$21 Million In Levy-Funded Grants Head To King County Park Projects

KING COUNTY, WA — Dozens of community-led projects will receive funding from new grants paid for by the King County Parks Levy, which voters approved in 2019. King County Executive Dow Constantine announced $21 million in funding for 40 projects Wednesday, which he said aims to improve trail systems, protect green space, develop new parks and renovate aquatic and community centers across the region.

"The people of King County sent a clear message when they overwhelmingly approved the Parks Levy," Constantine said in a statement. "They want us to connect trails, build parks, revitalize pools, and protect wilderness — and that's exactly what we are doing, building a greener King County and preserving the things that make this community special."

Constantine's office said the levy is projected to create $110 million in funding for grants over six years. The $21 million included in the latest round is divided between:

• Aquatic Facilities: $13 million
• Parks Capital and Open Space: $9.5 million
• Open Space and River Corridors: $5 million
• Targeted Equity: $3.8 million

A new multi-use trail, running 5.6 miles from North Bend to Snoqualmie Point Park is among the 40 projects that received approval for grant funding, along with the planned development of a new teen and senior center in Tukwila. Renton received nearly $500,000 to improve amenities at Gene Coulon Memorial Beach Park, which will also bring waterfront access in line with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Constantine said Enumclaw was awarded more than $1.2 million to make upgrades at its aquatic center.

Community groups interested in applying for grant funding in 2023 can keep up to date by joining the county's mailing list.