.
More information is available on our City Profile or City History page.
