About the Project

A Comprehensive Plan is a long-term guide for parks and recreation. It documents the existing park and recreation system, identifies community needs and priorities, establishes goals, and helps guide future decisions about parks, facilities, programs, improvements, and investments. 

The plan brings together information about existing parks and facilities, system data and analysis, community and stakeholder input, and identified needs and opportunities. For this update, community input included outreach, stakeholder conversations, the Steering Committee, and the 2026 Community Survey.

The Comprehensive Plan helps EMPD establish priorities and plan for future investments over time. It also helps the District meet Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office planning requirements and maintain eligibility for certain state recreation grant funding opportunities. 

• Acquisition of property near 27th Street, adjacent to the Apple Capital Loop Trail corridor 
• Continued investment in recreation facilities and community amenities
• Improvements that support future park, trail, and recreation opportunities

•  $3.5 million facility modernization completed in 2019
• Window replacements and new entryway
• HVAC and mechanical room upgrades
• Locker room upgrades
• UV water treatment improvements
• Asphalt parking and pathway repairs
• Concrete sidewalk replacement
• Stormwater drainage improvements on the south side of the facility

• Upgraded benches and water fountains
• Replaced and repaved portions of pathways
• Irrigation system improvements
• Installation of the Fitness Court

•  New siding and exterior improvements
• New windows and double-door entry improvements
• Flooring, electrical, and lighting upgrades
• Conversion of space into an instructional kitchen and classroom

• New benches and picnic tables in shaded areas
• Planting of the next generation of shade trees

• Installation of additional benches and site amenities