Ward Lake Parcel Acquired!

On May 24, 2007, the City of Olympia Parks, Arts & Recreation Department purchased a 10-acre parcel located on Ward Lake, in Olympia’s Southeast Urban Growth Area. This site has 351 feet of shoreline on the lake. The property is closed to public use until a public swim beach and associated support facilities are developed. The department will seek fund to develop the park. The park will not be open until funding is secured for development, maintenance and operation.

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4-Acre Parcel Purchased!
On August 17, 2006, the City of Olympia Parks, Arts & Recreation Department purchased a four-acre parcel located at 3102 8th Ave. NE in Thurston County in Olympia’s Northeast Urban Growth Area. In a number of years, this open field will be developed into a neighborhood park to serve the needs of residents in Northeast Olympia.
    Site information (PDF)

First Park Site Acquired!
On September 21, 2005, the City of Olympia Parks, Arts and Recreation Department purchased a four-acre parcel located at 1445 Evergreen Park Dr. SW.  
     Site Information (PDF)
     Site Map (PDF)
 
West Bay Park: Cheers!  In January 2006, the City Council approved purchase of a 10-acre waterfront park site along West Bay Drive.  Interim use planning for the site is underway.  More information
 
Community Park and Neighborhood Park Sites: All nine neighborhood park sites and both community park sites have been identified. Staff utilized geographic information systems (computer mapping), aerial photography, and site visits to select the best available park sites. Sites were selected based upon location within under-served areas of Olympia, size, and suitability for park development (i.e. no steep slopes or wetlands).

The City has contacted property owners of all desired park sites to begin exploring purchasing opportunities.

Research is being conducted on potential park sites and the City is beginning discussion with some property owners. The Parks, Arts & Recreation Department will announce final acquisitions as sites are purchased.

Legacy for the Future: With these projects, Olympia residents will have increased opportunities to:

• Join their friends and neighbors at parks and playfields;
• Experience open space and natural settings; and
• Walk within their neighborhoods, and to neighborhood schools and parks.