Small business and commercial property owners required to make unanticipated, costly upgrades to structures to meet the fire and building codes now have some help available. In an effort to assist with fire and life safety requirements, Tacoma City Council and the Tacoma Community Redevelopment Authority have established a Fire Safety Loan Program (FSLP). The FSLP loan is available to any business owner or property owner within Tacoma city limits to upgrade an existing retail, office or mixed-use building to adhere to current fire safety codes. Residential units are not eligible under this program. Funds can be used for fire detection systems; fire suppression systems; improving or adding means of egress; fire-related mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems; kitchen hoods; and other fire and life safety code requirements. For more information about FSLP criteria, terms and conditions, contact Genal Gavaldon with Community and Economic Development at (253) 591-5213 or by email at g.gavaldon@cityoftacoma.org .