County secures $8M for Scoggins Valley Park visitor center and campground projects

Washington County officials announced a significant investment of $8 million for visitor center and campground projects at Scoggins Valley Park during the Budget Committee meeting on May 15, 2025. This funding, which does not draw from the general fund, marks a major step in enhancing local recreational facilities and is expected to boost tourism and community engagement.

The funding will support the construction of a new visitor center and campground, fulfilling a federal grant agreement with the Bureau of Reclamation. This agreement, established in 2019, mandates the county to complete these projects to avoid jeopardizing future federal funding. The county has been proactive in renegotiating terms to extend deadlines, ensuring compliance while managing budget constraints.

Currently, 52% of the park's budget is funded through various sources, including sales of parking passes and facility rentals. The county is actively working to increase revenue through enhanced recreation programs and partnerships with local organizations. Notably, the sheriff's office has been instrumental in maintaining safety at the park, particularly during high-traffic periods.

Projected revenues from the new campground are estimated at $1.2 million in the first year, increasing to $1.4 million by year four. The visitor center is expected to generate approximately $270,000 in its first year, with forecasts suggesting growth to $509,000 by year four. These figures highlight the potential for the projects to contribute significantly to the county's financial health.

Despite the positive outlook, the county is also facing challenges. Budget cuts have led to reductions in seasonal staff and recreation programming, prompting concerns about maintaining service levels. However, county officials are committed to finding alternative funding sources to mitigate these impacts.

As Washington County moves forward with these projects, the focus remains on enhancing community resources while ensuring fiscal responsibility. The ongoing revenue forecasts and strategic partnerships will be crucial in reducing dependency on the general fund and sustaining the park's operations in the long term.