The News Tribune, Tacoma, Wash., Art Popham Column.(Originated from The News Tribune, Tacoma, Wash.)

an apt description of the new breed of property owners on Tacoma's Sixth Avenue.

"Young and restless -- that really does describe them pretty well," said Whitney Whiton, City of Tacoma economic development specialist.

"They're mostly in their 20s and 30s. They're buying property along Sixth Avenue, but they're not just holding it. They're improving it and coming to the city for help to redo facades and upstairs for housing. They're putting lots of energy into their buildings and not stopping at one."

Tony Valenzuela is a prime example. The 39-year-old started working with property in Seattle at age 18. He's spent the past 15 years in Tacoma and now owns …