Lacey Park Plans Aim to Revitalize Aging Play Areas

During a recent government meeting, officials discussed significant updates and future plans for local parks, focusing on maintenance, upgrades, and community engagement.

One of the key topics was the aging play structures at Hunterwood Park, described as the \"living room of Lacey.\" Officials noted that many of the park's play features, some over 20 years old, are deteriorating and lack modularity for easy repairs. The discussion highlighted the need for a strategic replacement plan, particularly as the park is central to the Lacey Midtown Innovation District, which aims to enhance the area with new amenities and attract future residents and businesses.

The meeting also addressed the broader implications of deferred maintenance across the city's parks, with an estimated $6.5 million needed for capital replacement projects. Officials emphasized the urgency of addressing these issues before a significant wave of replacements is required post-2030, as many parks built in the early 2000s will soon reach the end of their life cycles.

Lake Pointe Park was another focal point, where officials acknowledged complaints regarding the playability of its surfaces. Plans to resurface the courts with a new acrylic material were proposed, with an estimated cost of $40,000. The discussion included community feedback on the demand for more pickleball courts, reflecting the growing popularity of the sport.

Additionally, the meeting touched on the need for improvements at Thornberry Park, which features one of the oldest play structures in the area, and the ongoing maintenance of pathways at Wendler Park, which are crucial for community accessibility.

The Regional Athletic Complex was also highlighted, with plans for a $4.45 million investment in various projects, including an LED lighting conversion expected to save the city approximately $70,000 annually. This initiative aims to enhance the facility's sustainability while addressing the maintenance needs of heavily used playgrounds and athletic fields.

Overall, the meeting underscored the city's commitment to revitalizing its parks and recreational spaces, ensuring they meet the needs of current and future residents while fostering community engagement and economic development.