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Parks department reports busy season: staff recognition, playgrounds and parking projects under way
Summary
Richland's recreation and parks staff reported on awards, upcoming events, playground projects and a Columbia Playfield parking-lot bid heading to City Council; staff also flagged increased park use, trash issues and phased seasonal staffing increases.
During the May 14 meeting, Richland Parks and Recreation staff updated the commission on recreation programming, staffing recognitions and several park projects.
Julie Piper, recreation supervisor, said staff attended the Washington Recreation and Park Association conference and announced that Tri Cities will host the WRPA conference in 2028. Piper recognized recreation supervisor Dane Marlin for earning the Association of Aquatic Professionals (AQP) credential, noting it signifies verified experience and training for aquatic management.
Piper highlighted seasonal sports (volleyball and flag football) and upcoming events including Live at 5 beginning May 28, Tri City Great Strides (May 30) and the La Fiera Festival (May 31). She said the community center activity guide is published online and reminded the public the community center will be closed on Memorial Day.
Parks director Waite reported that the West Village playground design was approved by City Council and equipment orders are being placed, with construction expected to finish by late fall if schedules hold. Columbia Playfield parking-lot bids opened recently and the bid award will go to Council on June 2; staff said construction could begin in June or July but might extend into the start of school depending on contingencies. Director Waite also said Columbia Playfield is planned for a larger playground replacement (construction in 2027) to replace pea-gravel surfacing, and that tennis-court construction and other maintenance projects continue.
Council liaison Holden raised resident reports of police calls and trash at Leslie Groves Park and suggested adding paddleboard signage to shift launches to an underutilized Newcomer parking area. Director Waite acknowledged increased park usage after recent events, noted visible windstorm damage in multiple parks (notably Jefferson Park) and said staff are phasing in additional seasonal employees to improve weekend coverage and cleanup.
Why it matters: planned playground and parking improvements, staffing changes and event activity will affect park access, facility availability and near-term construction impacts for residents.
The commission adjourned to a scheduled workshop at approximately 6:54 p.m.
