Council accepts Parks, Arts & Recreation chapter of Olympia 2045 after broad public input

The Olympia City Council voted to accept the Parks, Arts & Recreation chapter of the Olympia 2045 comprehensive plan following presentations from interim Parks, Arts & Recreation Director Silvana Nehauser and staff.

Nehauser reviewed accomplishments since the last plan update, including planning projects (aquatic feasibility study, Yelm Highway Community Park, West Bay Park master plan), program expansions, and land acquisitions she said total 478 acres since the last update. She noted investments in ADA accessibility improvements (cited as $1,400,000 between 2018 and 2025) and $5.25 million dedicated toward major maintenance. Nehauser also said the city secured the armory for a future arts center and launched a staffed park ranger program.

Public input and advisory bodies shaped the chapter, Nehauser said; the parks plan emphasizes access and inclusivity, multimodal connections, green spaces near residences, and climate adaptation. She noted that during the chapter update, staff were directed to move climate goals and policies into a standalone climate chapter and that park staff worked closely with the climate team.

Council members praised the chapter. Council Member Gilman highlighted the chapter’s focus on justice and future planning for an aging population; Mayor Pro Tem Nguyen and Council Member Vanderpool commended outreach and accessibility goals.

Council Member Gilman moved to accept the Parks, Arts & Recreation chapter; the motion passed by voice vote. Nehauser told the council the acceptance is for the chapter only; full plan acceptance will come later this year.