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Local rugby clubs urge upgrades to Ron Regis Park, cite safety and youth-mentorship benefits
Summary
Multiple speakers and coaches asked the council to improve Ron Regis Park with lighting and turf so youth and adaptive teams can practice and host games; advocates said rugby provides mentorship, employment pathways and mental-health support.
Several community members told the council Ron Regis Park lacks usable lights and quality turf, limiting youth sports and evening practices.
"This sport and its culture and community have literally saved people's lives," said Kevin Flynn (speaker 5), a mentor and rugby coach, describing rugby's role in mentorship, veteran support and youth opportunities. Jonathan Brooks (speaker 3) said the clubs represent about 200 players across ages and that the absence of lights forces teams to travel out of Renton for games and practices.
Coaches and volunteers noted that lighting a second pitch and improving turf would expand access for girls and wheelchair rugby teams and provide economic benefits when visiting teams spend locally. Shannon Nielsen (speaker 17) described long-term stewardship of Ron Regis and asked for lights so programs can operate year-round. Advocates asked the council to consider Ron Regis upgrades alongside the Renton High project and broader parks planning.
No formal council action on Ron Regis improvements was recorded at this meeting; transportation and parks staff were referenced as points of contact for next steps.
