About EMPD

Adult helping child on playground climbing equipment under sunny weather.

Eastmont Metropolitan Park District

Eastmont Metropolitan Park District (EMPD) is the local parks and recreation district serving the greater Eastmont area. Our mission is to enrich quality of life by providing recreational and educational facilities, activities, programs, and experiences that support a healthy, active, and connected community.

EMPD owns and maintains parks, recreation facilities, trails, and community spaces while offering programs, events, and activities for residents of all ages. From neighborhood parks and community gathering spaces to recreation programs, sports, and aquatic facilities, EMPD provides opportunities for recreation throughout the community.

EMPD Website

Map showing Eastmont Metro Parks District boundary around East Wenatchee and Rock Island.

Who Does EMPD Serve?

EMPD serves residents throughout the Eastmont area, including the City of East Wenatchee, portions of Douglas County, and parts of Rock Island. The District's service area is approximately the size and shape of the Eastmont School District boundary.

While EMPD facilities are located throughout the district, many parks, trails, programs, and recreation opportunities are used by residents from across the greater Wenatchee Valley.

VIEW MAP

Aerial view of a soccer match on a small field with spectators.

District Facilities and Properties

EMPD currently owns and manages:

Eastmont Community Park
Kenroy Park
Tedford Park
Pangborn-Herndon Memorial Park
Cherry Hill Park
Eastmont Community Center
Eastmont Aquatic Center
Property along the 27th Street corridor
Additional recreation assets and community facilities throughout the district

EMPD also partners with other agencies to help maintain and support portions of the Apple Capital Loop Trail.

EMPD Locations

What Does EMPD Do?

EMPD provides a wide variety of services and recreation opportunities that support residents throughout the year.

These services include:

Park and facility maintenance
Recreation and educational programs
Youth camps and activities
Sports leagues and recreation opportunities
Aquatic programs and swimming lessons
Community events and special activities
Trail and open space stewardship
Planning for future recreation needs and improvements

EMPD also works closely with schools, local governments, community organizations, and regional partners to expand recreation opportunities and improve community amenities.

EMPD Programs & Activities

How EMPD Operates and Is Funded

EMPD is a Metropolitan Park District, a special purpose local government created to provide parks and recreation services for the community.

The District is governed by an elected Board of Commissioners and supported by professional staff who oversee park operations, recreation programs, facility maintenance, planning efforts, and community services.

Funding comes from several sources, including:

Local property taxes
Program and activity fees
Facility rentals
Grants
Partnerships
Donations

These resources help support:

Park maintenance
Recreation programs
Facility operations
Community improvements
Long-term planning and investments

2020-2026 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN

A Brief History of EMPD

The history of parks and recreation in the Eastmont area spans more than 70 years.

The foundation of today's park system began in 1955 with the creation of Douglas County Parks. Over the following decades, community leaders, volunteers, residents, and local partners helped establish many of the parks and facilities that continue to serve the community today, including Tedford Park, Kenroy Park, Eastmont Community Park, and the Eastmont Aquatic Center.

In 2004, voters approved the formation of the Eastmont Metropolitan Parks District, creating the independent park district that serves the community today. Since then, EMPD has continued to invest in parks, recreation facilities, programs, and community amenities while expanding recreation opportunities for residents of all ages.

Recent accomplishments include improvements to Eastmont Community Park, renovations to the Eastmont Aquatic Center, creation of the Eastmont Community Center, acquisition of Cherry Hill Park, expansion of trail connections, installation of the Fitness Court, and numerous facility upgrades throughout the district.