(Tacoma, Wa) July 15, 2026 — Centerforce has acquired the historic Bone Dry Shoe Building at 2111 Pacific Avenue in downtown Tacoma for $2,495,000, establishing a permanent headquarters for the growing nonprofit while preserving one of Tacoma's most recognizable historic office buildings. Lee & Associates brokers John Bauder and Harrison Laird represented the seller in the transaction.

Originally constructed in 1917 for the Bone Dry Shoe Manufacturing Company, the building has been a fixture of Tacoma's industrial history for more than a century. Designed to manufacture rugged footwear for loggers, laborers and outdoor workers throughout the Pacific Northwest, the structure still showcases its original heavy timber framing, exposed concrete walls and hardwood floors.

In 2000, McGranahan Architects completed an award-winning rehabilitation of the property, transforming it into modern office space while preserving its historic character. Following approximately 25 years as the firm's headquarters, the building now begins its next chapter with Centerforce.

Centerforce plans to occupy a portion of the building as its corporate headquarters while continuing to lease the remaining office space, ensuring the landmark remains an active part of downtown Tacoma's business community.

"Representing the owners in the sale of the Bone Dry Shoe Building has been especially meaningful because of the history behind both the property and the people who have called it home," said John Bauder, Principal at Lee & Associates. "The ownership team demonstrated tremendous care in preserving this iconic building over the years, and we're excited to see Centerforce continue that legacy. It's rewarding to know this historic property will remain vibrant while serving both Centerforce and other businesses for years to come."

Mark Mattke, Executive Director of Centerforce, said the acquisition represents an important milestone for the organization.

"Owning our own headquarters is an investment in our mission and in the people we serve every day. This new location in downtown Tacoma will support our long-term growth while allowing us to expand the services and opportunities we provide throughout our community. We're honored to become the next stewards of such an important piece of Tacoma's history."

According to Harrison Laird, the transaction also reflects an ongoing trend in the South Sound commercial real estate market.

"We're continuing to see strong demand from owner-users who have ever-changing office space needs and recognize today's buying opportunities. Owner-user office sales have significantly outpaced traditional office investment sales throughout the South Sound over the past several years, as businesses and nonprofits alike choose to invest in their own facilities rather than lease. Well-located, character-rich buildings like the Bone Dry Shoe Building remain especially attractive to organizations looking for a long-term home."

Ryan Kershaw and Drew Frame of Kidder Mathews represented Centerforce in the acquisition.

ABOUT LEE & ASSOCIATES

Lee & Associates offers an array of real estate services tailored to meet the needs of the company’s clients, including commercial real estate brokerage, integrated services, and construction services. Established in 1979, Lee & Associates is now an international firm with offices throughout the United States and Canada. Our professionals regularly collaborate to make sure they are providing their clients with the most advanced, up-to-date market technology and information. For the latest news from Lee & Associates, visit lee-associates.com or follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, and Link, our company blog.

ABOUT CENTERFORCE

Centerforce is a Tacoma-based nonprofit organization dedicated to helping individuals overcome barriers and build stronger, more independent lives through comprehensive support services, workforce development and community partnerships. By creating pathways to stability, employment and long-term success, Centerforce serves individuals and families throughout the South Sound while strengthening the communities in which they live and work.