HomeMy WebLinkAbout2022-012 - Res. Adopting the 2022-2027 Mason County Parks, Recreation, Open Space, and Trails (PROST) Plan RESOLUTION NO. 1011-0Q2
A RESOLUTION ADOPTING THE 2022-2027 MASON COUNTY PARKS, RECREATION, OPEN
SPACE, TRAILS PLAN (PROST)
WHEREAS, the Mason County Parks and Trails Comprehensive Plan was originally adopted in
2006 and updated in 2013, and
WHEREAS, Mason County entered into a services contract with RWD Landscape Architects in
2021 to update the Mason County Parks and Trails Comprehensive Plan also known as the
Mason County Parks, Recreation, Open Space, Trails Plan (PROST), and
WHEREAS, the Parks &Trails Advisory Board met several times in 2021 to assist Mason County
with the update of the PROST and public comment was provided, and
WHEREAS, the PROST has been updated and includes a Mission Statement, Introduction,
County Profile, Goals and Objectives, Citizen Involvement, Park Inventory, Demand and Needs
Analysis, Recommendations and a Funding — Capital Improvement Plan , and
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED by the Board of Mason County Commissioners to adopt the
Mason County Parks, Recreation, Open Space, Trails Plan (PROST), and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, the Mason County Recreation, Open Space, Trails Plan shall be
utilized to establish partnerships with public and private organizations to develop and acquire
parks, trails, bikeways and water trails and to establish funding sources for the development
and maintenance of parks and trails in Mason County in the future.
Signed this 151h day of February 2022.
BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
MASON COUNTY, WASHINGTON
ATTEST:
Kevin Shutty, C it
McKenzie Smi h, Clerk of the Board
APPROVED AS TO FORM: Sharon Trask, Commissioner
Tft Whi e ead, Chief DPA Randy Neather in, Commissioner
C: Planning
Parks Department
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MASON COUNTY
Part?s, Recreation, Open Space and Trails Plan
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Project Information
Project: Mason County Parks, Recreation,
Open Space and Trails (PROST)
Plan
Prepared for: Mason County Parks and Trails
Department
Reviewing Agency 1
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Jurisdiction: Mason County `
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SCJ Alliance .••
Contact: Dan Penrose, AICP
Planning Lead, SCJ Alliance
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Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan
MISSION STATEMENT
Provide a diverse system of safe, attractive,
and professionally maintained parks, facilities,
trails and recreation opportunities designed to
enhance the quality of life for all who reside in
and visit Mason County.
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
Mason County greatly appreciates the efforts of
community members and advisory members, county
staff, and other county leaders who contributed to
this planning effort. Your interest and support will
continue to foster the success of our system of parks,
recreation, open space and trails for years to come.
MASON COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
Kevin Shutty, Chair
Sharon Trask, Vice-Chair
Randy Neatherlin
PARKS AND TRAILS ADVISORY BOARD
Andrew Kinney
Jeanne Robinson
Mendy Harlow
Mike DiMatteo
MASON COUNTY STAFF
Mark Neary—County Administrator
Diane Zoren—Central Services Manager
Carl Olson— Parks Maintenance
Anne Voice— Program Support Technician
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan ii
Table of Contents
1. Introduction................................................................................................1
2. Goals and Objectives..............................................................................5
3. Public Involvement..................................................................................9
4. Inventory...................................................................................................16
5. Demand and Needs Analysis..............................................................26
6. Recommendations and Prioritization.............................................44
7. Funding and Capital Improvement Plan......................................... 51
Appendices.....................................................................................................62
A- Facility Inventory............................................................................................................62
B- Proposed Parks and Trails Facilities.........................................................................93
C- Public Participation Plan..............................................................................................98
D- Public Engagement—Survey Responses................................................................102
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan iii
law
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INTR .- J 1T 14 0 ,V
Chapter
,v
�.1
Healthier lifestyles through physical activity are • Articulate environmental values through
becoming an important component of people's ecologically responsible management and
lives. In recent decades, programs such as environmental education programs;
the Healthy People Initiative through the U.S. • Promote individual and community wellness
Department of Health and Human Services have that enhances the quality of life for all citizens;
placed a strong emphasis on increasing physical . Utilize holistic approaches to promote cultural
activity. These programs suggest regular physical understanding, economic development,
activity and the reduction of sedentary activities family public health and safety, by working
to promote health, psychological well being, and a in coalitions and partnerships with allied
healthy body weight. organizations; and
The adult obesity rate in Mason County is 33% • Facilitate and promote the development of
compared to the State's 27%, and Mason County grassroots, self-help initiatives in communities
is ranked 20th out of Washington's 39 counties across the country.
with regard to health outcomes. As Americans Planning for parks and recreation also addresses the
increase their level of physical activity, there is in County's need for capital investments in public lands
turn an increased demand for healthier leisure-time
activities, including parks and outdoor recreation. and recreation resources, contributes to individual
As more and more people participate in outdoor and social development including a healthy,
activities, the increased pressure on existing active populace, improves the health and well-
parks and recreational facilities may endanger being of children, youth and families, and ensures
stewardship and protection for our County's natural
the environmental qualities that residents and
nonresidents are attracted to in the first place. resources.
Consequently, there is a need to provide for
increasing recreational demand while at the same There is a need to provide for increasing
time improving quality of life, enhancing property recreational demand while at the some time
values and protecting natural resources for future improving quality o life,e enhancingproperty
generations. p g 9 y f p pert
Y
values and protecting natural resources for
The National Park and Recreation Association future generations.
(NPRA) actively promotes parks and recreation to
enhance the quality of life for all people. In line with
the values of NPRA, Mason County believes that
parks and recreation organizations can:
• Enhance human potential by providing facilities,
services and programs that meet the emotional,
social and physical needs of communities;
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Chapter 1 I Introduction 1
1.1 Purpose of the Plan The efforts and dedication of many people
should be recognized in the development of
The Mason County Parks, Recreation, Open this plan. Some of these individuals are listed as
Space and Trails Plan (referred to as the PROST acknowledgements and includes staff, citizens,
Plan) will serve as a guide in the development of appointed and elected participants in the planning
parks and outdoor recreation and will enable the process.
County to satisfy the planning requirements of the
Growth Management Act (GMA) (RCW 36.70A.020). Intent
Local agencies, such as Mason County, are required
to update their Parks and Recreation Comprehensive This PROST Plan is the result of hours of staff and
Plans every six years. volunteer time in preparation, drafting, working with
the public, tabulating survey results and guiding
The GMA establishes a number of requirements the plan through the formal adoption process. We
for local comprehensive planning. It identifies believe that the community has provided invaluable
specific goals that the comprehensive plans are to information and insight for park planning in Mason
achieve, prescribes the elements each plan is to County. This document is now the primary parks
contain, establishes requirements for regulations, planning tool for Mason County. It establishes
mandates the "urban growth area," and requires specific policies and strategies for all County parks
local governments to demonstrate how they will pay related to land acquisition, facility and program
for the improvements and facilities called for in their development, funding, and management. This plan
plans. The act requires extensive public participation is intended to:
in the planning process.
• Articulate the County's Vision and Mission
This plan will also provide a document that can be Statement for Mason County parks, facilities,
used to solicit a variety of grant sources, including trails and outdoor recreation;
the Recreation and Conservation Office (RCO) with . Provide an inventory of all parks within the
grant categories under the Washington Wildlife and County;
Recreation Program account (WWRP), the Boating
Facilities Program (BFP), The Non-Highway and Off ' Analyze recreational trends in Mason County
Road Vehicle Program (NOVA) and the federal Land as acquired through the Mason County Parks
and Water Conservation Funding (LWCF) through questionnaire and community workshops;
the Department of the Interior. Completion and • Describe the methods for inviting citizen
adoption of this plan will provide Mason County participation in the planning process
with grant eligibility from 2022 through 2027 with and summarizes the key issues and
the RCO. The RCO also requires public and/or recommendations that citizens provided; and
community input as part of the planning process. • Discuss future development plans for existing
parks, possible new additions to the park
system, and the protection of park resources
This plan will provide a document that can be through policies and ordinances.
used to solicit a variety of grant sources for
parks planning and maintenance. 1.2 Setting and Context
Mason County was named for Charles H. Mason,
The plan contains a capital improvements territorial secretary and governor. Mason County is
element that recommends selected park and trail one of 39 counties in Washington, and the City of
improvements from 2022 through 2027 and lists Shelton is the county seat. Mason County is situated
potential park improvements beyond the planning along the southwestern portion of Puget Sound and
period over the next 20 years (through 2042). encompasses roughly 961 square miles. The County
borders with Jefferson County to the north, Grays
The recommendations in the capital improvements Harbor County to the west and southwest, Thurston
element were derived from the data collected from County to the southeast, Pierce County to the east,
the Parks and Trails Advisory Board, public meetings, and Kitsap County to the northeast.
the survey results, and staff input. Mason County remains a predominantly rural
County despite urban spillover from both Thurston
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Chapter 1 I Introduction 2
and Kitsap Counties. The City of Shelton, the only Mason County's rich natural resources and open
incorporated area in Mason County, includes spaces dominate the County's landscape. Combined
approximately 5.76 square miles, or less than one national, state, and private forests currently
percent of the County's total land area. There are account for over 80% of the County's land. Mineral
two unincorporated Urban Growth Areas (UGAs) deposits support 18 operating surface mines.
in Mason County, the Allyn UGA and the Belfair Agriculture and aquaculture areas contribute both
UGA in the northern area of Mason County. Two to the County's beauty and its economy. Mason
Native American Tribes, the Skokomish Tribe and the County also includes substantial open space. Open
Squaxin Island Tribe, have reservations within the space within the County hosts wildlife habitat,
boundaries of Mason County. undeveloped natural areas, and many developed
park and recreation sites. These open space areas
Landscape include over 100 sites managed by federal, state,
Three geological provinces combine to form Mason county, municipal and private interests. Within
County. They include the Puget Sound lowland, Mason County, designated long-term commercial
the Olympic Mountains, and the Black Hills. forest lands, National Park lands and National Forest
Additionally, seven watersheds exist within Mason lands are not available for development. Those three
County. They Include Case Inlet, Chehalis, Lower classifications combined account for approximately
Hood Canal, Oakland Bay, Skokomish, Totten-Little 56.8% of the land within Mason County.
Skookum, and West Hood Canal. Mason County
also includes over 350 miles of shoreline and nearly Climate
100 freshwater lakes. The larger of these bodies Mason County's climate can be characterized as
are Lake Cushman, Mason Lake, Lake Limerick, moderate-maritime, influenced by the Pacific Ocean,
Isabella Lake, Timberlakes and Spencer Lake. Hood yet sheltered by the Olympic Mountains. Average
Canal and Puget Sound account for most of Mason temperatures range from a high of 777 in July to
County's 90 square miles of water. Two-thirds of 337 in January. The average daily temperature
Hood Canal runs through Mason County. One in Mason County is 517. The County receives an
fork of the Skokomish feeds Lake Cushman and average of 66 inches of precipitation annually, with
the hydroelectric power plant at Potlatch (built by average monthly rainfalls ranging from a low in July
the City of Tacoma). Other notable rivers in Mason of 0.9 inches to a high of 10.4 inches in January.
County are the Satsop and Hamma Hamma.
4.,
a
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Chapter 1 Introduction 3
There is a yearly average of 136 sunny days, with 161 forestry and a growing aquaculture industry leading
days of precipitation annually. the nation in shellfish production.
The marine shorelines in Mason County cover about The County is highly specialized in the production
217 linear miles including the inner shores of inlets, of forest and aquaculture commodities. This
embayments, and estuaries. Elevations in the County specialization focuses on both raw materials and
range from 6,400 feet above mean sea level (MSQ in value-added products in these industries. Heavy
the foothills of the Olympic Mountains, to sea level construction and government service also anchor
along the coastline of Puget Sound and Hood Canal. the County's economy. Economic highlights
Additionally, the communities in Mason County that for Mason County, as identified by the State
are low-lying and located adjacent to South Puget Employment Security Department (ESD), include the
Sound and Hood Canal could be affected by sea following:
level rise.
• In 2019, the largest job holder age group
Climate change happens on scales ranging from in Mason County was the 55 and older
decades to centuries. Sea levels in Puget Sound age category, making up 26.1 percent of
are projected to rise between 3.0 inches and 22.0 employment across all industries. The next
inches by 2050 (Mote, 2008). All of these fluctuations largest share was among people aged 35 to 44
can have an impact on ecological conditions in the with 21.4 percent of employment.
shoreline environment. • In 2019, the county's workers mirrored
state patterns with workers aged 14 to 24
Population dominating the accommodation and food
Mason County's 2021 population is estimated at services jobs in the county with 29.2 percent
65,750 by the Washington State Office of Financial of the positions. This age group was also
Management (OFM) and is expected to grow to as well represented in arts, entertainment and
many as 73,991 by 2027 and to 86,147 people by recreation and retail trade.
the year 2042. In fact, seasonal population is higher • Workers in the 55 year and older age category
when tourism is at its peak. The population can were prevalent in educational services,
increase by 30-35% during the height of the season. transportation and warehousing, real estate
Historically, the bulk of Mason County's population and rental and leasing and other services.
growth has occurred in the unincorporated areas • Females made up 51.1 percent of the labor
of the County. The City of Shelton and the Urban force in Mason County with males making up
Growth Areas of Allyn and Belfair, however, are the difference at 48.9 percent in 2019. Men
expected to attract a larger share of Mason County's were more often represented in higher paying
population growth in the future. industries:
Economy Male-dominated industries included mining
(93.4 percent), agriculture (73.3 percent),
Mason County consistently experiences a higher construction (78.4 percent), manufacturing
unemployment rate than the statewide rate, though (72.9 percent) and transportation and
in recent years employment has rebounded to pre- warehousing (75.5 percent).
recession rates. Natural resource industries currently Female-dominated industries included
support Mason County's economy and are expected finance and insurance (79.9 percent),
to be important in the future. Rural lands cover over healthcare and social assistance (79.9
60% of the County. Employment in Mason County is percent) and educational services (71.8
still largely resource based, with a strong history of percent).
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Chapter 1 1 Introduction 4
GOALt AqD OBJECTIVES
Chapter
AL
The goals and objectives presented here set the 2.1 Goals and Objectives
trajectory for the long-term vision for Mason
County's parks, recreation, open space, and trail Goal 1• Administration
facilities and outline the steps to make it successful.
They emerged from the values and priorities Quality professional personnel guided by
expressed by the Mason County community innovative strategies to acquire, build, operate
through surveys, community meetings, and written and maintain the community and regional
comments throughout the public process. parks,special use areas, natural areas and a
Goals described in this chapter identify the County-wide trail system to effectively serve
community's aspirations; objectives are more the County in the realization of this plan.
measurable and describe how the goal can be • Indicators: By 2027, assessments by an ad hoc
achieved. planning advisory group verify that planned
These goals and objectives will also be incorporated activities included in the PROST Plan have been
into the Parks and Recreation element of the successfully completed.
county's Comprehensive Plan. The Comprehensive • Means of Verification: Assessment Report on
Plan contains framework goals that guide file in Director's Office.
countywide policies for the transportation system, • Assumptions: Funding is provided as budgeted.
public safety, parks, recreation, and other important
facets of the community to create a consistent, Objective 1.1• Leadership
unified plan for the county's future.
The Mason County Parks and Trails Department
leadership is effectively linked with and responsive
"We have such an opportunity to be a to the citizens.
destination area for enjoyment of our natural • Indicators: By the conclusion of 2027, feedback
resources (beautiful outdoors, salmon, obtained from individuals and citizen groups
shellfish, hiking, etc.)." indicates a high level of satisfaction with MCPR
-public survey comment
management.
• Means of Verification: Documented feedback
from citizen groups on file in Director's Office.
• Assumptions: The director is not assigned
additional, non-Parks and Recreation duties
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Chapter 2 1 Goals and Objectives 5
Objective 1.2: Staff Goal 2: Parks and Trail Projects
Superior and accessible customer services are Engagement of Mason County residents in
provided to the public and all departments in a planning and stewardship of park and trail
professional, informative and timely manner. resources increases public awareness and use
• Indicators: By the end of 2027, survey data and of the park and trail system.
information obtained from interviews with . Indicators: By the end of 2027, random surveys
those who use MCPR facilities and services of parks and trails as well as reports by coaches
show a high level of satisfaction with the of teams using athletic facilities show an
available facilities and with services provided. increase in use by the public.
• Means of Verification: Survey data and
summaries of interviews on file in Director's ' Means of Verification: Survey notes and reports
on file in Director's Office.
Office
• Assumptions: Staffing levels are not reduced; • Assumptions: Citizen participation in planning,
budgets are adequate. use and additional development of the trail
system.
"It would be nice if staff was available, Objective 2.1: Project Implementation
present and seen during busy nights at Facilities are developed to meet as many identified
MCRA. More often than not, no one is around needs as possible at community and regional park
to address issues. Maybe adjust staffing sites.
schedules to be present at the facility when • Indicators: By 2027, at least three of the needs
people are there with the most need." identified through the 2021 Parks and Trails
-public survey comment Survey and identified by the advisory board as
doable priorities have been completed.
• Means of Verification: Project reports and
minutes of Advisory Board meetings.
• Assumptions: Reliable funding sources.
Objective 2.2: Community Relations
Citizen planning committees and stewardship
programs which identify conceptual short- and
long-term use, management and maintenance
procedures and are developed and supported.
• Indicators: By 2027, recommendations obtained
from committee meetings and stemming
from input of those involved in stewardship
programs are considered, prioritized and
implemented.
• Means of Verification: Project reports and
minutes of Advisory Board meetings
• Assumptions: Committees meet regularly
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Chapter 2 1 Goals and objectives 6
Objective 2.3: Future Projects Goal 3: Parks Benefits
Creative approaches are applied in investigating and The Mason County Parks and Trails Department
pursuing potential resources for providing future actively promotes the individual, community,
parks, trails and recreation facilities. health, economic cultural and environmental
• Indicators: By 2027, at least three new resources benefits of parks and recreation services and
have been utilized to provide funding and/ facilities for all residents of and visitors to
or support for parks, trails, and recreation Mason County.
facilities.
• Indicators: By 2023, the MCPR has completed
• Means of Verification: Records of resource the development of promotional materials
allocations on file in Director's Office. and activities geared toward engaging and
• Assumptions: Donors have funds and are informing individuals and communities of the
interested in supporting the development of benefits of parks and recreation services and
parks and facilities. facilities.
• Means of Verification: Materials on file in the
Director's Office.
"I understand how some might feel we need . Assumptions: Continued cooperation with local
to spend our resources on construction of cultural entities e.g. Native American, Hispanic
facilities, but it seems to me the bottom line and Asian.
is limited by land being available for parks. If
it is not acquired now, if we wait too long, the Objective 3.1: Multiple-Use System
land will simply not be available. Growing the The system of parks, trails, recreation facilities and
inventory of publicly owned land is essential." natural areas are resource effective and distributed
-public survey comment community-wide to provide multiple benefits to the
Mason County citizens and visitor.
• Indicators: By 2023, the development of parks
Objective 2A Coordination and recreation facilities and natural areas
Cooperation, coordination and communication developed in the 6-year plan period reflect
with appropriate public and private agencies, expenditures and developments that are
organizations and individuals are promoted as part distributed among the three commissioner
of continuing efforts to maximize public recreational districts.
opportunities, minimize duplication, and enhance • Means of Verification: Parks & Recreation
service to the entire community. budgets, development plans, meeting minutes
on file in the Directors Office.
• Indicators: By June 2023, all stakeholders • Assumptions: Needs adequate appropriation to
engaged in planning for and supporting fund projects.
the development of public recreational
opportunities have developed a mutual
understanding of short- and medium-term Objective 3.2: Trails/Pedestrian Linkage
priorities and have outline steps to enhance A regional system of connected, coordinated
service to the citizens of and visitors to the linkages to major recreational areas, public facilities,
County. cultural/environmental features, parks, open
• Means of Verification: Agreed short- and spaces, via trails, paths, bicycle routes and other
medium-term priorities and action steps on file travel corridors that separate vehicular traffic and
in the Director's Office. non-vehicular traffic identified, investigated and
• Assumptions: Existing partner agencies developed where feasible..
continue to support parks and recreation • Indicators: By the end of 2023, a master plan
efforts. identifying potential off street links between
parks, open spaces, public facilities and areas of
interest is drafted.
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Chapter 2 1 Goals and Objectives 7
• Means of Verification: Off Street Corridor Objective 3.5: Cultural
Master Plan draft on file in Director's Office. Cultural and historic resources are preserved and
• Assumptions: Public support and on- going promoted wherever they exist in parks and on trails
use of off street trails and where right of way is throughout the County.
obtained.
• Indicators: By 2023, as a matter of policy, new
park, trail and natural areas that may have
1 would love to see more biking trails. Many
potentially important cultural or historical
parks have walking trails that could double significance are identified and plans made to
preserve them.
as biking trails but it seems frowned upon. 1 . Means Verification: Signage and maps in
think some simple signage would make these parks and on trails call attention to sites of
trails more inclusive to biking." cultural or historical importance.
-public survey comment • Assumptions: Vandalism is minimized.
Objective 3.3: Natural Resource Areas "1 like the conversation of funding and
Actions to preserve natural areas, protect fish and building parks and estuary type wetlands as 1
wildlife habitat corridors, conserve land, provide feel nature to this area is super important."
appropriate public access and offer environmental -public survey comment
education opportunities are promoted.
• Indicators: By the end of 2023, strategies and
materials for promoting the preservation Objective 3.6: Athletics
of natural areas, protecting fish and wildlife Youth and adult athletic recreation facilities are
habitat and for providing access and provided throughout the County.
educational opportunities are drafted and
reviewed by representatives of the public. • Indicators: By the end of 2027, based on
• Means of Verification: Strategies and materials priorities identified through public surveys
on file in Director's Office. and other forms of input, at least two new
• Assumptions: No major pollution events. recreational areas are identified and developed.
• Means of Verification: Plans, maps and
Objective 3.4: Water Access documents on file in the Directors Office.
Opportunities for water access and activities are • Assumptions: Grant funding is available to
provided throughout the County. augment county funds.
• Indicators: By 2023, potential areas for
providing access to water bodies are identified
and a committee established to visit and assess
each.
• Means of Verification: Maps and committee
reports on file in Directors Office.
• Assumptions: Some of the current potential
access areas are available.
"We really need more water access around
here. It is a real shame we have no trail from
the Salmon Center to eelfair Park."
-public survey comment
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Chapter 2 1 Goals and Objectives 8
,..
PUBLIC
Chapter
Public involvement is critical to understanding the representative of the perspectives and ideas of the
use, demands and popularity of Mason County's community from the beginning.
parks, recreation, and open spaces. As staff at RCO
will say, "The people who show up, get to make the 3.1 Engagement Effort
decisions." Over the past five months the Mason
County community has actively participated in the The engagement effort began on July 29, 2021 with
PROST Planning process through a series of online a review of the scope of work for the plan update.
events, Parks and Trails Advisory Board (PTAB) While this date represented the official starting line
meetings and engagement techniques. for the outreach and community engagement effort,
The intention behind the public involvement actions had already been set in motion to ensure
approach used was to maximize an equitable public transparency, a diversity of respondents, and
distribution of needs, wishes, and even ideas from a range of flexible opportunities for respondents
the public. To accomplish this, we implemented to offer local community insights on a timeline
a process that, in its most simplified form asked compatible with their unique schedule and preferred
a series of questions to gather the pulse of the participation medium.
community: A public participation strategy was developed in
September to ensure Mason County residents
• Where do residents live? were well informed of the opportunity to provide
• What parks do they frequent? an assessment and analysis of how parks and
• What do residents like about Mason County recreational facilities were performing in their
parks? current state and how they could be improved upon
• What improvements or changes would in the future. In total, the engagement included an
residents like to see? online community survey, a virtual open house and
• Where specifically do you wish these public mapping workshop, email and social media
improvements would happen? blasts, and flyer distribution to the community
centers and hubs throughout the County.
The intention behind the public involvement 3.1.1 Parks and Trails Advisory Board
approach was to maximize an equitable Instrumental throughout this effort, the PTAB
distribution of needs, wishes, and ideas from convened on a monthly basis to collectively review,
the public. offer direction, and comment on plan elements
ranging from the vision and mission statements,
goals and objectives, to the determined levels
Public participation and engagement with the PTAB of service and eventual plan adoption. Members
has been the driving force behind this plan and the graciously donated their time while working
ideas, goals, and objectives presented within are collaboratively with County staff and other content
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Chapter 3 1 Public Involvement 9
experts to ensure the elements of the plan were not Location
only consistent, but reflective of their community. In total, 790 individuals
provided comments as
3.1.2 Engagement Summary part of this outreach
Fes'w
Table 3.1 summarizes the total engagement received effort with locational
at each meeting, workshop, or survey deployed over responses reflecting
the course of the PROST planning process. more densely
populated areas of
Table 3.1 Public Engagement Summary the County. Responses
from the city of
Event - #of Comments Shelton accounted for Participants -
the highest number of
Five PROST Public comments within the
Meetings with Meeting 37 Yes survey at 37.5% and
PTAB members represents the most
Survey#1 Online Survey 790 Yes populous area within
Online Visioning Mason County. Of
Maptionnaire and Mapping 41 61 those who provided Walker Park
Workshop feedback within
the survey, only 5.8% of respondents identified
3.1.3 2021 Online Survey Results themselves as living outside the County.
Nearly 3% of respondents stated they visit Mason
Building off initial questions asked within the first County parks and recreational facilities at least once
two PTAB public meetings, an online survey was a week, with about 1% identifying themselves as
conducted over asix-week period to boost the daily park visitors. The most popular and frequently
reach of the initial outreach and offer a more flexible visited park is Mason Lake County Park, with over
schedule for respondents to engage in the effort 53% of respondents reported visiting the park within
The survey was made available in both hard copy the last year. Mason County Recreation Area and
and electronic formats with press releases, County Union Boat Ramp were two other popular choices.
website links, social media blasts, in-person
offerings, newsletters, and project flyers distributed Popular Amenities
across the County. While a summary of survey When asked about the types of facilities
responses has been included below, the entire respondents currently use, the top five were:
report can be found in Appendix D.
1. Unpaved nature trails
2. Walking and biking trails
3. Open space and natural habitats
4. Canoeing/kayaking/paddleboarding
5. Neighborhood parks
Open ended responses within this question
A identified wish list amenities including better access
to water and improved amenities at existing parks.
AJ
Greatest Need
` _ -• Survey takers were asked how they might distribute
parks and recreation resources over a ten-year
period. The leading needs within the community
were identified as acquisition and/or development
'fi of trails (46%) and acquisition or development of
sites to access waterbodies (46%). The other main
Sunset Bluff Park
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Chapter 3 1 Public Involvement 10
focus of resource allocation within the next decade ,
was on maintaining and improving existing parks
and facilities.
Greatest Barrier
A large number of respondents identified that they
were unaware of the location of park facilities (59%)
and therefore didn't use these facilities. This was
followed by safety and security (39%), proximity of
amenities (30%) and poor maintenance/cleanliness
(28%) as other common reasons given for not using
facilities and programs.
"1 don't visit a lot of these parks because 1
don't know where they are or how to access Watson Wildwood View Park
them.A map with all of these areas and where
to park/how to get to them would be great!" The virtual workshop employed location services
-public survey comment and GIS mapping to empower community members
to provide location specific insights, pinpoint
concerns, share comments, upload images, and
have meaningful discussions with other community
3.1.4 Maptionnaire Online Workshop members all while operating on their own individual
In recognition of scheduling conflicts, public timelines and comfort levels. In this way, participants
health advisories, and accessibility limitations, an were able to take the workshop with them while
online tool employing Public Participation GIS was actively engaging with the locations and facilities
developed to work in tandem with other outreach they were discussing. While a summary of fielded
efforts to lessen participation barriers and make the comments has been included below, the entire
project and ongoing discussions accessible at the report can be found in Appendix D.
individual level while out in the community.
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Chapter 3 1 Public Involvement 11
3.2 Public Engagement Findings
The following sections contain a graphic summary of the survey responses collected during the public
engagement efforts.
3.2.1 County Parks and Recreation Needs
HOW STRONGLY DO YOU AGREE OR DISAGREE WITH EACH OF THE FOLLOWING STATEMENTS?
The County needs... ■Strongly Agree ■Agree ■ No Preference ■Disagree ■Strongly Disagree
Undeveloped Natural
Areas/Open Space
Urban Trails/Sidewalks
(Non-Motorized)
Water Access Facilities(Boat
Ramps,Piers,Beaches,etc.)
Support Amenities
Youth Programs/Camps
Picnic Areas/
Shade Structures
Community Center/
Indoor Facilities
Splash/Spray Park
Off-Leash Dog Park
Amenity-Specific Parking
Sport Courts(Basketball,
Tennis,Pickleball,etc.)
Ball Fields(Soccer,
Baseball,Football,etc.)
Sports Leagues
(18 and Over)
I I
0 20 40 60 80 100
percent of respondents
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Chapter 3 1 Public Involvement 12
3.2.2 Trail Project Prioritization
WHICH OF THESE PLANNED/PROPOSED TRAIL PROJECTS SHOULD THE COUNTY PRIORITIZE?
SHELTON TO BELFAIR TRAIL 29%
MASON LAKE PARK TO TWANOH STATE PARK 27%
BELFAIR TO ALLYN TRAIL 22%
KENNEDY CREEK SALMON TRAIL EXTENSION 20%
SWEETWATER CREEK WATER WHEEL TRAIL 17% rplan?ned
SHELTON TO MCRA PARK TRAIL 17% ondents identified the
NORTH BAY TRAIL—ALLYN TO CASE INLET 11% Shelton to Belfair Trait
as a high-priority trail project
CAMP GOVEY TRAIL 10% for Mason County
NORTH BAY TRAIL 4%
MENARDS LANDING TO HARVEY RENDSLAND PARK TRAIL 3%
0 50 100 150 200 250
number of respondents
WHERE SHOULD THE COUNTY FOCUS ITS RESOURCES FOR MAINTAINING AND CONSTRUCTING TRAILS?
NATURE TRAILS(SOFT SURFACE) 46%
LINKS TO EXISTING TRAILS(TRAILS NETWORK) 40%
PAVED TRAILS FOR WALKING AND BIKING 32%
LONG DISTANCE TRAILS(5+MILES) 31% 46
REGIONAL TRAIL CORRIDOR LINKS 20% of all respondents identified
nature trails as a priority for
EXERCISE TRAILS 19% trail construction and
maintenance resources
TRAILS THAT IMPROVE ROUTES TO SCHOOLS 9%
EQUESTRIAN TRAILS 4%
0 50 100 150 200 250 300 350 400
number of respondents
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Chapter 3 1 Public Involvement 13
3.2.4 Resource Distribution
OVER THE NEXT 10 YEARS,HOW SHOULD THE COUNTY DISTRIBUTE ITS PARKS& RECREATION RESOURCES?
ACQUISITION AND/OR DEVELOPMENT OF WALKING AND BIKING TRAILS 21.0
MAINTENANCE/IMPROVEMENTS OF EXISTING PARKS AND FACILITIES 20.0
ACQUISITION AND/OR DEVELOPMENT OF SITES TO ACCESS WATERBODIES 16.7
ACQUISITION OF NEW PARK LAND OR NATURALAREAS 12.8
DEVELOPMENT OF NEW PARK FACILITIES(PLAYGROUNDS,SHELTERS, ETC.) 10.8
CONSTRUCTION OF NEW ATHLETIC FACILITIES(FIELDS,COURTS, ETC.) 7.5
0 5 10 15 20 25
average value assigned (out of 100%)
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Chapter 3 1 Public Involvement 14
3.2.5 Open-Ended Comments
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HORSE-FRIENDLY FACILITIES 14% ,
OTHER FACILITYTYPES 13%
WATER ACCESS 8%
AVAILABILITY OF PARKS INFORMATION 8%
OPEN SPACE ACQUISITION 7%
PRESERVATION/NATURE 6%
STAFFING/FUNDING NEEDS 5%
COMMUNITY SPACES/ACCESSIBILITY 5%
CONNECTIONS TO FACILITIES UNDER OTHER OWNERSHIP 3%
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Chapter 3 1 Public Involvement 15
R* Y
INVENTO
Chapter
4.1 Existing Facilities Table 4A Existing Mason County Parks
In order to manage the most effective and efficient Map H* Park Acreage
park system, the existing inventory is defined by Neighborhood Parks
different types of parks. Each classification provides
for a specific type of recreation experience and 5 Foothills Park 10
opportunity. The parks and recreation system 2 Hunter Park 015
.1
provides benefits that affect property values, 6 union Park 1.92
tourism, health and fitness, community cohesion, Total-Neighborhood Parks(3sites) 12.07
clean water/air and provides overall value to quality Community Parks
of life. 20 Coulter Creek 113.00
The following collection of inventory data provides 3 Harvey Rendsland Park 15.00
a view of the system for understanding of the 18 Jacoby/Shorecrest Park 2.80
dynamics of the Mason County Parks and Trails Latimer's Landing Boat
Department. Table 4.1 summarizes parks owned 16 Launch and Overflow Parking(2 sites) 5.00
and managed by the Department. Currently, Mason 8 Mason Lake Park 17.36
County owns and manages 21 sites with 1014.46 4 Menards Landing(Boat Launch) 7.40
acres of developed and undeveloped park property. 15 Phillips Lake Park 0.40
The park system offers a wide range of active and 11 Sunset Bluff Park 36.00
passive recreational opportunities including ball 10 Truman Glick Park 35.46
fields, picnic areas, walking, biking and water trails, 7 union Boat Ramp 0.16
boat launches, natural area and wildlife habitat open
spaces. 19 Walker Park 5.04
Total-Community Parks(17 sites) 237.62
4.1.1 County Parks Regional Parks
13 Mason County Recreation Area 40.00
Mason County has four classifications of parks, 14 Oakland Bay Park s1.s7
which include:
1 Sandhi[[ Park 30.00
• Neighborhood Parks Total-Regional Parks(3sites) 151.87
• Community Parks Natural Open Space
• Regional Parks 12 Decker Creek 500.00
• Natural Areas 5 Foothills Park 70.00
Following is a description of each park type and a 17 Harstine Island Park 6.90
summarized inventory of each park site. Detailed 9 Watson Wildwood view Park 36.00
descriptions of each of the County's parks, listed by Total-Natural Open Space(4 sites) 612.90
recommended classification with details of existing Total Acreage(21 sites) 11014.46
*Refer to location map(Figure 4.1)on following page
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Chapter 4 Inventory 16
Figure 4.1 Mason County Park Location Map
Olympic National Park
Bremerton
Lillie aup 1
Tahuya State Forest �2 Be[fai r
Olympic National Forest -
'rd -
5� 4
Hoodsport ; :3 20
Allyn
_
Potlatch ,� S 4
— Tahuya_61
9
Grapeview
�• �j i *x
15
; ; 16
Matlock 14
-_ ,`x. Harstine Island
z�� -17
, 12 Shelton
•. i19
✓. rat' �_. ;�:w�- � ! � � �. `�
Olympia
1 Sandhill County Park 8 Mason Lake County Park 15 Phillips Lake County Park
2 Hunter Park 9 Watson Wildwood View Park 16 Latimers Landing County Park
3 Rendsland County Park 10 Truman Glick County Park 17 Harstine Island Park
4 Menards Landing 11 Sunset Bluff Park 18 Jacoby/Shorecrest County Park
5 Foothills County Park 12 Decker Creek Park 19 Walker County Park
6 Union County Park 13 Mason County Recreation Area 20 Coulter Creek Park
7 Union Boat Ramp 14 Oakland Bay Historical Park
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Chapter 4 1 Inventory 17
conditions, inventory, and future capital needs, can Regional Parks
be found in Appendix A. Regional Parks have significant acreage and serve
the entire County population. These parks allow for
Neighborhood Parks recreational use, with special features that may have
Neighborhood parks serve a 1/2-mile distance a unique offering focusing on active and passive
to most citizens and provide a local destination recreation. In Mason County there are three major
for nearby communities. They are used for non- regional parks: Mason County Recreation Area
supervised play and typically accommodate a (MCRA) near Shelton in south-county, the Oakland
variety of activities including children's playgrounds, Bay Park is north Shelton and south of Belfair and
picnic tables, open grass for passive use, outdoor Sandhill Park near Belfair in the north. Table 4.2 lists
basketball court and restrooms. Table 4.2 lists the the regional parks in Mason County and the facilities
neighborhood parks in Mason County and the at each park.
facilities at each park.
Natural Open Space Areas
Community Parks Natural open space parks can vary in size and
Community parks are designed to serve as a focal function and can include significant acreage. They
point for community-wide or suburban/rural areas are defined as land or water left primarily in its
of the County. They are smaller than regional parks natural state. Left generally undeveloped they
and often include unique or specific uses with provide habitat value or serve as preservation areas
special features. They allow for an active recreation for protected habitat and species. Waterfront parks
with fields, lighting, parking and vehicle traffic. The are linked to the adopted Shoreline Master Plan.
Mason County Community Parks offer playgrounds, Passive recreation includes hiking, bird watching,
picnic areas, passive use areas, trails, boat launches, boating, fishing, picnicking, beachcombing, wildlife
restrooms and ball fields. Table 4.2 lists the viewing and other activities. Table 4.2 lists the open
community parks in Mason County and the facilities space parks in Mason County and the facilities at
at each park. each park.
3 -
A
Oakland Bay Park
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Chapter 4 1 Inventory 18
Table 4.2 Mason County Parks Inventory
41
CD
Neighborhoo
Foothills Park 10.00 x x x x x x x x _ x
Hunter Park 0.15 x x x x x
Union Park 1.92 x x x x x x x x x x x x
Neighborhood Parks Total 12.07
Community
Coulter Creek 113.00 ! x x x x x x x
Harvey Rendsland Park 15.00 x x x x x x x
Jacoby/Shorecrest Park 2.80 x x x x x x
Latimer's Landing Boat 5.00 x x x x x x x
Launch and Parking
Mason Lake Park 17.36 x x x x x x x x x x
Menards Landing(Launch) 7.40 x x * x x x x x x
Phillips Lake Park 0.40 s x x x x x
Sunset Bluff Park 36.00 x x x x x
Truman Glick Park 35.46 x x x x x x x x x x x x
Union Boat Ramp 0.16 x x x x
Walker Park 5.04 x x * x x x x x x x x x x x
Community Parks Total 237.62
LML-T -mar
Mason County Recreation Area 40.00 x x x x x x x
Oakland Bay Park 81.87 x x x x x x
Sandhi[[ Park 30.00 x x x x x x
Regional Parks Total 151.87
Natural Open Space
Decker Creek 500.00 x x
Foothills Park 70.00 x x x x x
Harstine Island Park 6.90 x x x x
Watson Wildwood 36.00 x x x x
Natural Open Space Total 612.90
Mason County Parks Total 1014.46
Notes.
*=boat launch is hand carry only
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Chapter 4 1 Inventory 19
4.1.2 County Recreation Facilities Table 4.3 Mason County Facilities Inventory
Mason County offers a variety of recreation Facility Type Number of
and sport facilities within its parks which adds Facilities
opportunities and experiences for citizens and Basketball Court 3
visitors to the County. Table 4.3 lists the major Barbecues 65
facilities maintained by the Parks and Trails Ball fields 14
Department.
Batting Cages 2
4.1.3 State, Federal, Shelton, County, Boat Launch 4
Special District, and State Recreation Fishing 7
Resources Hand Carry Boat Launch 6
Nature Area 7
There are a number of other governmental agencies Picnic Shelter 3
which own and manage park property in Mason
County. Table 4.4 shows the various landowners, Picnicking 11
acreage or number of sites, and park amenities at Playgrounds 5
each park location. There are over 5,000 acres of Restrooms 11
parkland owned and managed by other government walking/Jogging 6
agencies within the boundaries of Mason County.
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Chapter 4 Inventory 20
Table 4.4 Other Parklands in Mason County
Non-ProfitFacility Acreage Amenities Available
Private ..
South Mason Soccer Park 10.4 6 soccer fields, plus modified-field area for small side games,
restroom and concession. Built/maintained by South Mason County
Youth Soccer Club.
. . . •.
Belfair State Park 65 Camping, 118 tent sites,47 utility sites,trails,trailer dump facility,
recreation and picnic area,3,780-ft.tidelands
Harstine Island State Park 310 Undeveloped,3,100 ft. of tidelands
Hoodsport Trails 80 Natural area with trails
Hope Island 106 Undeveloped,8,540 ft.of tidelands; boat access only
Jarrell Cove 106 Camping,22 tent sites,group site, picnic area, marine pump station,
2 docks with 500 ft. of moorage,14 mooring buoys,3,500 ft. of
tidelands,trails
Lake Isabella 193.75 Undeveloped, no development plans
Lilliwaup Tideland 0 4,100 ft. of tidelands for public use, no amenities
McMicken Island 11.45 Undeveloped,1,660 ft. of tidelands, boater destination. Could be
developed in the future with 5-8 camping sites and composting
toilet. Boat access only
Potlach State Park 57 Camping,39 serviced sites,40 standard sites,3 primitive sites,
underwater park,trailer dump, 9,570 ft. of tidelands
Schafer State Park 119 Group camping for 100, Day use campsites for 100 max, picnic and
BBQ,day use,trailer dump
Stretch Point 4.2 Natural area, day use,5 mooring buoys no development plans,610
ft.of tidelands
Twanoh State Park 182 Camping,30 tent sites,9 utility sites, primitive sites,3,167 ft.of
tidelands
DepartmentWashington State
Aldrich Lake 0.5 Boat launch,15 parking spaces
Benson Lake 78.8 Boat launch, beach access,100 parking spaces 1 toilet
Cady Lake 1.6 Boat launch,10 parking spaces, porta-potty
Clara Lake 9 Boat launch,30 parking spaces,1 toilet
Cushman Lake 44 Boat launch,100 parking spaces,1 toilet(Kokanee)
Decker Creek 2.3 Water Access on Satsop River, no developed facilities
Devereaux Lake 1.3 Boat launch, beach access,40 parking spaces,1 toilet
Haven Lake 4.1 Boat launch,10 parking spaces,1 toilet /County PW ROW:Agreement
for Use of Land to WDFW
Highway 101 Undeveloped access on the Skokomish River
Isabella Lake 1.6 Boat launch,20 parking spaces,1 toilet
Island Lake 1 Boat launch,1 toilet
Lake Limerick 0.5 Boat launch, beach,30 parking spaces,1 toilet
Lost Lake 1.3 Boat launch,40 parking spaces,1 toilet
Maggie Lake 1.3 Boat launch,10 parking spaces,1 toilet
Nahwatzel Lake 1 Water access, undeveloped
North Bay 2.3 Shellfish /Puget Sound,15 parking spaces,1 toilet
Oakland Bay 2 Walk-in only,1 toilet
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Chapter 4 I Inventory 21
Table 4.4(continued) Other Parklands in Mason County
DepartmentFacility Acreage Amenities Available
Washington State
Panhandle Lake 20 Undeveloped
Panther Lake 3 Boat Launch,30 parking spaces,1 toilet
Phillips Lake 1 Boat launch, beach, parking for 40 vehicles,2 toilets, co-managed
with Mason County
Sherwood Creek 102 Undeveloped water access on Case Inlet
Skokomish Wildlife Area 45 George Adams Hatchery along the river
Skokomish River/Smith 104 30.6 ft.of riverfront,shore access,20 parking spaces,1 toilet
Spencer Lake 2 Boat launch, beach,50 parking spaces,1 toilet
Tahuya River 2.9 4,400 ft. of riverfront,10 parking spaces
Tee Lake 3.6 Boat launch,20 parking spaces
Theler Wetland Trails 135 Partnership with WDFW/4 separate trails, Exhibit Center, Native Plant
Demonstration Garden
Trails End Lake(Pricket) 0.5 Boat launch, parking for 30 vehicles,1 toilet
Twin Lake 3.6 Boat launch,15 parking spaces
Union River Access#1 0.5 Parking, Hood Canal/Union River Access waterfowl access
Union River Estuary 61.8 8,098 ft. of riverfront,10 parking spaces
Union River Wetlands 215 Parking, Duck Blinds/water fowl hunting, hand boat launch
Wildberry Lake 10 Undeveloped
Wooten Lake 1 Boat launch, 60 parking spaces,1 toilet.
, , • !•„
Aldrich Lake Camp 24 1,700 ft. of waterfront, hand boat launch, picnic area, day use,
fishing,16 parking spaces
Camp Spillman 10 800 ft.waterfront,10 campsites,1 group site,toilet, covered picnic
area
Effendahl Pass Staging Area 5 Staging area, 6 picnic sites,self-contained RVs permitted,toilets,1
covered picnic area, Effendahl Pass 4x4 Trailhead
Howell Lake Day use only, hand boat launch,toilets, picnic area,and 20 parking
spaces
Kamenga Campground 4x4 trailhead,toilet,6 campsites,8 RV areas,8 tent sites, picnic
tables and fire rings
Mission Creek Trailhead 1 Staging area for motorized trail access
Robbins Lake 11 175 ft.waterfront, hand boat launch, picnic area,toilets,day use only
Tahuya River Horse Camp 12 1,600-ft.waterfront,11 campsites,1 group campsite,toilets,water,
20-horse corral
Twin Lakes Day use only, picnic,toilet,fishing, hand boat launch
Melbourne Lake 1,000 ft.waterfront, day use only,walk-in,toilets
Lilliwaup Creek Campground 500-ft.waterfront, day use only,walk-in
Public Tidelands:24,33,43,44,46-48 Water access,selected clamming,oysters, crabbing,fishing
Eagle Creek Tidelands Access, clamming, crabbing
Rendsland Creek Tidelands 5 Access, clamming
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Chapter 4 1 Inventory 22
Table 4.4(continued) Other Parklands in Mason County
Facility Acreage Amenities Available
"Skokornish Tribal
Skokomish Park at Lake Cushman 600 3-boat launches,41,500'fresh-waterfront,100 parking sites,50 tent
camp sites,30 trailer sites,2 primitive camp sites,group camping,
group shelter, picnic sites/shelter,3 toilets.
Skokomish Light Saltwater Park Park and Lake Kokanee boat launches/restrooms for public use.
(transfer from Tacoma City Light)
City of Shelton Parks and Recreation
Brewer Park 0.3 Picnic area, mature vegetation,on-street parking
Callanan Park 6.9 Ball field, play equipment, restroom, natural area, basketball court,
restrooms, informal trails, basketball court
City Park 1.75 Undeveloped
Huff and Puff Trail 5.0 2 miles walking/jogging trail with exercise stations on wooded
property,20 parking spaces at trailhead
Johnson Park 0.5 Basketball court, mature trees,10 parking spaces
Kneeland Park 3.9 Large play area, restroom,group picnic shelter, horseshoes, open
play area, landscaping,street-parking for 25 vehicles
Loop Field 4 2 tennis courts, ball field,athletic field, play structure,jogging trail,
group picnic area, restroom,100 parking spaces
Overlook Park 1.03 Historic marker overlooking downtown, Oakland Bay and mills with
temporary parking
Pine St. Ramp 0.4 Unimproved boat launch on Oakland Bay
Sixth Street Park 0.14 Park closed for future rehabilitation in partnership with community/
neighbors.Tentative reopening June 2013.
Port of Allyn
Allyn Waterfront Park 2 400 ft. of waterfront, moorage, dock, picnic,gazebo,20 parking
spots, playground, boat launch, pump out.
Allyn Kayak Park 3 300' beach, hand launch,viewing, picnicking
North Shore Ramp Belfair 1.2 150-ft.waterfront, boat launch, dock, beach,20 parking spaces
Dewatto River Campground Camping, 60 campsites,37 with electricity, no sewage dump, no
garbage facilities, no running water,4 toilets,trails, picnic area,
fishing
Port of Hoodsport
Ingvold Grunvold Waterfront Park 2 Dock, beach access,tidelands, restroom
Hoodsport Community Trail Walking trail,wildlife viewing, interpretive signs
Sanderson Field 1,170 Airfield,fairground (67 acres)
Oakland Bay Marina Boat moorage and launch, pump-out, parking
Mason .unty Public Schools
Belfair Elementary 0.5 Playground
Sandhi[[ Elementary 2.2 Playground
Hood Canal School District 2 baseball backstops,1 football field, playground,track,30 parking
spaces, plans to build a new K-8 school.
Pioneer Primary Playground,track,athletic field, covered basketball backstop
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Chapter 4 I Inventory 23
Table 4.4(continued) Other Parklands in Mason County
Facility Acreage Amenities Available
Mason County Public Schools
Pioneer Intermediate/Middle Playground, baseball field,2 play fields, covered, basketball
backstop,tetherball poles
Grapeview Elementary Playground
Southside Elementary 1 baseball field
Bordeaux 3 Playground,One open multi-Use Field
Evergreen Elementary 1.5 Playground
Mountain View Elementary 6 Playground,One open multi-use field.
Shelton High School 6.5 5 tennis courts,1 baseball field,4 practice football/soccer field
combinations,1 football field,1 swimming pool,1 diving well,1 track
Mary K. Knight District 2 baseball fields,1 football field, playground
Oakland Bay Junior High 6 5 football/soccer fields,1 landscaped courtyard
Olympic Middle 6.5 Multi-use Field, Basketball hoops
Hawkins Middle 3.5 Playground,athletic field
North Mason High School 8.54 2 baseball fields,2 tennis courts,football field,soccer field,
playground,track
Department of the Interior . Park
Olympic Nat. Park—Staircase Camp Picnic area,50 campsites, 60 parking spaces
Big Creek Campground 6 Loop campground with 78 campsites, no reservations,trail access to
Mt. Ellinor and intersects with Big Creek Loop
Browns Creek Campground 1 Browns Creek Nature Loop Trail,campsites RV's under 21' max,vault
toilet(3), potable water,along south fork of Skokomish River and
confluence of Browns Creek.
Hamma Hamma Campground 5 14 single sites,vault toilet, potable water,tents,trailers and RV's.
Lower Lena Lake Campground 6 40 campsites, hike in,vault toilet
Upper Lena Creek Campground 7 13 single sites,vault toilet, potable water, RV's max 21';climbing,
fishing,and picnicking.
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Chapter 4 1 Inventory 24
4.2 Existing Operations / Park County park hosts are currently at Foothills Park,
Truman Glick Park and Mason Lake Park. The park
Maintenance hosts are responsible for security, opening and
Mason County currently operates 21 parks with a closing park facilities, and general clean-up during
variety of recreation facilities totaling 1014.46 acres. their contractual period. Park hosts are invaluable to
These parks range from natural areas to intensive the County because of the geographic dispersion of
use areas. At the present time, Mason County does Mason County's park system.
not offer any department-sponsored recreation Administrative and Maintenance objectives
programs or special events at any of its parks. These encourage the promotion of professional staff that
structured recreation programs are offered by local is effective and responsive in sustaining quality
youth sports associations, non-profit organizations services and exploring opportunities to enhance
or by the Shelton Metropolitan Park District. the benefits and function of the park system. Goal
The Mason County Parks and Trails Department is 1 identifies the need to have quality staff that
separated into divisions providing administration, effectively serves the County park system.
park maintenance and operations and facility services. Project and Planning Goals promote citizen
The general administration includes the Senior engagement in stewardship objectives in the
Accounting Technician, the division manager and the park plan address the need to develop facilities
Department Director.This division is responsible for that reduce maintenance costs with established
general customer service, facilities scheduling, payroll, maintenance standards for efficiency and safety with
accounts payable, accounts receivable, general realistic multi-year plans that can be implemented
administration, park planning, grant administration, and funded. Goal 2 summarizes this effort which
park development, and special projects.The park is to "Plan, acquire and develop parks, trails
division provides maintenance and operation of all and recreation facilities which provide public
the County parks. Park staff in this division includes opportunities that maximize identified needs,
one Park Maintenance V and one Park Maintenance minimize duplication and enhance recommended
IV full-time maintenance employees.The previous park services throughout Mason County."
chart illustrates the current organizational structure of
Mason County Parks and Trails Department. Goal 3 actively promotes the individual, community,
health, economic cultural and environmental benefits
The Parks and Trails Department administrative offices of parks and recreation services and facilities for all
are located at Mason County Recreation Area (MCRA). residents of and visitors to Mason County.
The maintenance staff also stages all operations
from the MCRA in the course of performing their Through annual appropriation, the Mason County
daily operations and maintenance. Staff travel long Facilities, Parks and Trails Department can receive
distances throughout the County to maintain parks at through the annual budget process, capital funding
various locations. In the southern area of the County through the Mason County Real Estate Excise Tax
is Truman-Glick Park, located west of Matlock while on funding (REET). As described in detail in Chapter 7,
the north area of the County near Tahuya is Menard's REET is an optional tax of the property's sale price.
landing and Harvey Rendsland Jiggs Lake Park. One-half of one percent for REET#1 can be used
These two locations require the most travel time but for capital acquisition and the second half of one
fortunately they are low-maintenance park facilities. percent which is REET#2, can be used for capital
development only.
The Mason County Parks and Trails Department
also utilizes caretakers and park host attendants.
The caretakers are located at Walker Park, MCRA,
and Sandhill Park. Park caretakers at some locations
live in on-site housing supplied by Mason County.
They are responsible for general customer service
and light maintenance, including restroom cleanup
and litter control. However, the greatest benefit they
provide is site security.
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Chapter 4 1 Inventory 25
fh i�i
DEMAND AND NEEDS ANALYSIS
Chapter 5
The purpose of the demand and needs analysis 5.1 Scope and Purpose
is to evaluate, quantify and understand both the
facility and recreational demand and identify the The NRPA also defines a classification system of
existing and future needs for providing parkland, parks which include neighborhood parks, community
facilities, open spaces from now and into the future. parks, regional parks and natural open space.
The definition of needs includes both preservation Parks vary in size, function, and service area
of existing services/resources as well as the needs depending on the classification. The NRPA has also
into the future. The current update, presented developed demand standards as a guideline for the
here, reflects the needs, desires and recommended number of parks facilities needed per population.
priorities that set the foundation for the next 15 to
20 years. Levels of Service (LOS) are quantifiable measures of
the amount of public facilities that are provided to
The 2022 determination of the need for park the County. Typically, LOS measures are expressed as
facilities and open space is based on public input ratios of facility capacity to demand. For the Mason
and the community's vision for the County system. County PROST Plan, LOS is expressed in acres of
Interpreting that vision for Mason County involved parkland or facilities per 1,000 people.
multiple tasks, including identification of existing
park and facility inventory, public involvement, Because the vision, values, and needs of
review of trends, geographic analysis, identified data each community are different, planners have
and use demand and calculations with application of acknowledged that simply quantifying local LOS
standards for analysis. to a national standard is not an effective means
of evaluating a community's unique needs and
Standards are based on the National Recreation a community's vision. Accordingly, NRPA's LOS
and Park Association's (NRPA) guidelines. Adequate standards have evolved in recent decades. While
land is at a minimum based on a "core" system of LOS provides a helpful benchmark for comparison, a
parklands, with "adjunct" parklands that reflect community that relies solely on LOS for determining
Mason County as compared to other demands recreation needs fails to identify community-
identified in Local Park and recreational systems specific issues such as a facility's quality, residents'
throughout the Pacific Northwest. This plan assesses satisfaction with the existing facilities, or the
the recreational demands of Mason County starting uniqueness of a communities intrinsic character
with the national and state standards and trends, and heritage. Therefore, a variety of methods and
past levels of service standards, public involvement conditions were used to help determine a more
that identified County-wide needs. Based on realistic LOS demand and need for parks and open
our analysis and after a review with County staff, space facilities. However, while quantitative data was
current agreements (both formal and informal) used to derive some comparisons, due to the variety
with adjacent partnering agencies, PTAB members, and impact of recreational facilities at Olympic
and County Commission, it was determined that National Park, Potlatch State Park, Jarrell Cove State
the outdoor recreation opportunities that exist on Park and many other regional park complexes, it
county and public school lands should be included became clear that LOS used would be qualitative.
in the County's total parks and recreation inventory.
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Chapter 5 1 Demand and Needs Analysis 26
5.2 Population Projections Table 5.2 NRPA Guideline Standards for Population
Mason County is the sixth fastest growing County Park Type Guideline
in the state with a current population growth rate of Neighborhood Park 1-2 acres/1,000 pop.
approximately 2% per year. The Office of Financial
Management (OFM) predicts population projections Community Park 5-8 acres /1,000 pop.
under the Growth Management Act (GMA) to Regional Park 5-10 acres/1,000 pop.
accommodate growth over the next 20 years. Natural Open Space Variable
The total population of Mason County in 2021 is Recreation Facilities Guideline
estimated by OFM to be 65,750 (Table 5.1).
Baseball/Softball Fields 1 field/5,000 pop.
Table 5.1 Mason County Current Playgrounds 1 playground/3,000 pop.
and Forecasted Population Soccer Fields 1 field/10,000 pop.
Year Population Tennis Courts 1 court/2,000 pop.
Trails(miles) 0.5 miles/1,000 pop.
2021 65,750 Source:National Recreation and Park Association(NRPA)
2027 73,991
2042 86,147 and needs evaluation was conducted to establish
Source:Washington State Office of Financial an appropriate level of service (LOS) standard for
Management(OFM) Mason County Parks based on the recreation needs
of the community. However, while quantitative
The population density in Mason County is 63.3 data was used to derive some comparisons, due to
persons per square mile as compared to the average the variety and impact of recreational facilities at
population density of 113.4 persons per square mile Olympic National Park, Potlatch State Park, Jarrell
for the state of Washington. This plan uses 65,750 Cove State Park and many other regional park
as the population for the existing level of service complexes, it became clear that LOS used would be
analysis. The OFM population projections presented qualitative.
in Table 5.1 are used to project future demand — LOS standards are quantifiable measures of the
a population of 73,991 by the end of the 6-year parkland and recreation facilities that are provided
planning period (2027) and 86,147 by the end of the to the community, often expressed on a per
20-year long-term planning horizon (2042). capita basis (e.g., the number of park acres per
1,000 residents). The National Recreation and Park
5.3 Demand and Need Analysis Association (NRPA), a non-profit organization
dedicated to the advancement of public parks,
A demand and need evaluation is the investigation recreation, and conservation, established a set of
and measurement of how well the parks and LOS standards in the 1980s to help communities
recreation needs of the community— how people evaluate their recreation needs. Since then, LOS
like to spend their recreation time, what types of has been used as a planning tool to compare a
activities they choose to pursue, and how often local community's facilities against those of other
they participate—are being met. As part of this plan communities, agencies, and national standards.
update, a joint quantitative and qualitative demand
Table 5.3 NRPA Service Area Guideline Recommendations
Recommended Acceptable Minimum
Neighborhood Park 1/2 mile 1/2 mile 1 mile
Community Park 1 mile 2 mile 3 mile
Regional Park 15 miles 20 miles 25 miles
Natural Open Space County-wide County-wide County-wide
Source:National Recreation and Park Association(NRPA)
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Chapter 5 1 Demand and Needs Analysis 27
The demand and needs analysis is detailed in of county, state and school facilities, analysis of
sections 5.2 and 5.3 for parkland and facilities. The demographic trends and population projections,
process includes inventory reviews to determine and input from community members.
the existing need (what the citizens want/identify)
and future demand (calculations/comparisons). National Recreation Guidelines as a
Development of the statement of"need" is Quantitative Measure
dependent on local values, financial resources Comparing the County's parks and recreational
and desired level of service (LOS). This analysis
represents a combination of results from the 2021 spaces to those across the nation provides a
Parks and Trails Survey, Community Workshops and quantitative benchmark and a starting point to
state and national standards and trends related measuring the performance of its park system.
to existing inventory, as well as current and future NRPA studies national recreation trends and
frequently publishes support documents and
population which forms a statistical standard to
meet demand. The NRPA guideline standards for recommendations for public municipalities.
parks and recreation facilities by population can be The NRPA level of service guidelines originally
found in Table 5.2, and the service area guideline developed in 1983 offered guidance suggesting
recommendations can be found in Table 5.3. that "a park system, at minimum, be composed
Because the vision, values, and needs of of a core system of parklands, with a total of 6.25
each community are different, planners have to 10.5 acres of developed open space per 1,000
acknowledged that simply quantifying local LOS population". While this has since become a relatively
to a national standard is not an effective means accepted target benchmark, it is important to
of evaluating a community's unique needs and note that NRPA offers this range of ratios as a
a community's vision. Accordingly, NRPA's LOS comparative guide only. Since the development
standards have evolved in recent decades. While of some statistical baselines, various publications
LOS provides a helpful benchmark for comparison, a have updated and expanded upon possible
community that relies solely on LOS for determining park standards, several of which have also been
recreation needs fails to identify community- published by NRPA. In 2017, NRPA published an
specific issues such as a facility's quality, residents' updated performance review of 925 park agencies
satisfaction with the existing facilities, or the across the nation. This review revealed that the
uniqueness of a communities intrinsic character typical US park agency that serves a jurisdictional
and heritage. Therefore, a variety of methods and population of less than 20,000 has a median ratio
conditions were used to help determine a more of 10.5 acres of parkland to 1,000 residents. Rather
realistic LOS demand and need for parks and open than a one-size-fits-all acres to population standard,
space facilities. NRPA now recommends that each community
develop its own standards based on local goals,
Based on our analysis and after a review with County priorities, and conditions.
staff, current agreements (both formal and informal)
with adjacent partnering agencies, PTAB members, Washington State Recreation Guidelines
and County Commission, it was determined that Washington State's Recreation Conservation Office
the outdoor recreation opportunities that exist on (RCO) offers additional insights on how to enact
county and public school lands should be included level of service standards to guide parks and
in the County's total parks and recreation inventory. recreation planning.
5.3.1 LOS Evaluation Methods The RCO level of service guidelines focus on a
community's success in setting and meeting its
This plan takes both a quantitative and qualitative recreation and open space goals and proposes
approach to identifying community-specific park that jurisdictions measure level of service based on
needs within Mason County. Evaluation of the several criteria, including distance, means of access,
community's recreational needs was conducted support of"muscle-powered" recreation, condition
using a variety of methods, including an assessment of facilities, sustainability, and public satisfaction.
of national and state recreation guidelines,
comparison of the County parks standards and Additionally, the RCO releases a Statewide
facilities with those of peer communities, inclusion Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Programming
(SCORP) document every five years, which includes
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Chapter 5 1 Demand and Needs Analysis 28
survey results identifying recreation demand and THURSTON COUNTY
trends, both statewide and by region; the document Thurston County's Parks Open Space and Trails
was last updated in 2017. These survey results clarify plan was updated in 2020 and included a similar
broader recreation trends and understanding how qualitative approach to Level of Service. Thurston
the County's needs fit into a larger picture. County determined a LOS of 3.0 developed acres per
The SCORP document includes Mason County in 1,000 residents and the per capita LOS as described
the southwest region stretching from Pierce County in the 2020 Park Impact Fee Study. The demand
down the 1-5 corridor to the Oregon state line. from municipalities on county parks, though not
Notably, the SCORP survey identifies the activity quantifiable, is significant; and therefore used the
with the highest participation rate, both regionally entire population of Thurston County to factor into
and statewide, as "walking in a park or trail setting" current estimates. To quote "while LOS provides a
(82% statewide, 86% southwest region). This helpful benchmark for comparison, a community
result holds true across all ages, genders, races, that relies solely on LOS for determining recreation
and incomes. Since the previous survey from RCO needs fails to identify community-specific issues
(2012), walking as a recreational activity has seen such as a facility's quality, or residents' satisfaction
an increase in participation. Boating and swimming with the existing facilities. Therefore, a variety of
have also seen an increase in participation between methods were used to help determine Thurston
2012 and 2017; swimming is now a top 10 activity County's demand and need for parks, open space,
in the state's Southwest region. Other top 10 and trail facilities."
recreation activities in the Southwest region include
nature activities (e.g., visiting rivers, streams, KITSAP COUNTY
beaches; wildlife or nature viewing), attending an Kitsap County's Parks, Recreation and Open Space
outdoor concert or event (e.g., farmer's markets, (PROS) Plan was last updated in 2018 and an update
fairs, sporting events), and day hiking. This PROS is currently underway. This plan does not implement
planning outreach results related to walking/hiking any qualitative metrics; its goals and strategies are
opportunities and nature-based activities are developed using community input to identify areas
consistent with those identified in state surveys. for improvement. The PROS Plan provides a six-year
plan as well as a 20-year vision for Kitsap County's
Comparison of Other County LOS park system
PIERCE COUNTY 5.3.2 Trends
An update of Pierce County's Parks, Recreation
and Open Space Plan was recently completed and Recreational Popularity
adopted in 2020. This plan analyzed several data Recreational popularity is difficult to predict for
points to help focus the needs of the park system future demands and new forms of recreation may
and determine where best to add capacity as rise and fall in popularity across very short time
population grows. These data points include public frames. The State of Washington surveys and
input, recreation trends, demographics, facility documents recreation interests in the Washington
distribution, peer community comparisons, and level State Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Planning
of service targets. The county's LOS targets differ (SCORP) report. This guide, most recently prepared
based on how they defined facility types: in 2018, provides a generalized summary of
• Developed Park Acres: 6.7 acres per 1,000 participation in various activities. Notable to
people this planning effort, and echoed in the Public
• Open Space Acres: 7.5 acres per 1,000 people Involvement section of this report, is the plan's
identification of mobility-based recreation (walking/
• Trail/Walking Path Miles: 0.11 miles per 1,000 running/hiking), organized team sports, and nature-
people based activities all receiving the highest levels of
• Sport Courts and Fields: 0.20 facilities per 1,000 public participation. The fact that Mason County
people does not directly support or fund organized team
• Family Activities: 0.09 facilities per 1,000 people sports or youth recreation programs is a direct
conflict with these statewide trends.
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Chapter 5 1 Demand and Needs Analysis 29
Table 5.4 Service Area Guidelines and Existing Need
DeficiencyNRPA/RCO Mason Parkland(in Acres)
Guideline County LOS* Existing Need
Neighborhood Park 1 acre/1,000 0.33 acres/1,000 12.07 21.7 24.4 7.3 19
Community Park 5 acres/1,000 3 acres/1,000 237.62 197.3 222.0 0 64
Regional Park 5 acres/1,000 3.5 acres/1,000 151.87 230.1 259.0 60 106
Natural Open Space : No Standard 10 Acres/1,000 612.90 657.5 739.9 0 200
Notes: 'See Tables 5.5 through 5.8 for existing levels of service(LOS)
1. 2022=current
2. 2027=six-year planning period
3. 2042=long-term planning horizon
Investments in Park Infrastructure Will Rise Funding Threats and Availability
Across other municipal agencies statewide, Funding for parks and municipal recreation
investment in state and local infrastructure, which services has been forced to into a creative shift as
have been depressed since the Great Recession of municipalities have been forced to seek additional
2008, have been increasing because of increased ways to fund operation and improvements. Long-
revenues from local tax receipts that fund much standing grant and funding assistance programs
of park and recreation infrastructure expenditures, have repeatedly come under threat at both the
such as buildings, restrooms, and roads. federal and state level. Congress let the Land and
Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) expire in 2015
State and local spending is up nearly 10 percent for the first time in 50 years. In response to public
from last year, according to data from the outcry, several members in Congress fought for a
Commerce Department, and spending on capital short-term solution: an emergency authorization
outlays continues to grow. The Commerce of three years. In 2016, Congress had another
Department data also show that spending on opportunity to permanently reauthorize LWCF,
amusement and recreation facilities is up 31 percent thanks to legislation championed by Washington's
from a year ago. It appears that economic conditions own Senator Maria Cantwell in the Energy Bill.
will remain favorable for new investments in park Unfortunately, the House and Senate failed to find
and recreation infrastructure if local and state tax agreement and the Energy Bill was unable to pass.
collections continue to rise and interest rates remain
relatively low. Building on the momentum of the Community Participation
past few years, local and state governments will
make even more park and recreation infrastructure Citizen advisory groups are providing a more
investments in 2019 in buildings, playground significant interaction with park districts, and
equipment, roads and bridges, and capital repairs agencies are working to cultivate relationships
to aging infrastructure, topping the highest level of with citizen advisors. Many of these groups or
infrastructure spending since the recession of 2008. commissions ultimately have been tasked with
helping to find additional dollars from the private
Canines sector to fund capital improvements.
With more than 90 million dogs in the United States
and growing, dog parks are one of the fastest
growing types of parks in the country. Larger dog
parks have become destinations and can contribute
significantly to agency revenues and tourism.
Increasingly, for many, dogs are regarded not just
as part of the family but as children and families,
especially those in the urban environment, are
constantly looking for new places to take Fido.
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Chapter 5 1 Demand and Needs Analysis 30
5.4 Parkland and Open Space Table 5.5 Recommended LOS—Neighborhood Parks
The NRPA definitions of parkland will be used Existing inventory 12.07 acres
in this report which reflects the definitions Existing number of sites 3 sites
used in the November 2010 RCO Statewide LOS Existing LOS 0.19 acres/1,000 population
Recommendations Report. Table 5.4 provides a Recommended LOS 0.33 acres/1,000 population
summary of the defined parkland inventory and
the existing need, which is detailed in the following
sections. Demand and Need
Mason County has a current LOS that provides
5.4.1 Neighborhood Parks neighborhood park benefit to three communities.
Neighborhood parks are typically developed on a Existing and recommended LOS for neighborhood
County-wide basis, located near residents to provide parks can be found in Table 5.5.
an important and convenient access to visit a park in To meet the LOS standard of 0.33 acres/1,000
localized neighborhoods. population at Mason County's current population
Neighborhood parks are not as efficient to maintain of 65,750, the County would need to have 21.7
and operate as larger community parks. However, acres of neighborhood park lands. With the existing
they can be maintained by volunteers or local non- inventory of 12.07 acres, that equates to a current
profit community groups. deficit of 9.6 acres.
By the end of the six-year planning period (2027),
the County would need to have 24.4 acres of
Mason County has three neighborhood park: neighborhood park lands —with the existing
comprising 12.07 acres. inventory, that equates to a deficit of 12.3 acres.
By the end of the 20-year long-range planning
horizon (2042), the County would need to have 28.4
There are three neighborhood parks consisting of acres of neighborhood park lands—with the existing
12.07 acres in the Mason County planning area: inventory, that equates to a deficit of 16.4 acres.
• Foothills Park For the County, as the population grows, the value
• Hunter Park of neighborhood parks added along pathways and
• Union Park trail access points or as entrances to natural open
space areas may become a more effective option to
Service Area providing neighporhood parks. Foothills Park is an
The acceptable service area for neighborhood parks example of a neighborhood park located in an area
is a 1/2-mile to 1-mile radius from local residents. that provides benefit to the local neighborhoods.
Mason County has a 1-mile service area for Three additional sites could be added that serve as
Neighborhood Parks. trail or natural open space entrance or access sites.
Trends Observations
• The neighborhood parks located near residents • Relying on General Fund tax-supported funding
provide the opportunity to get outside, be is potentially not sustainable into the future.
active and play at a park that is within close • The three neighborhood parks are spread
proximity to their homes. all over the County and require costly travel
• In some localized areas throughout the County time for maintenance. These parks should
a neighborhood park or playground site is be maintained through local non-profit
popular as they are relatively inexpensive to or community support or neighborhood
build and can serve specific communities. associations.
• However, on a per acre basis, neighborhood ' Neighborhood parks can serve as connection
parks are very expensive to maintain and sites for residents using public transportation
provide limited services, especially if they are through the Mason County Transit system to
located within an area that lacks easy access. regional locations.
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Chapter 5 1 Demand and Needs Analysis 31
5.4.2 Community Parks Mason County has a combined total of some 350
Mason County community parks provide fairly even miles of shoreline and in excess of 100 freshwater
coverage throughout the County. There continue to lakes. While blessed with an abundance of land that
be a few gaps, including the western and northern fronts both fresh and saltwater, public access to this
portions of the County, which are currently served shoreline is limited due to physical constraints and
by neighborhood parks. Community parks are private property restrictions.
generally smaller than 20 acres (although Truman Because survey results identified public access
Glick Park is 35 acres) and provide a variety of to shorelines and water as a priority, strategies
amenities that make them popular. Historically, many to increase this access should be pursued. Those
of the types of park features typically requested by strategies may include:
the public are found in a standard community park.
These include picnic facilities, passive areas, sports • The purchase of waterfront properties
fields, walking paths, boat launches, and fishing • The purchase of easements or licenses
opportunities. Community parks are generally very • The conversion of road ends with limited park
popular, experience moderate to high use, and are development that provide water access from
generally maintenance-friendly. In Mason County, public rights-of-way road ends to park sites
community parks provide parking, restrooms, • Acquisition through transfer or exchange of
picnicking areas, play areas, and in a number of properties
cases, waterfront access and boat launches. • Acceptance of donations
- • Creation of partnerships with non-profit
Mason County has 11 community parks organizations to acquire property and facilitate
shoreline and water access
comprising 23Z62 acres. • Acquisition of access as a condition of
development approval
There are eleven community parks consisting of
237.62 acres in the Mason County planning area: Trends
• Kansas State University researcher Andrew
• Coulter Creek Kaczynski's research shows children living
• Harvey Rendsland Park within a half-mile of a park or playground
• Jacoby/Shorecrest Park were five times more likely to be a healthy
• Latimer's Landing Boat Launch and Park weight, rather than overweight, as compared
• Mason Lake Park to children who didn't have a park with a
• Menards Landing playground nearby.
• Phillips Lake Park • Community parks provide a wider range of
• Sunset Bluff Park opportunities for activities and serve a larger
• Truman Glick Park multi-service area in many communities.
• Union Boat Ramp
• Walker Park • As population density increases, community
parks will serve residents with a variety of
Service Area functions, which include organized active
recreation, spectator events and passive
The community park service area is recommended recreational opportunities.
at between 1-3 mile radius. The GIS service area • It is known that youth need to have greater
mapping depicts the County service area of 5-miles opportunities to experience the outdoors and
for community parks. The GIS map shows that the research has shown that kids are spending less
southern central part of the County is currently not time outdoors than they did 20 years ago.
being served by County/community park function, . The Centers for Disease Control recommends
but this area also includes the Shelton Metropolitan that children and adolescents participate in at
District with local park service areas. least 60 minutes of moderate intensity physical
activity most days of the week.
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Chapter 5 1 Demand and Needs Analysis 32
Table 5.6 Recommended LOS-Community Parks
Existing inventory 237.62 acres
Existing number of sites 11 sites
Existing LOS 3.6 acres/1,000 population
Recommended LOS 3.0 acres/1,000 population
s
Demand and Need
The existing and recommended LOS for community
parks is shown in Table 5.6. To meet the
recommended LOS of 3.0 acres/1,000 population,
Mason County needs a total of 197.3 acres of
community park lands. With the existing inventory
of 237.62 acres, the County currently has a surplus of
40.4 acres. Coulter Creek
By the end of the six-year planning period (2027),
the County would need to have 222.0 acres of • Planning for multi-use paths and trails, and
community park lands—with the existing inventory, other fitness-related facilities.
that equates to a surplus of 15.6 acres.
• Developing master site plans for selected
By the end of the 20-year long-range planning community parks.
horizon (2042), the County would need to have 258.4
acres of community park lands—with the existing Geographically there is the need for a community
inventory, that equates to a deficit of 20.8 acres. park in the southwest area of the County, preferably
with freshwater access. One park would be sufficient
Observations in the southwest area of the County due to its
population density, even though the five- to ten-
Identifying the need for four additional community mile radius analysis could support two sites in that
parks is one benefit resulting from planning analysis, area. No County parks are located in the general
community input, and survey results. Other benefits area of Star Lake, Lost Lake, Lake Harvey, or Lake
include: Nahwatzel and Cloquallum Road where another
• Filling gaps in existing levels of service. park could be located.
• Planning for park acquisition or development Future park locations to address need could include
that provides water access or swimming. partnering with Green Diamond Resources to
• Designing areas for new community parks that acquire property in the area of Lake Nahwatzel and
emphasize active use, fields, sports courts, working with Washington State Parks to acquire
picnicking, and open grass fields. property that the Parks and Recreation Commission
may decide is surplus or donate Lake Isabella.
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Chapter 5 1 Demand and Needs Analysis 33
5.4.3 Regional Parks Another regionally significant private-nonprofit site
Regional parks provide outdoor recreation facilities is the South Mason Soccer Park which was built and
with regional significance. They are generally over is maintained by the South Mason Youth Soccer
200 acres and can serve several communities Club. It is 10.4 acres with six soccer fields. There
with natural habitat sites and outdoor recreation is a mod-field area for small side games. SMSP is
opportunities. Facilities at regional parks can include not included in the County LOS calculations, but is
recreation sport facilities, boating, camping, water referenced as a significant regional facility to meet
the demand and need for recreational soccer use.
access, and trail use. The North Mason area is also in need of additional
Mason County has three regional parks totaling soccer facilities. Currently soccer is plated using
151.87 acres within the planning area: modified fields on North Mason school facilities.
• Mason County Recreation Area Service Area
• Oakland Bay County Park
• Sandhill County Park Regional parks provide a variety of recreation
amenities and are located within a 15-mile radius
The Mason County Recreation Area (MCRA) has or within one hour driving time to most residents.
seven baseball-softball fields used for multiple Regional parks attract citizens and visitors from a
use and adult ball leagues. Shelton High School regional service area. In Mason County, the service
uses these fields and over the season various area for regional parks has been established as a
tournaments are scheduled throughout the summer. 15-mile radius around the park site and, in many
The Oakland Bay Regional Park is 81.87 acres cases, beyond.
and was purchased in 2005 in cooperation with Trends
the Capital Land Trust. Through matching RCO
grants, the park has been developed with passive • Counties are primary providers of community
recreation, wildlife viewing areas, environmental and regional parks which are more efficient to
education and interpretation, and recreational trails. maintain on a per-acre basis than the smaller
The access road improvements provide an improved neighborhood parks.
park entry road with a staging area, bus turnaround, . Increased cost for vehicle travel and long auto
and sanitary facilities. Oakland Bay is listed on trips will create a demand for local regional
the Washington Water Trails Association points of park opportunities that provide less travel and
interest for water access. localized access to regional facilities and trails.
Demand and Need
Mason County has three regional parks Public input revealed existing and future needs
comprising 151.87 acres. by respondents. These include trails, paths, water
access, swimming areas, sports fields, and even a
shooting range. The regional parkland inventory
Oakland Bay Park has been a focal point for today is below the former acreage recommendation
volunteer partnerships for restoration and site of 3.5 acres per 1,000 population (LOS 3.5/1,000). To
improvements from the Mason County 4-H, the meet this identified need, the County could acquire
Shelton and Pioneer School Districts, the Squaxin property suitable for the development of a regional
Tribe, Cascade Land Conservancy, Audubon Society, park by purchasing it, by transferring from another
and the South Puget Sound Salmon Enhancement government agency, or by partnering with local
Group. The historic homestead has an old home private interests.
built in the 1890s. In 2012, this site was listed on
the Washington Heritage of Registered Historic
Places. A conservation easement with the Capical Table 5.7 Recommended LOS-Regional Parks
Land Trust limits further development in the park. Existing inventory 151.87 acres
The conservation easement defines buffer zones
along Oakland Bay and Malaney Creek to facilitate Existing number of sites 3 sites
environmental protection of the park. Existing LOS 2.3 acres / 1,000 population
Recommended LOS 3.5 acres/1,000 population
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Chapter 5 1 Demand and Needs Analysis 34
As most of the waterfront areas, whether saltwater Mason County, which is a rural area, is fortunate
or freshwater, are already developed, finding to have an abundance of natural areas and open
affordable and suitable land for a regional park may space. Currently, in addition to inventory owned
prove to be challenging. One possible option would by the County, there is a significant quantity of
be to begin discussions with Washington State natural areas and open space owned by Washington
Parks regarding selected undeveloped state parks State Parks, the Department of Natural Resources
in Mason County or current existing parks such as (Tahuya State Forest), the National Park Service
Schafer State Park or Lake Isabella. (Olympic National Park), and the US Department
The existing and recommended LOS for of Agriculture (Olympic National Forest). Green
Diamond Resources and the Manke Company are
community parks is shown in Table 5.7. To meet the owners of private natural areas, a large portion of
recommended LOS of 3.5 acres/1,000 population, which are managed for timber resources. The Theler
Mason County needs a total of 230.1 acres of Wetlands and associated Salmon Center near Belfair
regional park lands. With the existing inventory of are also a very popular destination of statewide
151.87 acres, that equates to a current deficit of 78.3 significance.
acres.
By the end of the six-year planning period (2027),
the County would need to have 259.0 acres of Mason County has four natural open space
regional park lands —with the existing inventory, areas comprising 612.9 acres.
that equates to a deficit of 107.1 acres.
By the end of the 20-year long-range planning
horizon (2042), the County would need to have 301.5 Washington State Parks has several tracts of land
acres of community park lands—with the existing that provide significant open space, including
inventory, that equates to a deficit of 149.E acres. Harsine Island (310 acres), Hope Island (106 acres),
and Lakd Isabella (193 acres), and are currently
This additional parkland could provide a needed studying the long-range plans and use for some of
regional park site inclusive of the amenities desired their parks and natural areas.
by County residents. The park would serve the entire
County and would enhance recreation opportunities Service Area
for County residents and visitors. The NRPA guidelines do not specifically define the
service area for natural open space parks. These
5.4.4 Natural Open Space sites provide opportunities to preserve and protect
Mason County recognizes that natural areas and natural areas that have unique natural features or
open space are a vital component of the health historical significance, as well as provide habitat
and well-being of the County and provide natural areas that need to have protection and preservation
resources for habitat protection. Preserving and with the need for minimal improvements. Natural
protecting these properties is essential to retaining open space parks provide benefit and value to
the abundance of recreational opportunities in the entire County and active recreational use is
the region. Mason County desires to work with minimized and secondary to the protection and
interested organizations to achieve this goal. preservation of natural features. Trails, wildlife
The County can also partner with non-profit viewing, and education are the primary recreational
organizations such as the Trust for Public Land, the opportunities in natural open space parks.
Conservation District, and Capital Land Trust to
retain natural areas and open space. Trends
Currently, Mason County owns and manages four • Research continues to confirm that well-tended
sites as natural open space: natural resources attract businesses.
• Using parks, greenways and trails to connect
• Decker Creek to each other and to natural, recreational and
• Foothills Park heritage assets are discovering new economic
• Harstine Island Park development and revitalization opportunities.
• Watson Wildwood Park • Key to the creation and implementation of a
plan is the identification of natural spaces for
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Chapter 5 1 Demand and Needs Analysis 35
trails and to list trail linkages throughout the Table 5.8 Recommended LOS-Natural Open Space
County.
Regulatory laws regarding natural open space Existing inventory 612.9 acres
• areas and habitat protection are guided by Existing number of sites 4 sites
the National Environmental Policy Act, the Existing LOS 9.4 acres / 1,000 population
Endangered Species Act, the Clean Water Act, Recommended LOS 10 acres/1,000 population
the Federal Land Policy and Management Act,
the National Forest Management Act, and
the Northwest Forest Plan. While there are Observations
additional regulatory laws, these provide some • Mason County's inventory of natural areas and
idea of the regulatory climate. open space should continue to increase over
• Partnerships with organizations such as the the next six years to meet the County's needs.
Capital Land Trust, the Trust for Public Lands, • It is recommended that the County continue to
and the Conservation District will continue to work to procure natural areas and open space
be very important for Mason County to acquire to preserve environmentally sensitive areas (e.g.
and preserve natural open space in the future. hillsides, riparian areas, common hiking and
access areas with trails, waterfront property) to
Demand and Need retain its rural character.
Mason County is expected to grow over the next ' Collaboration with adjoining private enterprise,
20 years, so it is important to preserve the rural public agencies, and private non-profit
character of the County to the greatest degree conservation trusts will be instrumental to
possible. The County currently owns 612.9 acres maintaining and increasing natural areas,
of natural areas and open space, which equates to open space, wildlife habitats, and corridor
a current demand standard of 9.4 acres per 1,000 connections to state and federal lands in
population. Mason County.
• The County should also pursue state and
The existing and recommended LOS for open space federal matching grants in partnership with
is shown in Table 5.8. To meet the recommended public and private parties to preserve and
LOS of 10 acres/1,000 population, Mason County secure natural areas and open spaces.
needs a total of 657.5 acres of open space lands. . Approve Conservation Futures property tax levy
With the existing inventory of 612.9 acres, that to provide a reliable and predictable source of
equates to a current deficit of 44.6 acres. funds to help acquire interests in open space,
By the end of the six-year planning period (2027), habitat areas, wetlands, farm, agricultural and
the County would need to have 739.9 acres of timberlands for conservation. A portion of
open space lands-with the existing inventory, that the tax levy can be dedicated to the cost of
equates to a deficit of 127.0 acres. maintaining and operating the properties.
By the end of the 20-year long-range planning
horizon (2042), the County would need to have
861.5 acres of open space lands-with the existing
inventory, that equates to a deficit of 248.6 acres.
The County may acquire additional natural areas
and open space land through partnerships or
property transfers. Some of this property may even
be appropriate for development of trail corridors, as
Mason County does not currently own any suitable
land options for regional trails. These trail corridors
could provide linkages between parks or facilities.
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Chapter 5 1 Demand and Needs Analysis 36
5.5 Recreation Facilities Table 5.9 Existing Sports Fields in Mason County
On the following pages, specific needs for recreation Inventory(Number of Sites)
facilities are presented. The assessed need reflects Mason SheitonISchoolsl
existing inventory, public input, and priority interest Facility Type County Private Total
from national or state trends. Baseball fields 2 2 4
The categories of recreation facilities include: Softball/
baseball fields 12 7 19
• Sports Fields
• Trails Soccer fields 0 15 15
• Children's Play Areas
• Other Recreation Facilities Service Area
• Shooting Sports The recommended NRPA service area guidelines
•
Boat Ramps and Docks for sports fields is a one-mile radius for residents
around the sports fields (County, school, and
• Group Picnic Areas private).
• Basketball Courts/Outdoor Sports Pads
Establishing the recreation facility needs was Trends
determined through several analytical approaches, • Team and individual sports are popular at the
including public input through the questionnaire statewide level.
survey, comments received at community . Children participating in active lifestyles
workshops and input of the Parks and Trails outside of a team are more likely to end up
Advisory Board. participating in team sports at some point in
their life as there is a correlation to general
5.5.1 Sports Fields physical fitness and an enjoyment of any type
Sports fields with competitive play generally require of play centered around physical motion/
more staff time and a higher level of maintenance activity, and part is a result of exposure to a
than other facilities, especially during the playing diverse mix of activities.
season. The placement of synthetic turf on the • By being physically active on a regular basis,
infields at MCRA has diminished maintenance costs playing sports such as soccer, youth may
and increased playability of the fields during wet be able to avoid or delay health problems
weather conditions. The baseball fields are used associated with obesity and related conditions.
for play ranging from Little League Baseball (60-ft.
bases) to full size baseball fields (90-ft. bases). If Demand and Need
a field was not sufficient for organized practice or The demand standard applicable to this plan
game play, the field was not included in the current requires that a team should have sufficient field
inventory. Softball fields include adult softball fields space to play games and practices each week.
and fields used for competitive girls' fastpitch or Based on the current inventory, sports fields appear
softball leagues. to be adequate but this will not be sustained into
Mason County does not have soccer fields, but the future. This is especially true since the recent
works cooperatively with local school districts and placement of all-weather synthetic turf at two of
the private non-profit soccer association in the the MCRA fields and renovations at Sandhill County
provision of soccer play throughout the County'. Park. These renovations provide consistent and
increased play on the fields.
Table 5.9 lists the inventory of sports fields for The existing and recommended LOS for sports
Mason County, the City of Shelton, area school fields is shown in Table 5.10. For baseball fields, to
districts and private nonprofits. meet the recommended LOS of 1 field per 5,000
population, Mason County needs a total of 13
1 Shelton and North Mason High Schools,Pioneer and Hawkins Middle Schools,and Shelton Youth Soccer Club Association.
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Chapter 5 1 Demand and Needs Analysis 37
Table 5.10 Recommended LOS—Sports Fields With regard to soccer fields, the recommended
LOS is 1 field per 10,000 population. With the
Baseball Softball/ existing inventory of 15 fields, the County currently
Baseball has 8 more fields than needed to meed the
Existing number 4 19 15 recommended LOS— so no additional fields are
of facilities currently needed. By 2027, the County will still
0.30/5,000 1.44/5,000 2.28/10,000 have 7 more fields than needed, and by 2042 the
Existing LOS population population population County will still have 6 more fields than needed, if
basing this determination solely on a population
Recommended 1/5,000 1/5,000 1/10,000 basis. However, the existing soccer fields are largely
LOS population population population concentrated in the southern end of the County;
on a geographic basis, the need for soccer fields in
baseball fields. With the existing inventory of 4 north Mason County remains.
fields, that equates to a current deficit of 9 baseball
fields. Observations
By the end of the six-year planning period (2027), • Youth leagues are continuing to grow, thus
the County would need to have a total of 15 increasing demand for practice space and fields
baseball fields; with the existing inventory, that suitable for games.
equates to a deficit of 11 fields. By the end of the • Youth leagues are struggling throughout the
20-year long-range planning horizon (2042), the County with limited resources and growing
County would need to have 17 baseball fields; with demand.
the existing inventory, that equates to a deficit of 13 . Local schools may have existing fields that
fields. could be improved to an acceptable standard
For softball/baseball fields, the recommended LOS or land that could be developed for new fields.
is 1 field per 5,000 population. With the existing • Based on available information, there will be
inventory of 19 fields, the County currently has 6 more demand as the County continues to grow.
more fields than needed to meet the recommended • One option is investigating the installation
LOS— so no additional fields are currently needed. of sports field lighting on existing fields to
By the end of the six-year planning period (2027), increase use, especially in the fall season.
the County will still have 4 more fields than needed, . The Youth Soccer Association currently
and by the end of the 20-year long-range planning provides the soccer needs for the county. If the
horizon (2042), the County will still have 2 more Association discontinues providing soccer, the
fields than needed. demand and need will have to be addressed by
Mason County Parks or a future not for profit
sports association.
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Chapter 5 1 Demand and Needs Analysis 38
5.5.2 Trails with dirt, gravel, or chipped wood surface. Trail use
In 2008, the Mason County Parks and Trails depends on the site, but would primarily be non-
Advisory Board worked with the Department of motorized. The current inventories of local trails are
Community Development and completed the Mason listed below, as well as opportunities for potential
County Regional Trails Plan. This plan developed development of local trails in existing County parks:
policies and general guidelines relating to trails, Existing
and identified actual trails for development with
recommended potential trail routes, corridors, and • Truman Glick Park (1 mile)
on-ground trail standards. There are various types • Oakland Bay Park (1.5 miles)
of trails available for public use. These include • Coulter Creek (3/a mile)
significant regional trails, multiple-use trails, local
trails, bike routes, and water trails, all of which are potential Development
available at some level of use and development . Foothills Park (create connection to State Parks
throughout Mason County. Hoodsport Trail)
Significant regional trails in Mason County include . Harvey Rendsland Park
the Department of Natural Resources Tahuya State
Forest Trails, the Theler Wetlands Trail in Belfair, the ' Sunset Bluff
Port of Hoodsport (former State Park) Trails, and ' Watson Wildwood Park
Olympic Nationsl Forest and Park trailhead access • Mason Lake Park
points. Favorite bicycle routes to ride in Mason County
Multiple-use regional trails are generally non- include the Harstine Island Loop (9.4 miles), the
motorized and serve bicyclists, walkers,joggers, Mason Lake Loop (24 miles), and the Skokomish
skaters, equestrians, and even cross-country skiers Valley Road (11 miles), the Kamilche- Bloomfield-Old
and snowshoers depending on the trail surfacing. In Olympic Highway Loop (12 miles) and the Grapeview
the case of Mason County, possible trail connections Loop Road (7.8 miles).
to communities, parks, points of interest, Water trails are becoming increasingly popular,
neighboring counties, the Olympic National Forest, and access to and from the water is critical to their
and Olympic National Park should be investigated. development. You can put your canoe or kayak in at
Listed below are suggested multi-use regional trails various Mason County Parks along the Washington
that were included as options for future trails in the Water Trails route. Access points are available
2021 Parks and Trails Survey: at Walker Park, Jacoby/Shorecrest, Oakland Bay
• Shelton to Belfair Trail Park, Union Boat Launch, Latimer's Landing, Allyn
• Shelton to MCRA Park Trail Waterfront and Menards Landing to name a few.
Mason County has developed policies for various
• North Bay Trail —Allyn to tip of Case Inlet parks that allow water trail users and, at some sites,
• Mason Lake Park to Twanoh State Park the option of camping overnight with prior approval
• Kennedy Creek Salmon Trail Extension from the Parks and Trails Department. The County
• Camp Govey Trail should work cooperatively with organizations like
• Menards Landing to Harvey Rendsland Park the Washington Water Trails Association (WWTA)l
Trail to develop additional safe water access points
along Mason County shorelines for non-motorized
Currently, the County has a very small inventory watercraft.
of local trails. Local trails are categorized as
trails that are developed primarily within County In terms of maintenance, trails do not require
park properties or do not have any geographic the intensive maintenance that sports complexes
connections in common with regional trails. Local and active recreation sites require. There is
trails are generally single or double track trails still maintenance required; therefore, forming
partnerships with other governments, organizations,
1 WWTP's Cascadia Marine Trail is one of the premier water trails for non-motorized boaters in the United States.The water trail covers over 140 miles and
extends the length and width of Puget Sound,from the state capital in Olympia to the Canadian Border.Suitable for day or multi-day trips,the Cascadia Marine
Trail has 66 campsites and 160 day-use sites to visit. People can boat to the campsites from many public and private launch sites and shoreline trailheads.
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Chapter 5 1 Demand and Needs Analysis 39
and non-profit groups helps defray maintenance Table 5.11 Recommended LOS—Trails
and development costs.
Existing inventory N/A
Service Area Existing LOS N/A
Regional trails and multiple-use trails have the same Recommended LOS 0.5 miles/1,000 population
service area as that of regional parks (a 15-mile
radius). They serve the entire County and also draw has a current deficiency of 28 miles of regional trails
users from outside of the County. Following the and a future need for 38 miles by 2027 and 45 miles
demand standards established for community parks, by 2042.
local trails should be located within a 5-mile service
area, but also draw users from the entirety of the The adopted Mason County Regional Trails Plan
County. provides the guidelines and policies to develop
trails in Mason County. The development and
Trends implementation of a comprehensive Regional
Trails Plan will be vital as growth demands affect
• Trails lead to a fit community: With the the potential level of need for trails. The Trails
emphasis on health and fitness in today's Plan also serves to provide opportunities for
society, trails are becoming just as important as funding partnerships to complete the trails needed
streets and sidewalks in our communities. throughout the County.
• There is an interest in developing trails in
existing County parks, county-owned property, Observations
and on privately-owned lands. • Citizens through the community input stressed
• The community questionnaire stressed that it is a high importance of trail development
a "priority to unify the County with a path" primarily for exercise/recreation and to provide
the opportunities for recreation. Therefore,
Demand and Need trails are a high priority and the development
Mason County currently does not have demand of and funding for trails Countywide needs to
standards for multi-use regional trails, as these be continued over the next planning period.
types of trails have not yet been developed. A • Securing matching grant funds is an
demand standard of 0.5 miles per 1,000 population opportunity to match local dedicated funds to
is recommended in this plan. This translates to a provide trail needs.
total of 38 miles of trail that would be needed to • As described there are a variety of types of
meet the anticipated population demand in 2027 trails, including natural trails, water trails, multi-
and beyond. use trails, bicycle trails for off-road and shared
This recommended demand standard was use with vehicles. Different types of trails have
determined by averaging the regional trail varying costs for development. The natural
standards for Skagit and Jefferson Counties and and soft-surface trails are less expensive,
the anticipated number of miles to establish an whereas the fully developed shared-use paths
adequate regional trail system in Mason County. along public roads and highways cost more to
Applying this standard to the current (2021) develop using defined highway development
population estimate of 65,750 indicates the County standards.
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Chapter 5 1 Demand and Needs Analysis 40
5.5.3 Children's Play Areas Table 5.13 Recommended LOS-Play Areas
Children's playground equipment is maintained Existing inventory 5
under the Playground Safety Standards with Existing LOS 0.08 / 1,000 population
guidelines from the American Society of Testing Recommended LOS 0.33/1,000 population
Materials and the Consumer Product Safety
Commission. Mason County park maintenance
staff is trained and certified under the National Trends
Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) National . Low-income families generally have less access
Playground Safety Training Program. Playground to opportunities for physical activity. At the
equipment must be inspected regularly for same time, many low-income rural communities
safety issues, making sure that each playground lack access to sidewalks, parks and recreation
meets current safety standards and meets the facilities; all are possible barriers to leisure time
requirements of the Americans with Disability Act physical activity.
(ADA) for access. In Mason County, the continued
priority should be renovating and/or replacing • 1 of 3 children is obese or overweight before
playgrounds at existing play areas to meet current their 5th birthday. Obesity now affects 17% of
standards. Mason County Parks currently has all children and adolescents in the United States
playground equipment located at five County park —triple the rate from just one generation ago.
facilities (Table 5.12). • The Outdoor Industry Association (outdoor
product providers) continues to advocate for
Table 5.12 Existing Play Areas in Mason County communities in which all kids have places to
play within walking distance from their homes.
Location Number of Demand and Need
MCRA 1 Playground The County currently has a demand standard of 0.33
walker Park 1 Playground per 1,000 population, which reflects the Recreation
Union Park 1 Playground and Conservation Office (RCO) recommended
standard. Using the current inventory of five play
Foothills Park 1 Playground areas and the population of 65,750 residents,
Truman Glick Park 1 Playground the current ratio would be 1 play area per 13,150
Total Play Areas 5 population, or 0.08 per 1,000 population. Applying
the current standard to the current population
indicates the County should have 22 play areas, a
Service Area current shortfall of 17. Since Mason County currently
owns 21 parks, this standard would appear to be
The service area for children's play areas is the same unreasonably high, as not all of the parks have
as that of a neighborhood park, or a 1/2-mile to appropriate space for play areas. Adjustment of
1-mile radius from local residents. this standard or partnerships with local community
organizations or school districts could provide
for the retention of the demand standard for
playgrounds countywide.
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Chapter 5 1 Demand and Needs Analysis 41
5.5.4 Other Recreation Facilities that they were likely to use boater access through
the use of a ramp or by way of a hand launch.
Shooting Sports The community workshop pointed out the need
Mason County Parks does not have a shooting for an improved County boat launch at Jacoby/
range within their system but there are two ranges Shorecrest Park and in Union. They also stated that
in Mason County. The Bremerton Trap and Skeet access is important as there is an "increased need
Club is located north of Belfair across from the for kayaking". Opportunities to secure and develop
Kitsap Airport and the Mason County Sportsmen's access to public waterfront points for public use for
Association range is located in Shelton at the boating, swimming and fishing will remain of vital
Business Park. The student community workshop importance.
stressed the need for a "shooting range" and
opportunities for "competition in shooting events/ Group Picnic Areas
programs." An outdoor shooting range (Q-18a) in
the open ended question was listed most often as Mason County Parks provides three sites with picnic
an identified need. In Q-16 & 17 "shooting sports shelters and eleven places for the public to picnic
(archery, rifle, pistol)" ranked 6th out of 28 choices with family and friends. Simple picnic shelters create
of currently involved in and 4th out of 29 of those opportunities for shared-use with pedestrians and
that respondents would desire to participate in. bicyclists or serve as a trailhead point of entrance
In the community questionnaire, shooting sports for hikers and wildlife viewing areas. They can serve
and hunting rank higher compared to other a dual purpose as interpretive centers or a waypoint
communities. Shooting/archery range ranked 1st that extends a children's play area. Group picnic
when asked (Q-9) what special facilities should be shelters can provide opportunities for groups to rent
added to the park system (34%). Most recently a facility for a gathering and can provide a revenue
as a recreational activity, there has been a wave return that helps offset maintenance costs at rural
of interest in archery in the rural states in the or larger community or regional park sites. 31% of
northwest.18 Archery skills is an interest project the responses when asked what additional facilities
for Girl Scouts Skill Building and youth camps are needed in the community questionnaire (Q-8)
and ranges have see a recent up-tick of interest indicated that basic park features (play areas, picnic
in archery. Study of the feasibility of creating or areas, etc) were most needed.
partnering to provide increased opportunities for Partnerships with local service organizations, the
shooting sports should be of focus over the next Boy Scouts of America, or specialized work crews
planning period. The Recreation and Conservation can help fund the cost of the construction of
Office offers grants funds for development and additional sites located throughout the countywide
operation ranges under the Firearms and Archery park system. Looking for future locations and
Range Recreation Program (FARR). project sites should be of importance over the next
planning period. Suggested locations for shelters
Boat Launches are Harvey Rendsland Jiggs Lake Park, Mason Lake
Currently there are four boat launches and six hand- Park and at Sunset Bluff.
carry boat launch sites managed throughout Mason
County by the County parks system. Based on the Basketball Courts/Outdoor Sports Pads
needs assessment, public input and the Currently Mason County Parks has three basketball
Mason County Shoreline Master Plan, water courts within the park system located at various
access continues to be of critical importance to park sites. Basketball courts or the placement of
Mason County. Water access facilities (boat ramps, an outdoor pad are of value for resident that are
piers, beaches, etc) ranked 2nd in the community located within the radius of need for neighborhood
questionnaire (Q-8) as what respondents thought parks (within a '/z-mile to 1-mile radius) or
were the needed facilities in the Mason County Park community parks (1-3 mile radius). When asked
system (38%).The need for water access will continue what additional facilities were needed (Q-8) 31%
to be one of the highest priorities countywide over of the responses indicated that basic park features
the next 15 to 20 years. Nearly 40% of respondents (play areas, picnic areas, etc) were needed. The
in the community questionnaire (Q-10) indicated community workshops pointed out that "youth
sports have decreased because of family needs and
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Chapter 5 1 Demand and Needs Analysis 42
the downturn in the economy." The basic basketball
court pad and hoop provide the opportunity for
citizens to enjoy a friendly game of basketball. On
a national scale, interest in basketball has remained
somewhat constant for the last 20 years.
When the need for additional neighborhood,
community or regional parks is anticipated, designs
that include a basketball court or pad would be
recommended to meet the identified need.
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Chapter 5 1 Demand and Needs Analysis 43
ti
fh j
ChapterRECOMMENDATIONS AND
PRIORITIZATION
•
AL
This chapter of the PROST Plan discusses a summary 6.1.1 Neighborhood Parks
of the recommendations for parks and facilities
for managing and implementation, in order to Assessed Need
accomplish the outcomes, guidelines and standards Based on the demand and needs analysis in Chapter
adopted in this plan. 5, an additional 9.6 acres of neighborhood parks will
Recommendations are listed in the following be needed by 2027, for a total of 21.7 acres. By 2042,
categories: the additional need will increase to 16.4 acres, for a
total of 28.4 acres of neighborhood parks.
• Parkland and Natural Open Space
Based on the average size of a neighborhood
• Recreation Facilities park— approximately 2 to 5 acres—two additional
• Administration, Operations and Maintenance neighborhood park sites are recommended for
acquisition by 2027, and up to a total of nine
6.1 Parkland and Natural Open additional sites by 2042.
Space Recommendations
The ideal park system is made up of various types • Based on the geographic distribution of
of parks and facilities to serve the community, existing parks, neighborhood parks are most
as discussed in Chapter 5. Each type serves a needed in the northern and southwestern areas
basic function, but collectively the entire system of Mason County. Land for the two additional
serves the needs of the County. Knowing the neighborhood parks needed by 2027 could be
interconnection, Mason County can develop an acquired in the locations listed in Table 6.1.
efficient and cost effective park system that meets . In the longer term (over the 20-year planning
most of the needs for the citizens. Also by providing horizon), seek to develop neighborhood parks
design standards for each park type it helps to easily in the following geographic areas to meet the
understand how the park is developed, maintained future demand:
and used.
• Allyn area
Attaining the basic system of parklands provides for • Star Lake area
neighborhood and community parks with regional
and natural open space park sites. It is achieved by Timberlands area
addressing the need of new site acquisitions and/ Table 6.1 Neighborhood Park Recommendations
or expanding and modifying existing parks and
facilities.
Future Need Location Acreage
Northern UGA Allyn Waterfront 5.00
North Mason County Belfair 5.00
Southwest Area Star Lake 5.00
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Chapter 6 1 Recommendations and Prioritization 44
• Lake Limerick area community parks could be acquired in the
• Mason Lake locations listed in Table 6.2.
• Belfair area • The largest deficit is located in the west and
• Hoodsport southwest section of Mason County.
• Tahuya Peninsula • Securing a possible future park near Star Lake,
• Victor area Lost Lake, Lake Nahwatzel, or Cloquallum Road
would address the community park need.
• A park that provides swimming access would be
Implementation Policies most beneficial, addressing both the acreage
SITE SELECTION CRITERIA deficit and the need for water access.
Neighborhood parks in Mason County serve a Table 6.2 Neighborhood Park Recommendations
1-mile service area. If at all possible it should
be easy access to local roads. Optimum size for
neighborhood parks is not less than five acres, Future Need Location
with flat usable areas located central to the West Mason County Schafer State Park 15.00
neighborhood service area.
Southwest Mason Lake Isabella 15.00
DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT County
RECOMMENDATIONS North Mason County Acquire/water 15.00
Facilities that are appropriate to neighborhood parks access
include playgrounds, open play areas, basketball and
tennis courts, picnic areas and shelters, trails and Implementation Policies
trail connectors.
SITE SELECTION CRITERIA
SUMMARY OF RECOMMENDATIONS Geographically there is the need for a community
• Three additional sites could be added that park in the southwest area of the County, preferably
serve as trail or natural open space entrance or with freshwater access. One park would be sufficient
access sites. in the southwest area of the County due to its
• Continue to work with public or private population density, even though the five- to ten-
landowners to provide land or locations mile radius analysis could support two sites in that
to meet the future need for three more area.
neighborhood parks by 2027. Future park locations to address need could include
partnering with Green Diamond Resources to
6.1.2 Community Parks acquire property on Lake Nahwatzel and working
with Washington State Parks to acquire property
Assessed Need that the Parks and Recreation Commission may
Based on the demand and needs analysis in Chapter decide is surplus.
5, no additional community parks acreage will
be needed by 2027. By 2042, an additional 20.8 DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT
acres will be needed, for a total of 258.4 acres of RECOMMENDATIONS
community parks. Facilities that are appropriate to Community parks
Based on the average size of a community park— include development of water access for boating
approximately 15-17 acres—one to two additional and swimming. They provide opportunities for
community park sites are recommended for facilities such as BMX tracks, a skatepark, swimming
acquisition by 2042. facilities and performing arts venues.
Recommendations SUMMARY OF RECOMMENDATIONS
• Develop community parks in underserved areas • Filling gaps in existing levels of service.
to meet the future demand. Land for additional • Planning for park acquisition or development
that provides water access or swimming.
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Chapter 6 1 Recommendations and Prioritization 45
• Designing areas for new community parks that value of regional parks is that they serve the entire
emphasize active use, fields, sports courts, County and provide opportunities that enhance
picnicking, and open grass fields. recreation opportunities for County residents and
• Planning for multi-use paths and trails, and visitors.
other fitness-related facilities.
• Developing master site plans for selected DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT
community parks. RECOMMENDATIONS
Facilities that are appropriate to regional parks
6.1.3 Regional Parks include natural historic and cultural areas, active
sports fields and recreation facilities with skatepark,
Assessed Need tennis courts, RV camping, regional trail connection,
Based on the demand and needs analysis in Chapter group picnic areas, performing arts and festival
5, an additional 107.1 acres of regional parks will be activities.
needed by 2027, for a total of 259.0 acres. By 2042, SUMMARY OF RECOMMENDATIONS
the additional need will increase to 149.6 acres, for a
total of 301.5 acres of regional parks. • To meet this identified need, the County
Based on the average size of a regional park— could acquire property suitable for the
around 100 acres — one additional regional park site development of a regional park by purchasing
it, by transferring it from another government
is recommended for acquisition by 2027, and up to a agency, or by partnering with local private
total of two additional sites by 2042. interests.
Recommendations • Finding affordable and suitable land for a
regional park may prove to be challenging.
• The greatest need for regional parks is in • A possible option would be to begin
southwest Mason County. Land for additional discussions with public and private landowners
regional parks could be acquired in the regarding partnerships or acquiring selected
locations listed in Table 6.3. undeveloped lands in Mason County.
• Continue to pursue the potential option of • This additional parkland could provide a
securing parts of Lake Isabella State Park. It needed regional park site inclusive of the
would be in the best interest of the County amenities desired by County residents.
to retain this 190-acre park site under public . The potential addition of 107.1 acres of natural
ownership. areas during the 6-year planning period, and
• Schafer State Park also is an ideal option for up to 149.6 acres over the long-term planning
expansion of the regional park needs for Mason horizon, could come from property transfers,
County through a partnership or agreement donations, or partnership agreements.
with State Parks. • The public input stressed the need to address
maintaining existing sites, as well as the need to
Table 6.3 Regional Park Recommendations address the operation and maintenance costs
for any new parkland additions.
Future Need Location Acreage
Southwest Mason
Mason Lake Camp 6.1.4 Natural Open Space
County (owned by Green 55.00 Assessed Need
Diamond)
Based on the demand and needs analysis in Chapter
5, an additional 127.0 acres of open space areas
Implementation Policies will be needed by 2027, for a total of 739.9 acres.
By 2042, the additional need will increase to 248.6
SITE SELECTION CRITERIA acres, for a total of 861.5 acres of open space areas.
There are deficits in Mason County based on a Based on the average size of an open space area —
standard that residents reside within fifteen miles or around 200 acres— one additional open space site is
one hour driving time to a regional park facility. The
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Chapter 6 1 Recommendations and Prioritization 46
recommended for acquisition by 2027, with a total of hillsides, riparian areas, common hiking and
two to three additional sites by 2042. access areas with trails, waterfront property) to
retain its rural character.
Recommendations • Approve Conservation Futures property tax levy
• The greatest need for open space areas is in to provide a reliable and predictable source of
south and southwest Mason County. Additional funds to help acquire interests in open space,
open space areas could be acquired in the habitat areas, wetlands, farm, agricultural and
locations listed in Table 6.4 to meet the future timberlands for conservation. A portion of
demand. the tax levy can be dedicated to the cost of
• Continue discussion on potential surplus public
maintaining and operating the properties.
lands to meet the natural open space needs ' Collaboration with adjoining private enterprise,
of the County—for example, State Parks has public agencies and private non- profit
recently taken a close look at Harstine Island conservation trusts will be instrumental to
State Park (310 acres). maintaining and increasing natural areas,
open space, wildlife habitats and corridor
Table 6.4 Natural Open Space Recommendations connections to state and federal lands in
Mason County.
Future Need Location Acreage • The County should also pursue state and
federal matching grants in partnership with
Kennedy Creek public and private parties to preserve and
South Mason County Preserve 200.00 secure natural areas and open spaces.
South Mason County Harstine Island 200.00
6.2 Recreation Facilities
Implementation Policies 6.2.1 Sports Fields
SITE SELECTION CRITERIA Assessed Need
Natural Open Space parks provide natural areas and Based on the demand and needs assessment
open space which is a vital component of the health in Chapter 5, 11 additional baseball fields will
and well-being of the County and provides natural be needed by 2027 and 13 needed by 2042, or
resources for habitat protection. Sites should be expanded use with all-weather turf or lighting
selected that will preserve and protect properties improvements should be implemented as
that retain the abundance of out-of-doors recommended. No additional softball/baseball fields
recreational opportunities in the region. or soccer fields are needed based on population;
however, based on geography, additional soccer
DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT fields should be provided in the northern part of the
RECOMMENDATIONS County.
Selected property may even be appropriate for Recommendations
development of trail corridors, as Mason County
does not currently own any suitable land options for ' Local schools may have existing fields that
regional trails. These trail corridors could provide could be improved to an acceptable standard
linkages between parks or facilities. or land that could be developed for new fields.
• One option is investigating the installation
SUMMARY OF RECOMMENDATIONS of sports field lighting on existing fields to
• Mason County's inventory of natural areas and increase use, especially in the spring and fall
seasons.
open space should continue to increase over . Continue to explore opportunities to
the next six years to meet the County's needs.
renovation infields with all-weather turf to
• It is recommended that the County continue to expand play and field lighting to extend games.
work to procure natural areas and open space
to preserve environmentally sensitive areas (e.g.
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Chapter 6 1 Recommendations and Prioritization 47
6.2.2 Trails 6.2.3 Children's Play Areas
Assessed Need Assessed Need
A demand standard of 0.5 miles per 1,000 Applying the current standard of 0.33 per 1,000 to
population translates to a total need of 38 miles of the current population, the County has a need for 22
trails by 2027 and 45 miles of trails by 2042. Trails play areas, which indicates a current shortfall of 17
were one of the most desired park and recreation play areas countywide.
facility priorities identified countywide in the 2021
Parks and Trails Survey. Recommendations
• There is a need for children's play areas in the
Recommendations northern portions of the County.
• Implement and develop trails as guided • Additional play areas could be located at
through the adopted Mason County Regional Shorecrest Park, Latimer's Landing, Mason
Trails Plan. Lake Park, Phillips Lake Park, Sunset Bluff, and
• Mason County will need to acquire property to Sandhill Park.
develop regional and multi-use trails into the • Continue efforts to retain new and recently
future. This can be done through trail corridor replaced playground equipment throughout
acquisition, partnerships and other means such the park system as monitoring is of critical
as easements. importance to children's safety.
• Working in partnership with the County Public • Design playground with areas for toddlers,
Works Department, Port of Shelton and State 6-12 year olds and for those 12 and beyond as
Department of Transportation as well as the required under the National Playground Safety
Mason County Health Department will be vital Inspection Guidelines.
and critical to providing opportunities through . All play areas need to meet the National
complete streets, trails and facilities to make Playground Safety with annual site inspection.
a positive impact on improved health for the . All play areas need to be in compliance with the
citizens on a countywide basis. American with Disabilities Act (ADA).
• Part of the completed trails plan should include
potential cross county courses, bicycle routes
and frontage road routes throughout Mason 6.2.4 Other Recreation Facilities
County. All bicycle routes should be designated
by signage, and be striped as bike lands if the Shooting Sports
road in question has the necessary right-of-way ASSESSED NEED
width and is free of on street parking. These
bike lane projects should be implemented Mason County does not have a public shooting
whenever their respective roadways are range (archery, rifle, and pistol) in the park system.
resurfaced. This recreational sport was identified as a need and
• All types of trails are critical recreation facilities ranked #1 in the community questionnaire when
asked "what special facilities should be added."
that need to be address over the next planning There has been a recent wave of interest in archery
period and into the future. These include in the northwest.
multiple-use regional trails, local trails, trail
links to new large residential development
projects (e.g. Shelton Hills to MCRA), bicycle RECOMMENDATIONS
routes, and water trails. • Study of the feasibility of creating or partnering
• To meet this deficit, selected Park Master Site to provide increased opportunities for shooting
Plans will need to incorporate trails into the sports should be of focus over the next
development of parks. planning period. Identifying a site location will
• As identified through public input, the Shelton be critically important to the future project.
to Belfair Trail should be the first priority trail • Matching grant funds are available for the
development for the County. development and operation of shooting ranges
from the Recreation and Conservation Office
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Chapter 6 1 Recommendations and Prioritization 48
(RCO) through the Firearm and Archery Ranges Basketball Courts/outdoor Sports Pads
Funds (FARR) program.
ASSESSED NEED
Boat Launches Basketball courts or outdoor sports pads provide
value to resident located near neighborhood parks
ASSESSED NEED (within 1/2-mile— 1-mile radius) or community parks
Based on the needs assessment, public input, and (1-3 mile radius). Citizens indicated that when asked
the Mason County Shoreline Master Program, water what additional facilities were "needed" (Q-8), 31%
access continues to be of critical importance to indicated that basic park features (play areas, picnic
Mason County. Water access facilities (boat ramps, areas, etc.) were needed.
piers, beaches, etc) ranked 2nd in the community
questionnaire. RECOMMENDATIONS
• When the need for additional neighborhood,
RECOMMENDATIONS community, or regional parks is anticipated,
• Opportunities to secure and develop land and designs that include a basketball court or pad
access to public waterfront points for public use should be included as a recreation facility.
for boating, swimming and fishing will remain
of vital importance over the next planning 6.3 Administration, operations
period. p
• Continue to look for waterfront access points and Maintenance
for acquisition or development along all fresh
and saltwater edges. 6.3.1 Administration
• Research matching grant funding to acquire
and develop water access for boating and Director
recreational activities and sporting needs.
• Continue to expand the water trails, working RECOMMENDED WORK TASKS
with the public and private partners to secure • Create and facilitate a unified Department
additional water access sites. whereby all staff is linked through a central
• Secure public road right-of-ways for park access mission.
points to the water and shorelines throughout • Empower and lead Department personnel to
the County. professional success.
• Respond to the needs and concerns of the
Group Picnic Areas County issues.
• Ensure financial integrity of the Department
ASSESSED NEED by encouraging cost savings while sustaining
31% of the responses, when asked what additional quality services.
facilities are needed in the community questionnaire • Pursue additional funding sources to meet plan
(Q-8), indicated that basic park features (play areas, outcomes.
picnic areas, etc) were most needed. • Encourage community support through a
positive and responsive vision and increased
RECOMMENDATIONS awareness of County parks, trails and
• Looking for future locations and project sites recreational opportunities.
should be of importance over the next planning • Encourage staff training and educational
period (e.g. Harvey Rendsland, Sunset Bluff and opportunities to facilitate professional
Mason Lake). development.
• Partner with local service organizations to help • Strive for efficiency in the provision of
fund the construction. department-wide operations.
• In designing renovation and new neighborhood
and community parks, the inclusion of group
picnic areas, shelters and facilities should be a
part of the design elements.
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Chapter 6 1 Recommendations and Prioritization 49
Department Staff 6.3.2 Operations and Maintenance
RECOMMENDED WORK TASKS Maintenance and Renovation
• Coordinate staff efforts to maintain and
enhance parks. RECOMMENDED WORK TASKS
• Assist and participate in volunteer programs, • Establish maintenance standards for all parks,
stewardship groups or local organizations for trails, and recreation facilities.
development and enhancement. • Encourage the efficiency of maintenance
• Explore opportunities to enhance or generate operations.
resources that benefit the functions and • Standardize signs, equipment, materials and
maintenance needs of the Department system. other amenities where feasible.
• Research department sustainability through • Maximize the skills and abilities of Department
options such as the creation of a county personnel through training and resource
Metropolitan Park District. support.
• Reduce replacement costs and extend the
Park Finance usefulness of equipment and recreation
facilities through preventative maintenance.
RECOMMENDED WORK TASKS . Consider privatizing services as needed, as
• Explore the creation of a Mason County Parks feasible for budget savings and increased
Foundation. efficiency.
• Develop funding partnerships with public and
private sources to assist in efforts for park Park Use: Security and Safety
acquisition, development, programs, and
maintenance. RECOMMENDED WORK TASKS
• Work with organizations that promote private • Design park, trail, and recreational facilities
investment in public park acquisition and that meet all applicable safety standards and
development. discourage unwanted activities.
• Seek funding for new recreation facilities and • Educate users about acceptable behavior
improvements to existing facilities through through appropriate signs, regulations, and
a variety of fund sources including, but not public programs.
limited to: donations, user fees, grants (public • Consider proper visibility, safety, and effective
and private), capital reserves, REET (real estate maintenance in design and development.
excise tax), special district, contributions, bonds,
levies, and partnerships.
• Explore implementation and use of
Conservation Futures funding for natural open
space acquisition and maintenance.
• Identify opportunities to generate revenue
through recreation facility fees and program
fees.
• Develop recreation facilities which reduce
maintenance costs, such as synthetic turf fields.
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Chapter 6 1 Recommendations and Prioritization 50
FUN lltl D il NG AN D c AP I�-
PLANr
Chapter
AL
This chapter of the PROST Plan identifies capital 5. Acquisition of new sites that serve geographic
improvements priorities and strategies for funding equity needs
proposed specific improvements. Appendix A 6. Development of new sites that serve or meet
identifies the Capital Improvements and Schematic geographic equity needs
Level Estimate of Probable Costs for each existing
park. The Mason County Parks Advisory Board High Priority
has organized these Priority recommendations
for these Capital Improvements into three Priority The recommended priorities for the short-term
Levels (Highest, Moderate, Low) over three Planning (2022-2028) Planning Horizon are as follows.
Horizons: 2022-2028, 2029-2036, and 2037-2042. • Replace some of the Boarding Floats at
Latimers Landing
7.1 Project Priorities • Prepare a master plan to guide ADA, parking,
The project guide criteria used to identify for pathways and site furniture improvements at
recommendation with rank and schedule individual Foothills Park
park projects included: • Replace renovate outfields for Fields 3, 4, 5,
& 6, replace perimeter fencing, provide new
• The site's current level of deferred playground, provide new Maintenance Shop
improvements or safety concerns. Facility, and provide new Multi-purpose Soccer/
• Results of the 2021 survey. Football Field with illumination at Sandhill
• Availability of funding, grants, and cooperative County Park
agreements. • Provide miscellaneous park upgrades at Truman
• Projected or current level of use (higher use or Glick Memorial Park
potential use — higher ranking). • Provide pickleball striping, ADA Parking and
• Potential for active involvement of citizen Accessible Routes at Union Community Park
groups, non-profit organizations, and other • Renovate Shelter and provide basketball/
agencies. pickleball court at Walker Park
• Provide interpretive signage and beach access
The priority by project type is as follows: pathway to beach at Menards Landing
1. Improvement to existing developed sites
(redevelopment, renovation, and replacement) Medium Priority
2. ADA projects at all parks The recommended priorities for the medium-term
3. Development that meets existing deficits (2029-2036) Planning Horizon are as follows.
in service or needs identified during public • Provide lawn renovation and irrigation system
outreach at Foothills County Park
4. Development of existing undeveloped sites • Renovate Restrooms at Mason Lake County
Park
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Chapter 7 1 Funding and Capital Improvement Plan 51
• Provide stairs to Fields 4, 5 & 6 at Sandhill funding sources which include grants, general
County Park fund budgets, real estate excise taxes, and/or even
• Provide beach access path at Walker Park general obligation bonds to list a few. Section 7.3
• Provide picnic shelter at Rendsland Park of this chapter provides funding options potentially
available from a variety of sources that range from
Low/Future Priority federal funding to local sources.
The recommended priorities for the long-term Over time, it is important to remember that
(2037-2042) Planning Horizon are as follows: priorities change, new funding sources become
available and unfortunately legislative action
• Provide new shelter at Union Community Park can eliminate or shift funding sources. It is also
• Provide Mountain Bike Trails at Watson important to understand that opportunities for
Wildwood Park the ability to acquire land or the option to develop
a project can arise and change the proposed
project list. Under the Washington State Growth
7.2 Capital Improvement Plan Management Act (GMA), the County reviews the
The funding strategies for implementing the CIP on an annual basis and can make a with the
recommendations outlined in Chapter 7 are adoption of the annual budget.
identified in Appendix A. The proposed project The CIP is presented in Table 7.1. CIP costs for each
estimated costs and potential revenue sources Park Cost Item are based upon similar project
provide the identified sources to begin planning to comparison,judgement, and analogy and represents
fund the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) from 2022 schematic maturity of planning and design. Further
through 2028 and beyond. concept and preliminary design will be necessary to
Key to funding the CIP is to understand that the further define costs prior to funding requests.
total project costs are from a combination of
Table 7.1 Parks, Recreation,Open Space and Trails Capital Improvement Plan—2022-2028
Park Code* Description Capital Commissioner
Costs District
Highest Priority Capital P
Foothills R Renovate & delineate parking area $102,000.00 2
Foothills MP Master Plan $20,000.00 2
Foothills NF Nature trail signage $6,800.00 2
Foothills NF ADA Parking $34,000.00 2
Foothills NF ADA Pathway from Shelter to $25,500.00 2
Restroom
Foothills NF ADA Pathway from Parking to $25,500.00 2
Playground
Foothills NF Picnic tables & Pads $30,600.00 2
Latimer's Landing R Replace Boarding Floats $680,000.00 1
Latimer's Landing NF Information Kiosk $17,000.00 1
Mason County Recreation Area MP Master Plan $20,000.00 3
Mason County Recreation Area NT Perimeter Trail Development $136,000.00 3
Sandhill County Parl< R Replace/renovate Outfield (fields $408,000.00 1
3,4,5 & 6)
*Improvement Code Key.
R=Renovation NF=New Facilities
MP=Master Plan NT=New Trails
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Chapter 7 1 Funding and Capital Improvement Plan 52
Table 7.1 (continued) Parks, Recreation,Open Space and Trails Capital Improvement Plan—2022-2028
DistrictPark Code* Description Capital Commissioner
Costs
Sandhill County Park R Replace perimeter fencing $40,800.00 1
Sandhill County Park NF Synthetic Turf Football/Soccer $3,969,500.00 1
Field with Illumination
Sandhill County Park NF New Playground $510,000.00 1
Sandhill County Park NF Maintenance Shop $1,530,000.00 1
Truman Glick Memorial Park R Shelter pad - level with $17,000.00 2
surrounding grade
Truman Glick Memorial Park R Re-paint entrance gate $2,040.00 2
Truman Glick Memorial Park NT Interpretive trails &signage $85,000.00 2
Union Boat Ramp MP Master Plan $20,000.00 2
Union Community Park R Pickleball Striping on Basketball $42,500.00 2
Court, New Net
Union Community Park NF ADA Parking $51,000.00 2
Union Community Park NF ADA Route to Restroom,Shelter& $59,500.00 2
Playground
Walker Park NF Basketball/Pickleball Court $272,000.00 2
Walker Park NF Renovate Picnic Shelter $238,000.00 2
Menards Landing NF Interpretive signage $20,400.00 1
Menards Landing NF Beach access pathway& stairs $68,000.00 1
Highest Priority Capital
Projects Total $8,431,140.00
Moderate .p
Foothills County Park R Lawn renovation $7,500.00 2
Foothills County Park NF Irrigation system $212,500.00 2
Mason Lake County Park R Renovate Restrooms $221,000.00 1
Sandhill County Park NF Stair to Fields 4,5, & 6 $136,000.00 1
Walker Park NF Beach access pathway& stairs $102,000.00 3
Rendsland Park NF Picnic Shelter $170,000.00 1
Moderate Priority Capital
Projects Total $849,000.00
Union Community Park NF Large Shelter& Lighting $374,000.00 2
Watson Wildwood Park NT Mountain Bike Trails $179,520.00 2
Low Priority Capital Projects
$553,520.00
Total
CIP Projects Total $9,833,660.00
*Improvement Code Key.
R=Renovation NF=New Facilities
MP=Master Plan NT=New Trails
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Chapter 7 1 Funding and Capital Improvement Plan 53
7.3 Potential Funding Sources electoral process for repealing the tax or altering the
and Acquisition Methods rate.
Mason County's annual general government REAL ESTATE EXCISE TAX (REET)
expenditures are derived from the combination Washington law authorizes the governing bodies
of general fund, special revenue, capital projects of counties and cities to impose excise taxes on the
funds and debt service. The following is a listing sale of real property within limits set by the statute.
of suggestions for possible sources of funds for This authority may be divided into three parts
capital facility projects or sources of matching relevant to park systems.
grants for implementation of current and future
recommendations. Real Estate Excise Tax 1 (REET 1)
Capital projects can secure matching grant funds A county may impose a real estate excise tax
from a variety of sources, which include local taxes (REET 1) on the sale of all real property in the
and County funding, as well as state and federal unincorporated parts of the county, at a rate
capital fund programs which are listed below in not to exceed 0.25% of the selling price, to fund
detail. "local capital improvements," including parks,
playgrounds, swimming pools, water systems,
bridges, and sewers. REET 1 funds must be used
7.3.1 Funding Sources "primarily for financing capital projects specified in
Funding for park and trail development, recreation a capital facilities plan element of a comprehensive
facilities, and acquisition projects comes from a plan" (RCW 82.46.010).
variety of revenue sources described in this section,
including local taxes, impact fees, bonds, and grants. Real Estate Excise Tax (REET 2)
A REET 2 may only be levied by cities and counties
Local Funding Options planning under the Growth Management Act. REET
GENERAL FUND 2 revenues must be used "solely for financing capital
projects specified in a capital facilities plan element
This source primarily funds general operations of a comprehensive plan" (RCW 82.46.035). Cities
and maintenance. Capital projects are occasionally and counties can use REET 2 revenues for operations
funded from these sources when the capacity and maintenance (O&M) of existing capital projects.
exists, usually via a transfer of funds to the Capital The maximum amount of REET 2 that may be spent
Improvement Program Fund (CIP). on O&M is the greater of $100,000 or 35% of the
This category includes general funds allocated to available funds, not to exceed $1 million. Counties
the Mason County Parks and Recreation Department may only use REET 2 revenues to pay existing debt
for annual expenditures and capital development. service on capital projects listed in RCW 82.46.010(6)
Revenue is generated largely through sales and -the kinds of capital projects that may be done with
property tax. REET 1 revenues. Acquisition of land for parks is not
a permitted use of REET 2 receipts.
SALES TAX Real Estate Excise Tax- Local Conservation Areas
Washington law authorizes the governing bodies Boards of County Commissioners may impose, with
of cities and counties to impose sales and use majority voter approval, an excise tax on each sale of
taxes at a rate set by the statute to help "carry real property in the county at rate not to exceed 1%
out essential county and municipal purposes''. of the selling price for the purpose of acquiring and
The authority is divided into two parts. Cities may maintaining conservation areas. These areas include
impose by resolution or ordinance a sales and use "open spaces, wetlands, marshes, aquifer recharge
tax at a rate of /2% on any taxable event within their areas, shoreline areas, natural areas, and other lands
jurisdictions. Cities may also impose an additional and waters that are important to preserve flora and
sales tax at a rate up to '/2% on any taxable event fauna."
within the city. In this case, the statute provides an
1 http://apps.leg.wa.gov/RCW/defauIt.aspx?cite=82.14
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Chapter 7 1 Funding and Capital Improvement Plan 54
PROPERTY TAX LEVIES dedicated to the cost of maintaining and operating
the property.
Excess Levy
Washington law allows cities and counties, along IMPACT FEES
with other specified junior taxing districts, to levy Impact fees are charges placed on new development
property taxes in excess of limitations imposed as a condition of development approval to help
by statute when authorized by the voters'. Levy pay for various public facilities the need for
approval requires 60 percent majority vote at a which is directly created by that new growth and
general or special election. developments. Counties, cities, and towns may
impose impact fees on residential and commercial
Regular Property Tax — Lid Lift "development activity" to help pay for certain public
Cities are authorized to impose ad valorem taxes facility improvements, including parks, open space
upon real and personal property'. A city's maximum and recreation facilities. Funds received must be
levy rate for general purposes is $3.375 per $1,000 spent on approved capital projects within 10 years
of assessed valuation. Limitations on annual of collection.
increases in tax collections, coupled with changes
in property value, causes levy rates to rise or fall; BONDS
however, in no case may they rise above statutory For the purposes of funding capital projects, such
limits. Once the rate is established each year, it may as land acquisitions or facility construction, cities
not be raised without the approval of a majority of and counties have the authority to borrow money
the voters. Receiving voter approval is known as a by selling bonds'. Bonds provide the borrower with
lid lift. A lid lift may be permanent, or may be for a external funds to finance long-term investments
specific purpose and time period. or, in the case of government bonds, to finance
CONSERVATION FUTURES TAX expenditures.
Pursuant to RCW 84.34.210 and 84.32.220, Councilmanic Bonds
the Conservation Futures Tax (CFT) is a land Councilmanic bonds may be sold by cities without
preservation program that protects, preserves, public vote. The bonds, both principal and interest,
maintains, improves, restores, and limits the future are retired with payments from existing city revenue
use of threatened areas of open space, timberlands, or new general tax revenue, such as additional sales
wetlands, habitat areas, culturally significant sites, tax or real estate excise tax. The state constitution
and agricultural farmlands at the County level4. The has set a maximum debt limit for councilmanic
CFT is a useful tool for counties to preserve land bonds of 1-1/2% of the value of taxable property in
of public interest for future generations in both the city.
the unincorporated and incorporated areas of the
County. CFT funds, acquired through a property General Obligation Bond
tax levy, are used to purchase land or the rights to
future development of land. This provides a reliable Voter-approved general obligation bonds may be
and predictable source of funds to help acquire sold only after receiving a 60 percent majority vote
interests in open space, habitat areas, wetlands, at a general or special election. If approved, an
farm, agricultural and timberlands for conservation. excess property tax is levied each year for the life
However, some counties have purchased regional of the bond to pay both principal and interest. The
parks and sites for trail use as well. A portion of the state constitution (Article VIII, Section 6) limits total
f debt r 5% of the total assessed value of property in
funds from the Conservation Futures tax levy can be
the jurisdiction.
2 http://apps.leg.wa.gov/RCW/default.aspx?cite=84.52.052
3 http://apps.leg.wa.gov/RCW/default.aspx?cite=84.55.050
4 http://apps.leg.wa.gov/RCW/default.aspx?cite=84.34
5 http://apps.teg.wa.gov/RCW/defau[t.aspx?cite=82.02.050
6 http://apps.leg.wa.gov/RCW/default.aspx?cite=84.52.056
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Chapter 7 1 Funding and Capital Improvement Plan 55
Federal and State Grants and Conservation are intact, functioning, and resilient to climate
Programs change. This grant program is managed by the
Most grant programs require a portion of the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife with
project cost to be provided by a local partner as RCO administering the grants.
match funding. Grants from State and Federal
Agencies are generally available for the acquisition, HERITAGE CAPITAL PROJECTS FUND (HCPF)
construction, or development of parks and other This competitive grant program was authorized
recreation facilities. in 1995 (RCW 27.34.330). Administered by the
Washington State Historical Society, the purpose
AQUATIC LANDS ENHANCEMENT ACCOUNT of HCPF is to interpret and preserve Washington's
(ALEA) history and heritage. To meet the legislative intent
In 1984, the Washington State Legislature created of the HCPF, applicants for HCPF grants must be
this grant program, managed through the RCO, eligible entities with eligible projects. Heritage
to ensure that money generated from aquatic Capital Projects (HCP) grants can cover up to 1/3 of
lands was used to protect and enhance those the cost of eligible capital projects that preserve and
lands. Grants may be used for the acquisition, interpret Washington's history and heritage. Local
improvement, or protection of aquatic lands for agencies must match 50%.
public purposes. They also may be used to provide LAND AND WATER CONSERVATION FUND (LWCF)
or improve public access to the waterfront. ALEA
funds are derived from the leasing of state-owned The LWCF provides grants to buy land and develop
aquatic lands and from the sale of harvest rights for outdoor facilities, including parks, trails, and
shellfish and other aquatic resources. wildlife lands, for the public. Grant recipients must
provide at least 50% matching funds in either cash
BOATING FACILITIES PROGRAM (BFP) or inkind contributions. Grant program revenue is
This program was created in 1965 by a voter- from a portion of Federal revenue derived from
approved initiative. The program provides grants sale or lease of off-shore oil and gas resources. All
to acquire, develop, and renovate boating facilities, property acquired or developed with these grants
including launching ramps, guest moorage, and must be kept forever exclusively for public outdoor
support facilities on both freshwater and saltwater. recreation use.
Local and tribal government grant recipients must
provide at least 25% matching funds in either cash NONHIGHWAY AND OFF-ROAD VEHICLE
ACTIVITIES (NOVA) PROGRAM
or in-kind contributions. The program is funded
from a portion of the motor vehicle gasoline tax The NOVA program provides funding to develop
paid by boaters and not refunded as allowed by law and manage recreation opportunities for such
and is only applicable toward trailerable boating. activities as cross-country skiing, hiking, horseback
riding, mountain biking, hunting, fishing,
BOATING INFRASTRUCTURE GRANT (BIG) sightseeing, motorcycling, and riding all-terrain and
The Boating Infrastructure Grant (BIG) Program four-wheel drive vehicles. A portion of the funding
funds guest boating facilities for recreational boats also is available for education and enforcement
26 feet and larger. Grant recipients must provide at programs that encourage environmentally
least 25% matching funds in either cash or inkind responsible use of the outdoors. Except for off-
contributions. This program is funded from a road vehicle facilities, activities supported by this
portion of the federal Aquatic Resources Trust Fund, program must be accessed via a non-highway
and is administered locally by the RCO. road, which is a public road that was not built or
maintained with gasoline tax funding. Funding is
ESTUARY AND SALMON RESTORATION awarded every other year and comes from a portion
PROGRAM (ESRP) of the state gasoline tax and off-road vehicle use
permits.
This program provides grants and technical
assistance for projects that restore and conserve RECREATIONAL TRAILS PROGRAM (RTP)
near-shore areas in Puget Sound. The goal is to RTP provides funds to maintain trails and facilities
ensure Washington's estuaries, bays, and shorelines that provide a backcountry experience for a range
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Chapter 7 1 Funding and Capital Improvement Plan 56
of activities including hiking, mountain biking, restoration costshare agreements. In all cases,
horseback riding, motorcycling, and snowmobiling. landowners retain the underlying ownership in the
Eligible projects include the maintenance and property and management responsibility. Land
rerouting of recreational trails, development of uses may be allowed that are compatible with
trail-side and trail-head facilities, and operation of the program goal of protecting and restoring the
environmental education and trail safety programs. wetlands and associated uplands. The National
A local match of 20% is required. This program is Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) manages
funded through Federal gasoline taxes attributed to the program and may provide technical assistance.
recreational non-highway uses. RTP is an assistance
program of the U.S. Department of Transportation's COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANTS
Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), and grants (CDBG)
are administered locally by the RCO. These funds, administered by the U.S. Department
WASHINGTON WILDLIFE AND RECREATION of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), are
intended to develop viable urban communities
PROGRAM (WWRP) by providing a suitable living environment and
Managed by the RCO, the WWRP is divided into expanding economic opportunities, principally for
Habitat Conservation and Outdoor Recreation low and moderate income persons. CDBG Public
accounts; these are further divided into several Facilities and Improvements funds may be used
project categories. Cities, counties, and other for the acquisition, construction, and rehabilitation
local sponsors may apply for funding in urban of public facilities, including parks, playgrounds,
wildlife habitat, local parks, trails, and water access aesthetic amenities, and parking lots.
categories. Funds for local agencies are awarded on
a matching basis. Grant applications are evaluated ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION GRANTS
once each year. The State Legislature must authorize In past years, the Environmental Protection Agency
funding for the WWRP project lists. (EPA) has sought grant proposals from eligible
applicants to support environmental education
YOUTH ATHLETIC FACILITIES (YAF) PROGRAM projects that promote environmental awareness
The YAF Program provides grants to develop, and stewardship and help provide people with the
equip, maintain, and improve youth and community skills to take responsible actions to protect the
athletic facilities. Cities, counties, and qualified environment. Although currently not appropriated,
nonprofit organizations may apply for funding, and this program may become available in future years.
grant recipients must provide at least 50% matching
funds in either cash or in-kind contributions. RIVERS, TRAILS AND CONSERVATION
ASSISTANCE (RTCA)PROGRAM
BETTER UTILIZING INVESTMENTS TO LEVERAGE The Rivers, Trails and Conservation Assistance
DEVELOPMENT (BUILD) PROGRAM Program, also known as the Rivers & Trails Program
BUILD Grants are administered by the U.S. or RTCA, is a technical assistance resource for
Department of Transportation. Eligible projects communities administered by the National Park
for BUILD Grants are capital projects that include Service and federal government agencies so they
trail and active transportation projects, as well can conserve rivers, preserve open space and
as multimodal projects with trail and active develop trails and greenways'. The RTCA program
transportation elements. implements the natural resource conservation and
outdoor recreation mission of NPS in communities
WETLAND RESERVE PROGRAM (WRP) across America.
This program provides landowners the opportunity
to preserve, enhance, and restore wetlands and NORTH AMERICAN WETLANDS CONSERVATION
associated uplands. The program is voluntary and ACT GRANTS PROGRAM (USFW)
provides three enrollment options: permanent The North American Wetlands Conservation Act
easements, 30-year easements, and 10-year of 1989 provides matching grants to organizations
7 http://www.nps.gov/ncrc/programs/rtca/
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Chapter 7 1 Funding and Capital Improvement Plan 57
and individuals who have developed partnerships completion of the petition process and review by
to carry out wetland conservation projects in county commissioners, a proposition for district
the United States, Canada, and Mexico for the formation and election of five district commissioners
benefit of wetlands-associated migratory birds and is submitted to the voters of the proposed district
other wildlife'. Two competitive grants programs at the next general election. Once formed, park
exist (Standard and a Small Grants Program) and and recreation districts retain the authority to
require that grant requests be matched by partner propose a regular property tax levy, annual excess
contributions at no less than a 1-to-1 ratio. Funds property tax levies and general obligation bonds.
from U.S. Federal sources may contribute toward a All three require 60% percent voter approval and
project, but are not eligible as match. 40% percent voter turnout. With voter approval,
The Standard Grants Program supports projects the district may levy a regular property tax not to
in Canada, the United States, and Mexico that exceed sixty cents per thousand dollars of assessed
involve long- term protection, restoration, and/or value for up to six consecutive years.
enhancement of wetlands and associated uplands BUSINESS SPONSORSHIPS / DONATIONS
habitats.
Business sponsorships for programs may be
The Small Grants Program operates only in the available throughout the year. In-kind contributions
United States; it supports the same type of projects are often received, including food, door prizes and
and adheres to the same selection criteria and equipment/material.
administrative guidelines as the U.S. Standard
Grants Program. However, project activities are INTERAGENCY OR INTER-LOCAL (ILA)
usually smaller in scope and involve fewer project AGREEMENTS
dollars. Grant requests may not exceed $75,000, and
funding priority is given to grantees or partners new State law provides for interagency cooperative
to the Act's Grants Program. efforts between units of government. Joint
acquisition, development and/or use of park and
Other Methods and Funding Sources open space facilities may be provided between
Parks, Public Works and utility providers.
METROPOLITAN PARK DISTRICT
Metropolitan park districts may be formed for the PRIVATE GRANTS, DONATIONS & GIFTS
purposes of management, control, improvement, Many trusts and private foundations provide
maintenance and acquisition of parks, parkways and funding for park, recreation and open space
boulevards. In addition to acquiring and managing projects. Grants from these sources are typically
their own lands, metropolitan districts may accept allocated through a competitive application process
and manage park and recreation lands and and vary dramatically in size based on the financial
equipment turned over by any city within the district resources and funding criteria of the organization.
or by the county'. Formation of a metropolitan park Philanthropic giving is another source of project
district may be initiated in cities of five thousand funding. Efforts in this area may involve cash gifts
population or more by city council ordinance, or by and include donations through other mechanisms
petition, and requires majority approval by voters such as wills or insurance policies. Community
for creation. fundraising efforts can also support park, recreation
or open space facilities and projects.
PARK AND RECREATION DISTRICT
Park and recreation districts may be formed for
the purposes of providing leisure-time activities
and recreation facilities and must be initiated by
petition of at least 15% percent of the registered
voters within the proposed district10. Upon
8 https://www.fws.gov/birds/grants/north-american-wetland-conservation-act/how-to-apply-for-a-nawca-grant.php
9 http://apps.leg.wa.gov/RCW/defautt.aspx?cite=35.61
10 http://apps.leg.wa.gov/RCW/default.aspx?cite=36.69
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Chapter 7 1 Funding and Capital Improvement Plan 58
7.3.2 Land Acquisition Tools and GIFT DEED
Methods When a landowner wishes to bequeath their
Like funding sources, a variety of tools and methods property to a public or private entity upon their
death, they can record a gift deed with the county
exist for acquiring land for future parks facilities. assessor's office to insure their stated desire to
transfer their property to the targeted beneficiary as
Direct Purchase Methods part of their estate. The recording of the gift deed
MARKET VALUE PURCHASE usually involves the tacit agreement of the receiving
party.
Through a written purchase and sale agreement,
the county purchases land at the present market OPTION TO PURCHASE AGREEMENT
value based on an independent appraisal. This is a binding contract between a landowner
Timing, payment of real estate taxes and other and the county that would only apply according to
contingencies are negotiable.
the conditions of the option and limits the seller's
PARTIAL VALUE PURCHASE (BARGAIN SALE) power to revoke an offer. Once in place and signed,
the Option Agreement may be triggered at a future,
In a bargain sale, the landowner agrees to sell specified date or upon the completion of designated
for less than the property's fair market value. A conditions. Option Agreements can be made for any
landowner's decision to proceed with a bargain sale time duration and can include all of the language
is unique and personal; landowners with a strong pertinent to closing a property sale.
sense of civic pride, long community history or
concerns about capital gains are possible candidates RIGHT OF FIRST REFUSAL
for this approach. In addition to cash proceeds In this agreement, the landowner grants the county
upon closing, the landowner may be entitled to
a charitable income tax deduction based on the the first chance to purchase the property once the
difference between the land's fair market value and landowner wishes to sell. The agreement does not
its sale price. establish the sale price for the property, and the
landowner is free to refuse to sell it for the price
LIFE ESTATES AND BEQUESTS offered by the county. This is the weakest form of
agreement between an owner and a prospective
In the event a landowner wishes to remain on the buyer.
property for a long period of time or until death,
several variations on a sale agreement exist. In a life Landowner Incentive Measures
estate agreement, the landowner may continue to
live on the land by donating a remainder interest DENSITY BONUSES
and retaining a "reserved life estate." Specifically, Density bonuses are a planning tool used to
the landowner donates or sells the property to encourage a variety of public land use objectives,
the county, but reserves the right to continue to usually in urban areas. They offer the incentive of
live on and use the property. At the time of the being able to develop at densities beyond current
landowner's death, full title and control over the regulations in one area, in return for concessions
property is transferred to the county. In a bequest, in another. Density bonuses are applied to a single
the landowner designates in a will or trust document parcel or development. An example is allowing
that the property is to be transferred to the county developers of multi-family units to build at higher
upon death. While a life estate offers the county densities if they provide a certain number of low-
some degree of title control during the life of the income units or public open space. For density
landowner, a bequest does not. Unless the intent to bonuses to work, market forces must support
bequest is disclosed to and known by the county densities at a higher level than current regulations.
in advance, no guarantees exist with regard to the
condition of the property upon transfer or to any TRANSFER OF DEVELOPMENT RIGHTS
liabilities that may exist.
The transfer of development rights (TDR) is
an incentive-based planning tool that allows
landowners to trade the right to develop property to
its fullest extent in one area for the right to develop
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Chapter 7 1 Funding and Capital Improvement Plan 59
beyond existing regulations in another area. Local This is a legal agreement between the landowner
governments (e.g., Mason County) may establish the and the county that permanently limits uses of the
specific areas in which development may be limited land in order to conserve a portion of the property
or restricted and the areas in which development for public use or protection; the landowner still owns
beyond regulation may be allowed. Usually, but not the property, but the use of the land is restricted.
always, the "sending" and "receiving" property are Conservation easements may result in an income tax
under common ownership. Some programs allow deduction and reduced property taxes and estate
for different ownership which, in effect, establishes taxes. Typically, this approach is used to provide trail
a market for development rights to be bought and corridors where only a small portion of the land is
sold. needed or for the strategic protection of natural
resources and habitat.
IRC 1031 EXCHANGE
If the landowner owns business or investment PARK OR OPEN SPACE DEDICATION
property, an IRC Section 1031 Exchange can REQUIREMENTS
facilitate the exchange of likekind property solely Local governments have the option to require
for business or investment purposes. No capital gain developers to dedicate land for parks under the
or loss is recognized under Internal Revenue Code State Subdivision Law (Chapter 58.17 RCW) and
Section 1031. This option may be a useful tool in the State Environmental Policy Act (Chapter 43.21C
negotiations with an owner of investment property, RCW). Under the subdivision law, developers
especially if the tax savings offset to the owner can can be required to provide the parks/recreation
translate to a sale price discount for the county. improvements or pay a fee in lieu of the dedicated
land and its improvements. Under the SEPA
CURRENT (OPEN SPACE) USE TAXATION requirements, land dedication may occur as part of
PROGRAMS mitigation for a proposed development's impact.
Property owners whose current lands are in open
space, agricultural, and/or timber uses may have Other Land Protection Options
that land valued at their current use rather than their LAND TRUSTS AND CONSERVANCIES
"highest and best" use assessment. This differential
assessed value, allowed under the Washington Open Land trusts are private non-profit organizations that
Space Taxation Act (Chapter 84.34 RCW) helps to acquire and protect special open spaces and are
preserve private properties as open space, farm or traditionally not associated with any government
timber lands. If land is converted to other non-open agency. Capitol Land Trust is a local organization
space uses, the land owner is required to pay the accredited by the Land Trust Alliance working
difference between the current use annual taxes to conserve natural areas and working lands in
and highest/best taxes for the previous seven years. southwest Washington. Other national organizations
When properties are sold to a local government or with local representation include the Nature
conservation organization for land conservation/ Conservancy, Trust for Public Land and the Wetlands
preservation purposes, the required payment of Conservancy.
seven years' worth of differential tax rates is waived.
The amount of this tax liability can be part of the REGULATORY MEASURES
negotiated land acquisition from private to public or A variety of regulatory measures for land protection
quasi-public conservation purposes. are available to local agencies and jurisdictions.
Available programs and regulations include Mason
Easements and Dedication County's Critical Areas Ordinance and Shoreline
Master Program; the State Environmental Policy Act
CONSERVATION AND/OR ACCESS EASEMENTS (SEPA); and the State Hydraulic Code.
Through a conservation easement, a landowner
voluntarily agrees to sell or donate certain rights PUBLIC/PRIVATE UTILITY CORRIDORS
associated with their property (often the right to Utility corridors can be managed to maximize
subdivide or develop), and a private organization or protection or enhancement of open space lands.
public agency agrees to hold the right to enforce Utilities maintain corridors for provision of services
the landowner's promise not to exercise those rights. such as electricity, gas, oil, and rail travel. Some
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Chapter 7 1 Funding and Capital Improvement Plan 60
utility companies have cooperated with local
governments for development of public programs
such as parks and trails within utility corridors.
7.4 New Parks / Trails
New Parks and Trails are listed in Appendix B. These
facilities will require further Scoping and Feasibility
Analysis to determine the type, size, location,
environmental impacts, and capital/maintenance
costs in order for the Commission to render
decisions on these projects.
7.5 Projects Proposed by other
Mason County Public Agencies
Several Mason County Public Agencies have
proposed park, recreation and trail improvements
separate from Mason County's PROST Plan; refer to
list in Appendix B. Whereas these agencies intend
to pursue these opportunities on their own, Mason
County may consider endorsing and supporting
these projects as they develop.
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Chapter 7 Funding and Capital Improvement Plan 61
APPENDIX A
Facility Inventory
Appendix A provides history and describes Additionally, an in-depth analysis was completed
conditions and planned development for each of the on the following parks by Robert W. Droll and
Mason County Parks. Associates. The Park Master Plan description
includes vicinity and location maps, quantified
Collectively, the ideal park system for Mason assessment of existing park conditions, current
County is one that provides a variety of park types and proposed improvements, capital funding
offering certain types of recreation and open space cost estimates and identified capital funding
opportunities. Each park separately may serve a amount and sources previously secured either for
basic function, but together they provide a network acquisition or development or for both acquisition
of needs for the entire community. The Mason and development of the park site. These Master Site
County park system is centered on the ideal that Plans were completed for the following park sites:
local areas across the county should have the ability
to be served by regional or natural open space areas . Foothills County Park
or have the opportunity to enjoy community parks • Latimer's Landing
and neighborhood parks that provides both passive • Mason County Recreation Area
and active recreational opportunities.
• Mason Lake County Park
The parks and open space areas defined in this plan . Sandhill County Park
are intended to achieve a number of purposes that . Truman Glick Memorial Park
reflect the Mission Statement to provide a diverse
system of safe, attractive, and professionally ' Union Boat Ramp
maintained parks, trails and recreation • Union Park
opportunities designed to enhance the quality of • Walker Park
life for all who reside in and visit Mason County.
Inventory
The following individual park descriptions provide
the basic elements of the each park with history,
planned development, site improvements with a
site photo and/or aerial location map. These facility
inventory sheets are included for the following
parks:
• Coulter Creek
• Decker Creek
• Harstine Island Park
• Harvey Rendsland/Jiggs Lake Park
• Hunter Park
• Jacoby/Shorecrest
• Menards Landing (Boat Launch)
• Oakland Bay Historical Park
• Phillips Lake Park
• Sunset Bluff
• Watson Wildwood View Park
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Facility Inventory I Appendix A 63
Index of Existing Mason County Parks(Alphabetical)
Map#* Park Name Park Type Acreage
20 Coulter Creek Park Community Park 113.00
12 Decker Creek Park Natural Open Space 500.00
Neighborhood Park(10 acres)
5 Foothills County Park Natural Open Space(70 acres) 80.00
17 Harstine Island Park Natural Open Space 6.90
3 Harvey Rendsland/Diggs Lake Park Community Park 15.00
2 Hunter Park Neighborhood Park 0.15
18 Jacoby/Shorecrest County Park Community Park 2.80
16 Latimer's Landing County Park Community Park 5.00
13 Mason County Recreation Area Regional Park 40.00
8 Mason Lake County Park Community Park 17.36
4 Menards Landing(Boat Launch) Community Park 7.40
14 Oakland Bay Historical Park Regional Park 81.87
15 Phillips Lake County Park Community Park 0.40
1 Sandhi[[County Park Regional Park 30.00
11 Sunset Bluff Park Community Park 36.00
10 Truman Glick Memorial Park Community Park 35.46
7 Union Boat Ramp Community Park 0.16
6 Union County Park Neighborhood Park 1.92
19 Walker County Park Community Park 5.04
9 Watson Wildwood View Park Natural Open Space 36.00
Total 1014.46
*Refer to inventory map on the following page for park locations
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Facility Inventory I Appendix A 64
Mason County Park Inventory Map
Olympic National Park
Bremerton
Lillivvaup 1
Tahuya State Forest �2 gelfai r
Olympic National Forest �'� -
'rd Yf ( — y - -
5� 4 '-
Hoodsport 3 20
Allyn
Potlatch ,� S 4
6-1
Grapeview
15
Matlock . _ "� 13 . 14 164
Harstine Island
-17
, 12 Shelton
✓. rat' �.. ;�:w�- � ! � � `�
Olympia
1 SandhiR County Park 8 Mason Lake County Park 15 Phillips Lake County Park
2 Hunter Park 9 Watson Wildwood View Park 16 Latimers Landing County Park
3 Rendsland County Park 10 Truman Glick County Park 17 Harstine Island Park
4 Menards Landing 11 Sunset Bluff Park 18 Jacoby/Shorecrest County Park
5 Foothills County Park 12 Decker Creek Park 19 Walker County Park
6 Union County Park 13 Mason County Recreation Area 20 Coulter Creek Park
7 Union Boat Ramp 14 Oakland Bay Historical Park
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Facility Inventory I Appendix A 65
Coulter Creek Park
Inventory Map #20
TYPE: Community Park
LOCATION: North Bay Road and State Route 302,
Belfair (tip of Case Inlet)
SIZE: 114 acres
OWNERSHIP/DEED RESTRICTION: Mason County
STATUS: Developed
AMENITIES: Picnic tables, vault toilet, parking
PLANNED IMPROVEMENTS:
• Fishing • Picnicking
• Water access • Restroom
• Trails • ADA
• Wildlife viewing • Passive recreation
• Natural areas • Dogs allowed
Purchased in 2012 and 2016 with matching grant
funds from the Recreation and Conservation Office.
State matching grant #10-1601 WWRP-WA.
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Facility Inventory I Appendix A 66
Decker Creek Park
Inventory Map #12
TYPE: Natural Open Space
LOCATION: West Mason County
SIZE: 500 acres
OWNERSHIP/DEED RESTRICTION: Mason County
STATUS: Undeveloped
AMENITIES: None
PLANNED IMPROVEMENTS:
• None planned
Purchased from Green Diamond Resource Company
in 2010. State matching grants 06-1943 WWRP-RP-
ACQ and 06-2151 SAL-PRG-FED.
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Facility Inventory I Appendix A 67
Harstine Island Pori?
Inventory Map #17
TYPE: Natural Open Space
LOCATION: 2411 Harstine Island Road N, Shelton
SIZE: 6.9 acres
OWNERSHIP/DEED RESTRICTION: Mason County
STATUS: Undeveloped
AMENITIES: None _
PLANNED IMPROVEMENTS•
• None planned ,
Z 4�
Purchased in December 2002. Harstine Island Park
could possibly be leased to a group desiring to 7 `� • t ;.
develop the Harstine Island Theater at the park site. r a
Washington State Parks owns a 300-acre park that `
is located adjacent to Harstine Island Park. At the
present time, Harstine Island Park is all natural and
has not been developed.
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Facility Inventory I Appendix A 68
Harvey Rendsland r `
(figgs Lake) Park
Inventory Map #3
TYPE: Community Park
LOCATION: 10991 NE Belfair Tahuya Road, Tahuya
SIZE: 15.0 acres
OWNERSHIP/DEED RESTRICTION: Mason County
STATUS: Undeveloped
AMENITIES: Entry road/water access, parking
PLANNED IMPROVEMENTS:
• Picnicking
• Trails
• Additional parking
• Signage
• Picnic shelter
This park was transferred from Washington
State Parks to Mason County in 2008. Currently
undeveloped, the park consists of 15 acres and
includes approximately 1,900 ft. of waterfront access
to Jiggs Lake. A Master Plan with costs estimates has
been completed.
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Facility Inventory I Appendix A 69
Hunter Park
Inventory Map #2
TYPE: Neighborhood Park
LOCATION: Clifton Lane and Old Belfair Highway,
Belfair
SIZE: 0.15 acres
OWNERSHIP/DEED RESTRICTION: Mason County
STATUS: Developed as bus stop area -
AMENITIES: ADA, passive recreation, bench, bus stop y
PLANNED IMPROVEMENTS:
• No current County capital plans
• Private project funding for bus shelter
Acquired in 1996. Smaller park located in Belfair
that includes a major connecting regional route
system from Mason County Transit. Connections to
Bremerton/Seattle Ferry provide access to the greater
Seattle services. The site has a bus stop, benches and
a small amount of open space. In 2012 volunteers and
private donors provided a new public art piece at the
Park. The piece, titled "Beginning Again Once More"
was created by artist James Kelsy.
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Facility Inventory I Appendix A 70
Jacoby (Shorecrest) Park
Inventory Map #18
TYPE: Community Park -
LOCATION: 120 E Shorecrest Parkway, Shelton J _
SIZE: 2.80 acres
OWNERSHIP/DEED RESTRICTION: Mason County
STATUS: Developed regional active sports park
AMENITIES: Boat launch, fishing, covered shelter, _
barbecue grills, restrooms, day use picnic area, ,
children's play area, passive recreation, parking , , y
PLANNED IMPROVEMENTS:
• None planned i
h �
Deeded to County on May 18, 1959 by Lillian
Peterson, Marie Bloom, Retta Hultgren, Emerson and '
Evelyn White. Located along Hammersley Inlet. Park
includes beach access, boat launch, picnic shelter, and
play area.
r
1
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Facility Inventory I Appendix A 71
Menards Landing (Boat - — -
Launch)
Inventory Map #4
TYPE: Community Park
LOCATION: 18931 NE North Shore Road, Tahuya
SIZE: 7.4 acres
OWNERSHIP/DEED RESTRICTION: Mason County _ ----b
STATUS: Developed
AMENITIES: Hand carry boat launch, fishing,
picnicking, walking and jogging, barbecues, picnic
shelter, restroom, passive recreation, parking
PLANNED IMPROVEMENTS:
• Possible trailhead for trail to Harvey Rendsland
Park
This small park was transferred to Mason County
when the Port of Tahuya dissolved. Site improvements
have been completed in partnership with the
Washington Water Trails Association (WWTP). State
matching grants 89-033 ALEA ACQ and 07-1406 RTR
The park provides beach access, a small boat launch
for kayaks or canoes, picnic areas, and a gazebo. Also
available at the site is a portable toilet and access to
adjacent DNR tidelands.
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Facility Inventory Appendix A 72
Oakland Bay Historical Park
Inventory Map #14
TYPE: Regional Park
LOCATION: 1570 E Agate Bay Road, Shelton
SIZE: 81.87 acres
OWNERSHIP/DEED RESTRICTION: Mason County
STATUS: Developed phases and natural areas
AMENITIES: Walking/jogging, open space with ,
limited paths/trails, picnicking, vault toilet, parking,
access to Malaney Creek and Oakland Bay, site of
Malaney Historical Homestead
PLANNED IMPROVEMENTS:
• Exterior restoration to historical home
• Bird watching platform/view point
• Environmental education area/shelter
• Interpretive information areas
Oakland Bay Park was purchased in a partnership
arrangement with the Capital Land Trust in 2005.
State matching grants 09-1396 LWCF. The park has
waterfront access to Oakland Bay and is the site of an
old homestead and orchard area. The park is mostly
timberland with a gravel road accessing the home. In
2012 Oakland Bay Historical Park with the Malaney-
O'Neill historic home was listed on the Washington
Heritage Register of Historic Places. No pets are
allowed at this park.
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Facility Inventory I Appendix A 73
Phillips Lake Park
Inventory Map #15
TYPE: Community Park
LOCATION: 50 E Phillips Lake Loop Road, Shelton
SIZE: 0.40 acres
OWNERSHIP/DEED RESTRICTION: Mason County
STATUS: Developed water access
AMENITIES: Boat launch, fishing, small picnic area, ¢�
restroom, parking _
PLANNED IMPROVEMENTS:
• None planned
Deeded to County on August 19, 1951 by Edward
Clifford for $1.00. The park is adjacent to a boat
launch owned by Washington State Department of
Fish and Wildlife.
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Facility Inventory I Appendix A 74
Sunset Bluff Park
Inventory Map #11
TYPE: Community Park
LOCATION: End of Sunset Road, Shelton
SIZE: 36 acres
OWNERSHIP/DEED RESTRICTION: Mason County '-
STATUS: Undeveloped natural open space L Y "
AMENITIES: Fishing, water access, nature areas, -
passive recreation, parking
PLANNED IMPROVEMENTS:
• Access path and trail to beach
• Informational/interpretive signage
• ADA
• Restroom
Purchased from Trust for Public Lands in 2012. State
matching grant Phase 1 #10-1061 LWCF.
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Facility Inventory I Appendix A 75
Watson Wild wood View Park
Inventory Map #9
TYPE: Neighborhood Park
LOCATION: Highway 302/Watson Lane, Victor
SIZE: 36 acres
OWNERSHIP/DEED RESTRICTION: Mason County
STATUS: Undeveloped
AMENITIES: Parking, trails, picnicking
PLANNED IMPROVEMENTS:
• Access road and parking
• Vault toilet
• Trails
• Signage
• Viewpoint
Land donated in memory of John Houghton Watson
and Alma Katherine Lowe Watson by their children John,
Alan and Katherine in 2000. Located in Victor, this park is
completely natural consisting of 36 acres of timberland.
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Facility Inventory I Appendix A 76
cot?
Mason County PROS Nan
Foothills County
1
1854 Inventory Map # 5
Address 241 N Foothills Park Road, Hoodsport
Parcel Number 42210-40-60000
Size 80.0 acres total: 10.0 acres Neighborhood Park/ 70.0 acres Natural Open Space
Ownership/Deed Restriction Mason County
Status Developed/Natural Area
Development Costs $476,580
Comments Foothills County Park has been Mason County owned since 1937, and was dedicated for
park use on August 2, 1982. Dogs are currently allowed.
01
EXISTING FACILITIES
Amenities Condition
GOOD FAIR POOR
Multi-use field (baseball &soccer)
Basketball Court & Hoops
Concrete Paths Q
Natural Areas (0
Restroom •)
Platform/Stage Structure
Playground Equipment O
Parking Area
Picnic Table
Crushed Rock Roads Q
Park Host Area Q
Field Perimeter Fence
MASON
Vicinity Map Location Map
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Facility Inventory I Appendix A 77
Foothills County Park
PW
Basketball Court & Restroom Multi-Use Field & Playground Shelter Structure
PROPOSED IMPROVEMENTS
Amenities Maintenance / Operations
Signage for nature trails
Park entry sign
Reseed/sod turf in multi-use field
Delineate parking area
Pathway from play area to restroom
New platform/stage structure
New picnic tables
New irrigation system for turf
Renovate restrooms
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Facility Inventory I Appendix A 78
Mason County PROS Plan
Latimer 's Landing
IS54 Inventory Map #16
Address Launch:51 E Harstine Bridge Road,Shelton/ Parking:3291 Pickering Road,Shelton
Parcel Number 22004-41-60040,22004-41-00040,22004-41-60090
Size 3.0 acres total: 1.0 acre Boat Ramp/2.0 acres Parking Area
Ownership/Deed Restriction Mason County
Status Developed
Development Costs $139,500
Comments Latimer's Landing was purchased on July 18, 1968 for$6,869.77.
EXISTING FACILITIES
Amenities Condition
GOOD FAIR POOR
Boat Launch
Fishing Area
Pier QQ
Dock QQ
Gangway 0
Portable Toilet Q
Picnicking Areas
ADA Paths (Crushed Rock) QQ
Parking Lot 0
E
� kiOC:F
Vicinity Map Location Map
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Facility Inventory I Appendix A 79
Landing
Parking Area Day Use Park Boat Launch
PROPOSED IMPROVEMENTS
Amenities Maintenance / Operations
Information kiosk Garbage control
Portable toilet enclosure
No Parking sign for striped area
Park entry sign
Develop beach access
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Facility Inventory I Appendix A 80
••
Mason CountyRecreation Area
IS54 Inventory Map # 13
Address E 2100 Johns Prairie Road,Shelton
Parcel Number 32005-40-60010
Size 40.0 acres
Ownership/Deed Restriction Mason County
Status Developed Regional Active Sports Park
Development Costs $6,903,300
Comments Mason County Recreation Area was given to Mason County by the Port of Shelton-
dedicated on September 15, 1978.
EXISTING FACILITIES
Condition
Amenities
GOOD FAIR POOR
Ball Fields (baseball/softball) - Natural Turf(5) Q
Ball Fields (baseball)-Synthetic Turf(2) QQ
Playground O
Restroom/Caretaker's Residence
Parking Lot
Picnicking Areas 0
ADA Paths
Batting Cages
Concessions Area QQ
Storage BuildingQ
IrrigationQ
I
Vicinity Map Location Map
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Facility Inventory I Appendix A 81
li• I � �
Mason County Rec Area
u a
r - 4
IL
Playground Natural Turf Field Synthetic Turf Field
PROPOSED IMPROVEMENTS
Amenities Maintenance / Operations
Synthetic infields (fields 6,7)
Playground curb Refill wood chips in playground
Canopy over bleachers Clean restroom/caretaker's residence gutters
Spray ground
Pave all areas adjacent to fields Permanently attach park furniture
Fence adjacent to pump house Re-paint dugouts
Field 5- cut/smooth lip & exp. to regulation size
Field 6- replace dugout trim board/add flashing Re-side pump house
Replace backstop fence fabric Fill in field potholes
Synthetic turf rings for practice areas Replace field sod where necessary
New info kiosk, signage, entry sign, field numbers
Lights on Fields 2 & 3 Fix water fountain
Perimeter walking paths Pave & re-stripe parking lot
Expand restroom
Batting cage renovation Acquire new mowers
New irrigation system Repair/replace irrigation system
New picnic shelter
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Facility Inventory I Appendix A 82
••
MasonCounty Park
IS54 Inventory Map # 8
Address E 6011 Mason Lake Drive W, Grapeview
Parcel Number 22234-21-60010, 22233-51-00131
Size 17.36 acres
Ownership/Deed Restriction Mason County
Status Developed Waterfront Park
Development Costs $159,375
Comments Mason Lake County Park was deeded on August 20, 1951 by W.C. Madding for$1.00.
EXISTING FACILITIES
Amenities Condition
GOOD FAIR POOR
Boat Launch 0
Fishing Area
Nature Areas 0
Restrooms Q
Parking Lots (main &overflow) Q
Picnicking Area 0
I
oy
•
Vicinity Map Location Map
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Facility Inventory I Appendix A 83
r
Mason Lake County Park
i 1-0
Dock & Boat Launch Overflow Parking Area Restroom
PROPOSED IMPROVEMENTS
Amenities Maintenance / Operations
Information kiosk Slit removal on as-needed basis
Park entry sign Pressure wash restroom roof
Renovate restroom Remove logs on beach
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Facility Inventory I Appendix A 84
••
SandhiU County Park
IS54 Inventory Map # 1
Address NE 1000 Sandhill Road, Belfair
Parcel Number 12330-14-60000
Size 30.00 acres
Ownership/Deed Restriction Mason County
Status Developed Regional Active Sports Park
Development Costs $2,498,935
Comments Sandhill County Park was deed to the County on May 4, 1982 by the Department of
Natural Resources(DNR).
DI Fields 1-3 0 Fields 4-7
EXISTING FACIL.ITIE
Amenities Condition
GOOD FAIR POOR
Ball Fields 00(3) Q(1,2)
Restroom/Concessions Building 0
Picnicking Areas 0 0
Walking/Jogging Paths 0 0
ADA Pathways
Parking Lot
Caretaker's Residence DQ
Tunnel 0
Utility Building 0 Q
Fencing 0 DQ
Bleachers 0
Dugouts 0 Di
0
a
y
'r•
Vicinity Map Location Map
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Facility Inventory Appendix A 85
SandhiH County
- Y•AV �I I
Ir
Field 3 Approach Dugout Field 3
PROPOSED IMPROVEMENTS
Amenities Maintenance / Operations
Ball field renovation (fields 1 & 2)
Park entry sign Weed control
Grafitti removal
Repair tunnel access
Field 1- Replace stairs, backstop, infield Dugouts level with surrounding grade
Field 2- New backstop Gopher control
Field 3- Replace outfield
Fields 1,2,3- New bleachers, outfields, fencin
Develop stronger link between fields 1,2,3
Improve drainage- multiple fields
Play Area Equipment
New Multi-Purpose Synthetic Field w/ Lights
P
of
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Facility Inventory I Appendix A 86
••
Truman Glick Memorial Park
IS54 Inventory Map # 10
Address W 1291 Ford Road, Matlock
Parcel Number 62004-33-60000
Size 35.46 acres
Ownership/Deed Restriction Mason County
Status Developed
Development Costs $190,800
Comments Truman Glick Memorial Park was donated to Mason County, deeded on August 17, 1978.
EXISTING FACILITIES
Condition
Amenities
GOOD FAIR POOR
Picnic Shelter 0
Crushed Rock Drive 0
Barbecues Q
Playground 0
Decker Creek Bridge 0
Restroom 0
Horseshoes Area 0
Nature Areas 0
Walking/Jogging Trails DQ
Parking Area
Open Field 0
Park Entrance 0
Utility Buildings 0
0
3
t
Vicinity Map Location Map
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Facility Inventory I Appendix A 87
r• _
� � Via_ �.v k} . .g�.__• r ..~ -
Truman Glick Mem Park
v Y4�
Field & Shelter Memorial Marker Decker Creek Bridge
PROPOSED IMPROVEMENTS
Amenities Maintenance / Operations
More prominant memorial marker Weed control- lawn at park entrance & CR trails
Park entrance sign New paint- entrance gate
Develop trails with signage Pressure wash bridge
New picninc tables Pressure wash restroom & utility building roofs
Redevelop horse shoe areas (4) More wood chips for playground area
Shelter level with surrounding grade
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Facility Inventory I Appendix A 88
••
Pt
Union Boat Ramp
IS54 Inventory Map # 7
Address E 5093 State Route 106, Union
Parcel Number 00000-00-00000
Size 0.16 acres
Ownership/Deed Restriction Mason County
Status Developed Water Access
Development Costs $1,193,000
Comments No information.
EXISTING FACILITIES
Condition
Amenities
GOOD FAIR POOR
Boat Launch Q
Fishing Area
Parking Area (limited) Q
Portable Toilet QQ
Access Drive
- a
I
• ESTATE ROUTE 106
Vicinity Map Location Map
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Facility Inventory I Appendix A 89
UnionBoat Ramp
111116
u Jf
-0. _
.. •�h.. 44 a4�M1K�:;�-}L"r..M1 1 - ,ti IdfiC
Access Drive Boat Launch Concrete Launch f }
PROPOSED IMPROVEMENTS
Amenities Maintenance / Operations
Pier / Dock
Gangway
New launch
Pave access drive
Improved parking
San-!-can enclosure
New park entry sign
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Facility Inventory I Appendix A 90
••
Union Park
IS54 Inventory Map #6
Address E 61 Port Townsend Street, Union
Parcel Number 32232-32-60010,32232-52-03021
Size 1.92 acres
Ownership/Deed Restriction Mason County
Status Developed Community Park
Development Costs $376,740
Comments Union Park was deeded to the County on September 14, 1990 by Mural and Delmer
Fassio for$1.00.
01
EXISTING FACILITIES
Amenities Condition
GOOD FAIR POOR
Ball Field (�
Picnicking Areas
Restroom
Play Area QQ
Picnic Shelter 0
Barbecues
Basketball Court O
Parking Area
Crushed Rock Pathways 0
Stone planters
Fencing
r
i a
m�
r
•
<: r
Vicinity Map Location Map
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Facility Inventory I Appendix A 91
-�t
ram:
Basketball Court & Restroom Play Area Picnic Shelter
PROPOSED IMPROVEMENTS
Amenities Maintenance / Operations
Resurface basketball court Grafitti removal
Replace split rail fence Weed control- lawn
New park entrance sign Power wash picnic tables
Renovate Restroom Pressure wash building roofs
Renovate ballfield More wood chips for play area
Shelter level with surrounding grade
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Facility Inventory I Appendix A 92
••
Walker Park
IS54 Inventory Map # 19
Address SE 2400 Walker Park Road, Shelton
Parcel Number 32021-43-60040
Size 5.04 acres
Ownership/Deed Restriction Mason County
Status Developed Community Park
Development Costs $417,140
Comments Walker Park was deeded to the County on November 2, 1916 by Puget Mill.
EXISTING FACILITIES
Amenities Condition
GOOD FAIR POOR
Hand Carry Boat Launch Q
Fishing Area
Picnic Shelter l�
Picnicking Areas Q
Barbecues
Passive Use Areas !�
Play Area
Restrooms
Walking/Jogging Paths
Parking Area 0
Caretaker's Residence
Bridges QQ
3g�
SEWq�kERPkRD
Vicinity Map Location Map
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Facility Inventory I Appendix A 93
Walker Park
I
Hammersley Inlet Access Plcninc Shelter Play Area
PROPOSED IMPROVEMENTS In
Amenities Maintenance / Operations
New park entrance & interpretive signs Refill wood chips in play area
New information kiosk Shelter- repaint & clean roof
Reconfigure entrance(s)
New site furnishing- trash & water fountain
Eliminate basketball court
Utility shack- new roof & siding
Replace chain link fence barrier
Stairs or Ramp to the beach
Renovate restrooms
Road Culvert Replacement
New picnic shelter (basketball court area)
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Facility Inventory I Appendix A 94
APPENDIX B
Proposed Parks and Trail Facilities
Mason County Proposed New Parks and Trail Facilities
Parl(Name Scoping I Feasibility Cost Commissioner District
Water Cooling Facility / Spray Court $15,000.00 To be determined
Shooting Range $30,000.00 To be determined
Lower Hood Canal Discovery Trail $15,000.00 2
Shelton to Belfair Trail $20,000.00 1,3
Mason Lake to Twanoh State Park Trail $30,000.00 1
Belfair to Allyn Trail $30,000.00 1
Shelton to MCRA Trail $20,000.00 3
North Bay Trail $20,000.00 unknown
Camp Govey Trail $20,000.00 unknown
Total Scoping/Feasibility Cost $200,000.00
Projects Proposed by Other Mason County Public Agencies
• Water Wheel /Sweetwater Park
• Indoor Sports Complex
• Kennedy Creek Trail Extension
• Romance Trail Extension
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Proposed Parks and Trail Facilities I Appendix B 96
APPENDIX C
Public Participation Plan
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Mason County I Parks, Recreation, Open Space & Trails Plan
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Public Participation Plan I Appendix C 98
Introduction
Parks and recreation contribute to a high quality of life by providing a full range of recreational opportunities for all
segments of the population from competitive activities, such as sports and games, to more passive activities, such
as walking and enjoying nature. Attractive, well-maintained recreation areas also contribute to the quality of life by
providing open space, wildlife habitat,and ground water recharge areas.
Mason County is updating its Parks, Recreation, Open Space and Trails (PROST) Plan as identified within the
Washington State Growth Management Act(GMA) and in accordance with the Washington State Recreation and
Conservation Plan.
We believe that an inclusive planning process is vital to the success of any effort to provide recreation
opportunities and outdoor amenities within our community. Planning that engages people, supporters and
opponents alike, will help ensure that the right actions are taken for the right reasons at the right time.
Fundamental to good planning is the collection of local insights and perspectives. Good, quantitative information
will strengthen the results of this effort, helping to inform decisions, and leading to the development of a plan that
is truly representative of our community.
Who
The Mason County Parks and Recreation Department in collaboration with local tribes, the Shelton Metropolitan
Park District, local agencies and groups, elected officials, the Parks and Trails Advisory Board and the general
public.
What
We're drafting an updated master Parks, Recreation, Open Space and Trails(PROST) plan for Mason County.This
plan will replace the 2013 Parks and Trails Comprehensive Plan with a single guiding document that will help in
decision making, project priority and grant funding over the next 10 years.
When completed, the plan will include:
• A public involvement processes, including timely communications with citizens and elected officials
through web updates, presentations and various forms of public outreach
• Community driven evaluation approaches and comprehensive needs assessment
• Identification of potential inter-agency and public/private partnerships
• Evaluation of land, facilities,and program needs, maintenance services, park management, operations
funding,as well as recreation program evaluations
• Review of local population trends and regional inputs
• GIS Mapping with updated figures and reference documents
• An updated vision intended to guide identified goals and objectives as they relate to Mason County parks,
trails, programs, and open space.
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Public Participation Plan I Appendix C 99
Why
1. Parks, recreation,open space and trails are important to our community.
Parks, trails, and open spaces are an essential part of each day for our community, as they provide opportunities
for recreation, transportation, connecting with nature, and help maintain a healthy environment.Access to
parks and recreation is an important right of every citizen in the community,and proximity to these resources is
an important factor in increasing physical activity which results in a healthier population. In addition, the natural
resources conserved by open lands help provide clean air and clean water in the region, as well as wildlife
habitat and agricultural land that enrich our community.
2. It's time to update and integrate existing plans.
Currently, two primary plans guide the development of parks, trails and open space. The 2008 Mason County
Regional Trails Plan and the 2013 Mason County Parks and Trails Comprehensive Plan. In the years since these
two plans were adopted, Mason County has updated the Comprehensive Plan (2017) and drafted an update
to adopted Parks and Recreation Plans to better address the roles of Open Space for public benefit(2018).
The Washington State Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan has also been updated through the Washington
State Recreation and Conservation Office, complete with a 2021 manual for the development of planning
policies and guidelines. At this same time, Mason County's undeveloped land is coming under greater pressure
to accommodate new growth, and existing parks, trails, and open space are experiencing increasing
recreational use.
3. Growing populations, levels of understanding and evolving needs.
Since 2010, some 8,000 new residents have moved into Mason County. In this same time, new studies have
come out regarding level of service needs; the roles of corridors and buffer zones that provide wildlife
movement between areas; changes in technology; environmental health; social equity;and changing
demographics and associated needs.
We believe that it is our responsibility to respond to these changes. To better serve the community our guiding
plans need to reflect the needs of our residents and their vision for the future. Many of our 2008 and 2013
goals and objectives have also been accomplished or shifted in the past 10 years.The new PROST plan will help
Mason County to realize its goals while supporting environmental stewardship and sustainable, long-term
growth.
When and How
To launch this project, we are engaging in a multi-faceted outreach process that will provide County residents
and patrons a variety of opportunities to participate in the plan development. In Fall of 2021, the County is
hosting a range of community engagement events that will function as the public project kickoff and the start
of the community outreach effort. Regular updates and opportunities for participation will also be made
available on the Mason County website.The following page has a project timeline with a target adoption date
in February 2022.
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Public Participation Plan I Appendix C 100
APPENDIX D
Public Involvement - Survey Responses
Response Counts
Completion Rate: 63.4%
Complete 502
Partial 290
Totals: 792
1. What are the types of recreational amenities/facilities that you most
regularly frequent or use?(This question is not intended to be specific to
Mason County. Please check all that apply for you/your household.)
100
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Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Public Involvement—Survey Responses I Appendix D 102
2. What are the types of recreational amenities/facilities that you most
regularly use and value?(Please check all that apply for you/your
household) - Text Analysis
Value Percent Responses
Unpaved Nature Trails ■ 76.4% 475
Walking/Biking Trails ■ 76.2% 474
Open Space/Natural Habitats . 64.5% 401
Canoeing/Kayaking/Paddleboarding 42.8% 266
Neighborhood Parks (smaller, walking distance) ' 38.6% 240
Picnic Shelters/Covered Areas 38.1% 237
Community Parks (larger service areas) ' 32.6% 203
Off-leash Dog Areas ' 28.6% 178
Children's Play Structures 25.9% 161
Shooting Ranges (archery, rifle, pistol) I 22.0% 137
Spray Park/Water Playground I 19.0% 118
Community Recreation Centers I 16.6% 103
Outdoor Sport Courts (basketball, tennis, pickleball, etc.) I 15.1% 94
Soccer/Football Fields I 13.8% 86
Youth Fields (base balUsoftball) I 13.0% 81
Skate/BMX Parks I 6.4% 40
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Public Involvement—Survey Responses Appendix D 103
3. Let us know if you currently travel outside the Mason County for any
of these amenities or any others we may have missed?
equestrian harbn- trail biking
parks riding horse state
travel m 1 ason
• kitsap dog
areas r
a
I S
Olympia
area
Olympic park
cou n
national thurston forest water spray
ResponselD Response
15 Mostly outside of mason county. Mason county facilities are insufficient.
24 Olympic Peninsula trails and trailhead amenities, eg., toilet
28 Travel out of county for bike trails.
51 Sometimes
57 Pierce county for Foothills bike a nd walk trail . Also Gig Harbor for trails to
sound same for discovery trail in Kitsap.
59 Kennedy Creek, Oyster bay,
70 We travel to Lake Sylvia in Montesano with our family as well.
75 hiking trails, senior volleyball
77 Yes, often to the west olympia spray park, Lacey area dog park, and the Lacey
RAC fields amd softball area.
80 Yes
85 Yes. Mason County needs water activities such as a spray park for kids and
out door pool besides the YMCA
92 Yes.
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Public Involvement—Survey Responses I Appendix D 104
ResponselD Response
99 State parks like ocean shores west port Schafer state lake sylvia
104 Handicap accessible shoreline & nature trails. Family friendly archery ranges!
105 Yes, particularly in the greater Olympia area
108 Yes. State parks for camping.
109 Yes
112 Olympic National Forest, Olympic National Park, and State Parks within
Mason County
116 Blewett pass, Mt Rainier area, Naches, Mt St Helen's area
118 Yes, we travel out of county for these amenities
121 yes
122 1 have to resort 5to open timber property or the forest for shooting.
126 Travel to Thurston County.
132 We spend most of our outdoor time in the Olympic National Forest/Park out
of Lake Cushmon area.
141 Yes-- McLane Nature Trail, Mt. Ellinor, Staircase,
142 Yes
146 yes, Olympia, nisqually and tacoma/ruston
147 Boat ramps are important along with parking.
149 1 sometimes go to Friend's Landing, Preacher's Slough, Vance Creek Park or
the Bishop Athletic Complex (Basich Trailway?) in Grays Harbor. I go to
Schafer State Park in Mason County a couple times a week.
150 Thurston County's wonderful Chehalis Western trail for bike riding and
walking. Off leash dog parks outside of Mason County. Water Parks outside
Mason County
151 Out and about
152 1 almost always travel out of Mason County to recreate. I did not know any of
these parks existed. During the heat wave I found a state park on a lake in
Mason County.
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Public Involvement—Survey Responses I Appendix D 105
ResponselD Response
157 We visit the parks in Thurston and Pierce County regularly as well.
167 Yes, I currently travel outside of Mason County for these amenities.
171 None
178 1 do, regularly
180 Restroom Facilities
193 RV camping
199 We travel to spray parks as well as shooting ranges.
204 Yes. Kitsap and Jefferson counties. I did not know most of these Mason
county parks existed.
208 Boat ramps to salt and fresh water
215 Canoeing
217 Off road motorcycle riding at Tahuya.
219 Campgrounds in and outside of Mason county.
220 Spray park, youth fields
221 1 have traveled to Lewis County for spray park for children
224 Disc golf courses. Swimming access.
226 1 travel outside mason county to visit mountain biking and hiking trails, as
well as large parks with walking trails and children's playgrounds.
227 Off leash dog park, splash pads, lots we don't have here in mason cc
235 Yes
240 We travel outside Mason County to go to the Gateway 360 park and other
parks for mountain biking. https://www.keypenparks.com/360-traiLs.htmL
Mason County should have a park like Gateway 360. It would draw people to
the county for recreation. Mason County should consider implementing
conservation futures to acquire parks land.
https:Happ.Leg.wa.gov/rcw/defauLt.aspx?cite=84.34.240
243 Yes, we travel outside Mason County for these amenities.
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Public Involvement—Survey Responses I Appendix D 106
ResponselD Response
246 We head to Olympia for their larger skate park.
247 1 live in Mason County but a lot of the recreation I do is in Kitsap County
because they have more facilities. I also use less busy roads in Mason County
for bicycling and running because we don't have dedicated trails.
249 All of these things!!! I rarely stay in this county for my activities. Other than
national parks
250 We travel to Olympia for the dog park.
251 Yes
252 Did it not occur to you to list "none of the above" as an option?
253 Bike Trails!
256 No, I don't travel outside the county for these amenities. I do enjoy scenic
views when I drive outside the county and believe they contribute
significantly to my enjoyment of the area.
258 South Kitsap Skate Park, Olympic National Forest/Park for trails.
261 We travel outside Mason county for walking trails, parks, great family areas
that are family friendly and clean. We travel to yelm to use the family park-
water park, we take our family to shooting areas out of our county that are
accessible-safe!! We need a shooting range since Mason county is a country-
hunting oriented area..We need safe clean family areas that are not being
over ran by homeless. We play sports with our family at local fields, take our
kids in the bathrooms to find naked homeless cleaning themselves or doing
drugs...very family friendly
266 Yes
267 Yes, we travel outside the county for shooting ranges, spray water parks and
bike trails.
272 Pretty much stay and play in Madom County!
273 Yes very limited shooting ra ges in Mason county.
275 Spray park
278 A good dog park. The one in shelton is ok, but needs a covered bench
279 Yes, travel to Thurston County- especially for play structures for kids
282 Yes, travel outside the county for hiking trails and unpaved walking paths
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Public Involvement-Survey Responses I Appendix D 107
ResponselD Response
288 Archery range
289 To walk our 7 pound yorkie on nature trails we go to Silverdale. We can't
wait for the dog friendly trails at Theler
290 Running walking trails
291 Bike trails
294 A walk path by the water downtown.
295 yes
301 Disc golf courses in and outside of Mason County.
304 Equestrian trails!!!! We will be losing access to Kennedy Creek soon. Mason
County has a thriving equestrian community who love riding on trails.
305 Youth soccer fields
307 Equestrian trails
308 Horseback riding and camping
309 Bridle paths and hiking trails
311 1 travel to open spaces to ride my horses. We need more trails for horseback
riding.
312 Horseback riding trails.
313 We travel to Grays Harbor and Thurston county for many of these things.
Definitely need trails that horses are allowed on.
314 Equestrian trail very large equestrian population in mason county that
contributes a lot to cleaning and maintaining areas to keep safe for all horse
bike hunting etc.
315 swimming pool
316 Equestrian trails and facilities
320 Yes I do travel outside mason county.
322 trails for horse back riding , public areas for Equestrienne events that were
once held at Fairground arena. If Back Country Horsemen can get crews
together to clear and maintain trails, so many do use them.
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Public Involvement—Survey Responses I Appendix D 108
ResponselD Response
323 We travel all over to go horse riding. Thurston, Kitsap, Clark, Grays Harbor,
etc and Eastern Washington and Oregon.
324 Why aren't there any horse trails listed? I want horse riding trails and I want
our Fair back.
325 Yes sometimes. I love places to take my horses also. I noticed that wasn't
Listed
326 1 come to Ride horses in the county. I travel from Indiana.
327 Horse camping and trail riding with horses
328 Horseback riding
329 Horse 0 back riding?There are 60 people I no have horses some have 1.
Some have 4.
331 Yes
332 Horse trails
333 We are Mason County Park Host - past, present and ongoing.
338 Equestrian trails.
339 Horse trails
340 yes
342 Horse trails
343 1 travel to Kitsap for tennis courts and pickleball courts
345 Horse back riding on trails
347 1 have travelled outside of Mason County often for safe walking/biking trails
as well as for many of the other types of amenities/facilities.
351 Trails to ride my horse on. We travel all over Washington and Oregoen on
trails for horses.
354 Free boat launch...
356 All of them I highlighted except for canoeing and kayaking.
359 Have traveled to Grays Harbor and Thurston county's trails for hikes.
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Public Involvement—Survey Responses I Appendix D 109
ResponselD Response
361 Yes, horseback riding
363 Horseback riding trails that are nonmotorized access. Keep Kennedy creek
area open to hiking, riding, biking
368 Yes I travel outside Mason county for equestrian friendly trails
375 Yes
377 1 mostly recreate in Mason County but sometimes in Grays Harbor. They are
close. There is nothing above that listed equestrians. We need more trails
that we don't have to be concerned with running into a bicycle.
378 1 often ho to the Chehalis Western trail to ride.
381 Grays Harbor , Thurston and Lewis County
382 Horse back riding in Mason county
383 Outside of country for horse trails for family and pleasure and trail events
for computation events with log drop jumps.
385 Yes
390 multipurpose trails for horseback riding and bicycling
392 Main activities are horseback riding, mushroom hunting, hiking, and kayaking.
I love that Lake Isabell park is not open to motorized vehicles and allows
horses. I occasionally go to Capitol forest for the Equestrian facilities and
mushrooms.
393 Regularly travel to Tacoma, Olympia or Gig Harbor to use the trails for
running.
395 We currently go to Olympia to bicycle on the Chehalis Western trail. It would
be nice to have something like that lower to us.
397 Yes and you missed horse riding trails
401 Spray/water park
402 1 love visiting Twanoh because of the hiking trails
403 We frequently visit Olympia, Tumwater, Lacey and Gig Harbor for our toddler
to play at playgrounds. We do visit MCRA as well.
410 Beach access and lakes. This is my number one concern.
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Public Involvement—Survey Responses I Appendix D 110
ResponselD Response
412 Capital Forest for mountain biking and looking for safe roads to ridey road
bike on
413 National Parks on occasion.
415 Yes, water parks.
418 We travel to olympia and Chehalis for their awesome spray parks! This
would be a great addition to shelton
419 Equestrian trail. Non-motorized trails.
424 1 use Walking and biking trails in Thurston county
427 Yes. Our family likes to hike all over Washington.
429 Horse back riding trails and indoor riding arenas.
430 Shooting range
431 A fully functional full length/lap swimming pool is definitely missing in
Mason County. The high school pool is in a very poor and unhealthy condition
and cannot withstand the increasing population of Mason County, and the
new YMCA pool is not a lap pool. A full length/lap pool is something that
everyone can benefit from no matter age or condition and has many uses:
Learning how to swim (a vital skill), water aerobics for elderly/less mobile,
swimming team practice, water has a very calming effect (good for stress
and anxiety), and it would provide the space needed for the population size.
Therefore, a lap pool is in my opinion a very important investment for
wellbeing in the community.
439 Yes, usually in the Olympic National forest area.
445 Yes, we routinely go outside the county to hike.
446 Youth football was played outside Mason County. I feel some of the games
should have utilized our facilities!
451 Yes
452 Yes
455 Trail between Belfair library and the Salmon Center.
456 There are no bike routes that I have found in Mason Co where I feel
comfortable biking with my children who are early learning riders and in bike
carrier. We travel to the chehalis western trail. I would really love rails to
trails out here.
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Public Involvement-Survey Responses I Appendix D 111
ResponselD Response
457 Yes
458 Yes we travel to Thurston County.
468 1 travel out of Mason County to bike on non-motorized biking trails.
469 1 prefer to stay local.
472 We travel to Lacey to the large off leash dog park. The only dog park in
Shelton is very small.
474 We travel for shooting ranges and spray Parks
476 1 live in King County, but have a home in Hood Canal and spend as much time
as possible there. In King Co. We have some great off leash dog parks. When
I'm at Hood Canal, I love to hike in Twanoh state park and Alderbrook nature
trails. We need lots more trails that are dog friendly like these. My kids are
into mountain biking so trails for that would be great.
477 Dosewallips, Port Orchard, Port Angeles, Fort Warden, Manchester, Key
Peninsula, Tacoma, Centralia, Elma, Chehalis, Washington/Oregon Coast
480 Yes, I go to Kitsap and Thurston county areas.
482 Yes
483 currently travel to Thurston county
488 Yes we do
491 We travel to Olympia for children's play structures and water play fountains
492 no we do not travel outside of mason county unless we are going to the
ocean.
494 Community gardens!
495 NO
502 Yes, travel for walking trails and picnic area's
517 Swimming areas and Disc parks! We travel to Olympia for dog park large
enough to accommodate large and small dogs.
523 McLane Nature Trail
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Public Involvement-Survey Responses I Appendix D 112
ResponselD Response
527 Sometimes.. travel to the north because we don't have enough in North
Mason. Need more parks/trails
530 This summer/fall I've traveled to Thurston, Grays Harbor and Kitsap counties
to pursue outdoor activities.
532 We get all of this here but also up into the Olympics or down to the Portland
area for these activities as well.
535 Yes
536 Olympic Forest and Olympia
537 Biking Trails, Spray Park, Outdoor Basketball Park, Children's Hands on
Museum.
538 need shooting areas so people don't shoot in random spots, and dont let
neighbors cry when they build next to a range
547 Yes, temporary winter ice skating rink, roller skating
549 Bike trails Go to western Chehalis bike trail. Paved and away from traffic.
552 yes
557 Yes Note: Outdoor Sports Courts field doesn't work
562 All over our beautiful Washington State
563 We have to go to olympia sometimes
566 handicapped parking, I frequently am shut out of parks due to a lack of
parking, also would be fun to invite the steam mini railroad people to have
tracks thru wooded areas without trails and demo gardens for food
production and natural plants so that parts of the park are educational and
inform about the eco system and what is happening with the park, plant id
etc
569 dock fishing
579 Yes, we typically frequent many other amenities in other counties
583 Yes Do travel outside of Mason county for everything I checked above
591 We use a lot of state parks for access to water and trails. Hoodsport trails,
Lilliwaup tidelands, Dosiwallup, and Twanoh
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Public Involvement-Survey Responses I Appendix D 113
ResponselD Response
595 Yes, I leave Mason County to go to splash pads, playgrounds, and other
walking trails.
596 Swimming pool in North Mason
598 Yes I travel to Kitsap, Pierce, And Thurston counties to visit these types of
amenities.
600 Yes, we travel to Bremerton for some
604 Yes, we travel to Kitsap county.
605 Go out of town to a shooting range.
607 Mostly travel out of Mason County for most of them since North Mason is
extremely under served, especially Tahuya.
614 Yes for all
615 Yes, Kitsap, Green Man, Pt. no pt., Birding areas
616 Also use kitsap county parks
620 Mt biking trails
623 Go to Olympic Nat'l Parks= Staircase, Second Beach, etc
631 Yes, often go to Gig Harbor.
637 Sometimes I have gone up to Clallam county for visits because there is more
opportunity for walking up there, including the Olympic Discovery Trail.
649 Paved bike/roller-blading trails
652 Quiet and secluded hiking, not through people's yards.
653 1 do.
658 1 have to use these facilities in Kitsap County.
660 Disc golf courses are a great use of space and very family friendly. Shelton
Springs is a great course and it would be nice to have one closer to Belfair.
Mtn bike and walking trails we regularly visit in Kitsap, Thurston and pierce
county.
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Public Involvement-Survey Responses I Appendix D 114
ResponselD Response
672 Yes, since the elementary school closed their play area to the public, there
are very few &extremely small play areas/structures for children in n. Mason
unless you have a discover pass
677 Travel to Kitsap county
679 Port Orchard Howe Dog Park, Clear Creek walking trails in Silverdale, Belfair
State Park
681 Sometimes
691 Do not travel outside of Mason County
694 Kitsap county, too
704 Yes.
705 1 have to travel to port orchard for off lease
710 Disc Golf Courses
716 Yes, we have to because our area does not have enough of what we need we
go into Kitsap Co. for many of the parks for children to enjoy.
717 1 would like to see better waterway access as I have to travel to other areas
for that
719 We travel to pierce county for children's play structures.
724 We go to natural areas in Kitsap, Jefferson, Thurston, and Gray's Harbor as
well. Water and estuary access (without environmental damage).
725 Yes do travel outside of Mason County
734 We will travel outside of mason county for all of these things
735 1 use bike trails in Lacey and Olympia.
742 Yes - there are NO parks (aside from trails) in the Belfair area. We HAVE to
Leave the area if we want to experience something other than the State park.
743 Open space/Natural Habitats, Unpaved Nature Trails, Walking/Bike Trails
744 No
747 No
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Public Involvement-Survey Responses I Appendix D 115
ResponselD Response
752 yes we do
754 Yes we travel all over WA state
757 Disc golf
760 Disc golf courses
762 bike trails
764 Equestrian trails would be much appreciated and please don't put a lot of
multi-use trails with bicycles. We are afraid to use trails in other areas when
bicycles are included (like the 360 park on the Key Peninsula) with other
users because they ride dangerously, run over walkers and horse riders.
Please dedicate trails if bicycle users must be added. Or leave them out they
already have so many places to go.
769 Yes for dog park and walk trails
772 Swimming and water access
774 Yes I do
778 Visit state parks, national parks and lands
783 yes. Particularly the National parks in Washington and across the nation
787 Olympic National Forest and Park
790 Bike trails for kids, spray park
791 Swimming pools/ human interaction (all parks are dead in this county)
802 Capital Forest for Equine trails
803 Please help the Sweetwater Creek Park.
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Public Involvement-Survey Responses I Appendix D 116
4. How frequently do you visit the following parks or recreational
facilities within Mason County?
Semi-
Daily Weekly Monthly yearly Yearly Rarely/Never Responses
Sandhill County
Park 6 32 36 39 23 349 485
Count 1.2% 6.6% 7.4% 8.0% 4.7% 72.0%
Row %
Hunter Park
Count 2 5 20 20 23 371 441
Row % 0.5% 1.1% 4.5% 4.5% 5.2% 84.1%
Rendsland County
Park 2 2 19 25 18 364 430
Count 0.5% 0.5% 4.4% 5.8% 4.2% 84.7%
Row %
Menard's Landing
Count 3 8 20 26 30 344 431
Row % 0.7% 1.9% 4.6% 6.0% 7.0% 79.8%
Foothills County
Park 2 3 16 24 28 354 427
Count 0.5% 0.7% 3.7% 5.6% 6.6% 82.9%
Row%
Union Boat Ramp
Count 3 12 44 105 51 234 449
Row % 0.7% 2.7% 9.8% 23.4% 11.4% 52.1%
Mason Lake
County Park 2 6 45 109 82 215 459
Count 0.4% 1.3% 9.8% 23.7% 17.9% 46.8%
Row %
Watson Wildwood
View Park 1 1 9 19 13 380 423
Count 0.2% 0.2% 2.1% 4.5% 3.1% 89.8%
Row %
Truman Glick
County Park 5 13 26 32 45 315 436
Count 1.1% 3.0% 6.0% 7.3% 10.3% 72.2%
Row %
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Public Involvement-Survey Responses I Appendix D 117
Semi-
Daily Weekly Monthly yearly Yearly Rarely/Never Responses
Sunset Bluff Park
Count 1 3 18 22 26 357 427
Row % 0.2% 0.7% 4.2% 5.2% 6.1% 83.6%
Mason County
Skatepark 1 2 13 20 14 381 431
Count 0.2% 0.5% 3.0% 4.6% 3.2% 88.4%
Row %
Mason County
Recreation Area 6 29 47 90 46 227 445
Count 1.3% 6.5% 10.6% 20.2% 10.3% 51.0%
Row %
Oakland Bay
Historical Park 1 6 26 77 40 293 443
Count 0.2% 1.4% 5.9% 17.4% 9.0% 66.1%
Row %
Philips Lake
County Park 2 6 19 35 32 340 434
Count 0.5% 1.4% 4.4% 8.1% 7.4% 78.3%
Row %
Latimer's Landing
Park 1 10 34 39 37 320 441
Count 0.2% 2.3% 7.7% 8.8% 8.4% 72.6%
Row %
Jacoby Shorecrest
County Park 1 4 16 22 22 362 427
Count 0.2% 0.9% 3.7% 5.2% 5.2% 84.8%
Row %
Walker County
Park 2 15 54 80 39 260 450
Count 0.4% 3.3% 12.0% 17.8% 8.7% 57.8%
Row %
Coulter Creek
Park 1 5 23 35 23 341 428
Count 0.2% 1.2% 5.4% 8.2% 5.4% 79.7%
Row %
Union County Park
Count 5 6 36 41 39 296 423
Row % 1.2% 1.4% 8.5% 9.7% 9.2% 70.0%
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Public Involvement-Survey Responses I Appendix D 118
5. Where would you like to see Mason County focus its resources when
working to maintain and construct trails?(please select up to 4 areas to
prioritize)
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Value Percent Responses
Nature Trails (soft surface) . 67.7% 365
Trails that link with other existing trails (trails network) ■ 58.80/. 317
Paved trails for walking and biking ' 47.1% 254
Long distance trails (5+ miles) ' 44.9% 242
Trail corridors that link local communities with regional ' 29.9% 161
destinations
Exercise Trails 28.0% 151
Trails that improve routes to schools I 13.2% 71
Other - Write In 10.0% 54
Other - Write In Count
Horse trails 5
Totals 53
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Public Involvement—Survey Responses I Appendix D 119
Other - Write In Count
Equestrian trails 2
ACA access, short hikes 1
Abandoned Train tracks 1
All of the trail use listed 1
Bike path from Belfair State Park to town 1
Equestrian 1
Equestrian 1
Equestrian friendly trails 1
Equestrian trails 1
Equestrian use trails 1
Equine trails 1
Homeless issues 1
Horse 1
Horse Trails PLEASE 1
Horse riding trails 1
Horse trails-no bikes allowed 1
Horseback riding 1
Horseback riding 1
1 would love to see a rails to trials from Shelton to Matlock/Mill 5 1
Improve pedestrian access to Walker Park along Walker Park Road 1
Links w/public transit 1
None! 1
Totals 53
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Public Involvement—Survey Responses I Appendix D 120
Other - Write In Count
ORV trails 1
Pave green diamond rr tracks 1
Paved shoulders on arterials, Brockdale/McReavy to Union as example. 1
Riding trails 1
Secure Sunset Bluff Park 1
Sweetwater Creek 1
Sweetwater Park 1
Swimming areas on lakes 1
Theler 1
Tie in old railroad tracks as transport areas 1
Trail from belfair state park into town to walk or bike from rec area 1
Trails that all horses 1
Trails that are kept up and monitored for illegal or harmful activities 1
Trails with access for equines 1
Walking paths along roadways like the North Shore Road 1
Want to see more horse trails please 1
anywhere a horse can go. 1
between Belfair library and the Salmon Center 1
dedicated horse and walker trails that don't include bikes. 1
equestrian 1
estuaries 1
horse trails 1
off road to include horseback riding 1
Totals 53
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Public Involvement-Survey Responses I Appendix D 121
Other - Write In Count
play scapes for all age children &families 1
waterfront areas, look at Ruston 1
Totals 53
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Public Involvement—Survey Responses I Appendix D 122
6. Mason County has a working list of proposed or planned trails that
we hope to construct in the future. Please help us prioritize these
projects by identifying up to 3 of your top preferences.
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Value Percent Responses
Shelton to Belfair Trail r 48.1% 229
Mason Lake Park to Twanoh State Park RL 44.1% 210
Belfair to Allyn Trail 36.8% 175
Kennedy Creek Salmon Trail Extension i 33.0% 157
Sweetwater Creek Water Wheel Trail r 28.6% 136
Shelton to MCRA Park Trail 27.7% 132
North Bay Trail - Allyn to the tip of Case Inlet ' i 19.3% 92
Camp Govey Trail I 16.0% 76
North Bay Trail 6.3% 30
Menards Landing to harvey Rendsland Park Trail 4.4% 21
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Public Involvement-Survey Responses I Appendix D 123
7. The County needs...
Strongly No Strongly
Agree Agree Preference Disagree Disagree Responses
Amenity Specific
Parking 92 189 181 13 5 480
Count 19.2% 39.4% 37.7% 2.7% 1.0%
Row %
Off-Leash Dog Park
Count 101 152 190 32 14 489
Row % 20.7% 31.1% 38.9% 6.5% 2.9%
Picnic Areas/Shade
Structures 121 248 106 15 3 493
Count 24.5% 50.3% 21.5% 3.0% 0.6%
Row %
Undeveloped
Natural Areas/Open 234 181 63 12 9 499
Space 46.9% 36.3% 12.6% 2.4% 1.8%
Count
Row %
Support Amenities
(bathrooms, 185 223 76 12 4 500
Lighting, recycling, 37.0% 44.6% 15.2% 2.4% 0.8%
bike racks, drinking
fountains, etc.)
Count
Row %
Ball Fields (soccer,
baseball, football, 65 176 196 37 9 483
etc.) 13.5% 36.4% 40.6% 7.7% 1.9%
Count
Row %
Sport Courts
(basketball, tennis, 85 176 192 24 10 487
pickleball, etc.) 17.5% 36.1% 39.4% 4.9% 2.1%
Count
Row %
Youth
Programs/Camps 178 199 107 5 5 494
Count 36.0% 40.3% 21.7% 1.0% 1.0%
Row %
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Public Involvement-Survey Responses Appendix D 124
Strongly No Strongly
Agree Agree Preference Disagree Disagree Responses
Sports Leagues (18
and over) 59 127 246 29 13 474
Count 12.4% 26.8% 51.9% 6.1% 2.7%
Row %
Urban
Trails/Sidewalks 212 201 71 12 6 502
(non-motorized) 42.2% 40.0% 14.1% 2.4% 1.2%
Count
Row %
Splash/Spray Park
Count 103 113 183 51 31 481
Row % 21.4% 23.5% 38.0% 10.6% 6.4%
Community
Center/Indoor 119 174 153 35 11 492
Facilities 24.2% 35.4% 31.1% 7.1% 2.2%
Count
Row %
Water access
facilities (boat 211 195 75 14 5 500
ramps, piers, 42.2% 39.0% 15.0% 2.8% 1.0%
beaches, etc.)
Count
Row %
Totals
Total Responses 502
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Public Involvement-Survey Responses I Appendix D 125
8. Use the space provided to expand upon answers and identify
additional improvements you would like to see over the next 10 years.
horse water Shelton belfair
areasor parks trail great
bike pa rk access love
indoor • area places
walking i a I kids
creek public
masonCOUrlty
community people
ResponselD Response
12 splash parks make no since in the North West for the 2 weeks it gets hot we
need more public access to waterfront lakes.
15 No lengthy trails as noted on previous page. Supporting existing
infrastructure most essential. Disappointed that this survey does not reflect
the interests of taxpayers and residents.
38 Continued access and improvement to Truman Glick Park
42 Turf and lights at sand hill
50 This community needs more opportunity for the youth to be supported and
keep engaged and busy. Parents need low-cost areas to take their children
or host their birthday parties. Parks also need security/cleanliness. Many
parks I have been to recently, have characters hanging around that I do not
feel comfortable letting my kids see, so we leave.
57 Trails Trails Trails.. Rail tracks from shelton to vance creel bridge
58 A trail running where old rail lines are would be cool. Indoor soccer/football
fields would be helpful.
59 Since there is legally designated water access - road ends - not implemented
- I would like to see this long overdue 'right' for citizens to enjoy their
waterfront.
68 Prioritize creating and preserving open space and public water access
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Public Involvement-Survey Responses I Appendix D 126
ResponselD Response
77 Natural space such as forested paths like the Huff and Puff, the Pandhandle
Lake trails, the big park at Lake Isabella, and Theller (allyn) park are
fantastic. I wish we had more public areas to enjoy large areas of natural
Landscapes. It would also be ideal to have spray parks located around the
county to help families enjoy cooling down without having to make an
excessive drive. Lastly, some offleash dog parks would help keep other parks
free from roaming dogs whose owners don't know where else to take them
81 Safety first, a bike lane is needed from Belfair State Park to town. The park
is a destination for many travelers/walkers, and traffic is increasing in the
area.
87 1 don't think we need to duplicate the YMCA.
92 1 think a safe place to ride bikes a lengthy distance would be great! Only
problem is the homeless. They like to hang out on trails.
99 More swings and play grounds basketball hoops and pads
108 Indoor swimming is a must!
109 ?
112 Based on the popularity, and success, of the Discovery Trail, a network of
trails for biking and hiking would be an asset for Mason County, not only for
residents but for visitors as well.
122 Shooting sports facility open to the public on a fee based/liability waiver
system
135 Expand the current walking path along Brockdale down to Oak Park. By
providing a safe walking/biking space that could free up a bus route for the
schools.
146 expand and areas unique to shelton, lakes, water ways, coves to make them
inviting. a destination
147 Also tie in railroad tracks that are not being used for anything and are
overgrown. They could be a very nice feature.
149 Your list of parks made me realize I needed to explore more. I live in SW
Mason County and there is not too much out here aside from logging roads.
Lucky to have Schafer State park nearby!
150 Rails to trails would be perfect for the old Simpson rail line from Shelton to
Dayton or Matlock. I would love to see an off leash dog park and a water
park.
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Public Involvement-Survey Responses I Appendix D 127
ResponselD Response
151 Good hygiene recreation
157 Trails linking separate neighborhoods and shopping centers would be great,
but would also love to see nature trails centered around green spaces
developed as well.
171 They should improve the above-mentioned
175 1 would love to see paved trails leading from our towns (incorporated and
unincorporated) to the rural communities, especially if they parallel
roadways. It would allow us safe walking and biking areas to go into town
without having to drive a vehicle. Think a greatly expanded version of the
Brockdale biking path. For example: a paved biking trail leading from Mason
Lake Rec to Shelton, Allyn, or Belfair. I realize such a long path is an
expensive, long term vision, but it could be done in phases.
178 Just keep doing good work. I appreciate your solicitation of input from the
community
193 Develop RV camping!
198 1 would love more opportunities for walking/hiking, sport courts, and adult
rec indoor space and leagues.
199 A splash pad would be amazing as well as a soccer field. The one on Johns
Prarie is in need of major help.
204 Hiking and biking trails for adults 3-20 miles
205 Recreational sights for families at lakes
208 The second questions states "Picnic Areas/Shade Structures" Most of the
year they are acting as rain cover structures also. For example, the ones at
Walker Park. These gazebos or shelters protect everyone from the rain so we
can use our parks year round.
213 1 would love to see an indoor 25 meter swimming pool.
216 For the ball fields, we have a fair amount, but the community needs higher
quality(i.e. turf) fields that have open access, not just when the school
district feels like it
217 Expand and even maintain existing trails at the extremely popular Tahuya
ORV riding park. Sit in Safeway parking lot and see BIG business for Belfair
every weekend,
219 More bike and walking trails. We also need public swim beaches for kids to
swim in the many lakes we have.
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Public Involvement—Survey Responses I Appendix D 128
ResponselD Response
220 We need more options in south Mason County
224 Consider negotiating management of the South Mason Youth Soccer Park
(Port of Shelton land) to upgrade, develop, and maintain it as an extension of
MCRA.
229 Mason county is growing, and needs amenities that attract regional tourists
and young professional families looking to root. We have more open space
than we know what to do with; we need developed parks and trails that have
something to offer
233 Bocce ball courts.
235 A map to ALL the Mason County park properties. Many of these are news to
me.
240 We need public freshwater swimming beaches. We need rails to trails bike
paths. We need mountain bike trails.
246 The area is generally rich with space to recreate. however, being in a small
town the opportunities for our kids to get together with other kids are
Lacking. As such community centers and youth programs are a priority for
me. Anything that can help people to connect across our community, which
tends to be quite spread out as we are rural.
247 1 would like to see longer trails, connections to existing facilities, and bike
Lanes or wider shoulders on roads. There are very few good areas for long
distance running or bicycling. I try to time my runs and bicycle rides to avoid
traffic because we have very narrow shoulders and cars that don't slow down
or move over.
249 Bike lanes! Walking from and around yacht club and city waterfront.
256 1 would like to see the county work with Mason Transit authority to provide
regular public transit access to all of the county parks.
261 Family areas, places for kids to have safe clean areas to have fun, relax.
Yelm, Point Ruston has nice kids play area- water play area. Family has a
Blast .we need a GUN-ARCHERY RANGE!!! that would also create revenue.
271 Public restrooms in many places.
278 It would be great to see a safe walking and or biking route somewhere in
Union. Other than the Alderbrook trails, which are technically private, there
is no safe place for walking.
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ResponselD Response
282 Strong preference for outdoor exercise areas that don't require special
equipment or special skills (such as tennis courts and ouckleball courts) that
tend to attract a small minority of users on the upper middle class end of
things. Would much rather see places that can &will be used by MANY
people regardless of fitness level, income level. Trails, tracks, parks, open
spaces.
289 My husband is an avid trail runner and there are very limited trails that are
safe for his trail runs in the county. I worry he'll be hit by a motorcycle or
ATV. I would love to see many trails throughout our beautiful county!
291 Water access from downtown Shelton
294 Park or trails along the water. Like how Olympia does down town.
296 Spray park- this will benefit poverty kids the most and that is greatest need.
My kids had plenty to do because we could afford it.
297 1 live by union park-someone took down the sign with park rules and ithas
never been replaced..lots of issues with people staying well into the
night..also found a guy sleeping there-Lots of atv riding-drinking-parking is
not confined to the lot and they have torn up my yard by parking
streetside..grown adults standing on the kids slide casing my backyard over
a six foot fence-with binoculars..drug deals at the end of park by the ball
courts..
299 Walking and biking trails
307 Equestrian trails
309 Many equestriannes and dog walkers and hikers use the Kennedy Creek area
for recreation. Currently the only parking is on the road. It would be nice to
see a parking lot that would have a porta potty, horse trailer parking and car
parking there. Maybe the newly aquired DNR land?
311 Bring back the mason county fairgrounds.
312 Horseback riding trails & horse trailer parking at trail heads.
314 Please keep equestrian in mind the majority of us are very responsible
community members looking to maintain our beautiful forests and
community
316 We truly need more equestrian trails/accessible areas. There are many horse
owners in mason county looking for places to ride. Our trails are becoming
slim and none.
320 Develop the fairgrounds for recreation
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ResponselD Response
323 Trails and Camps for horses
324 Horse Trails, No motor motorcycle or bikes on same trails. Bring back our
FAIR, Bring back being able to trail ride at the Fairgrounds. PLEASE O
325 I'd like to see motorized trails.. and places to hike with livestock and camp.
Thanks
326 Equestrian trails
327 We horseback riders are slowly being excluded. We need to be considered
too. We spend a lot of money on horse related goods which lead to more
sale tax dollars. We also put in a lot of volunteer hours to keep horse trails
open.
330 1 would like more horse accessible areas , Connecting trails, water fountains
or water access. It's so hard to find a place to play in the water that's not
overflowing with people as it's usually a boat launch also, and not having to
drive so far with the horses would be wonderful.
331 Walking trails around Union.
332 More horse friendly trails
333 Use of bathrooms year around. Lighting on valut toilets, inside and over the
outside door and side or pathway night time ligthing.
337 Horseback riding needs good trails. We practice Leave No Trace and take
pride and are thankful to be able to enjoy the outdoors with our beloved 4
footer friends
349 Since Mason County opted to take away the fairgrounds our youth need a
better direction to go...
351 Trails for riding my horse and hiking with my dogs
359 1 would love to see an extensive plan to coordinate trails and waterfront
availability. We have so much waterfront but not available to non property
owners. We have an abundance of forests, but lack trails to allow
appreciation.
361 Horse trails
363 Kennedy Creek trails that were established by Back country Horsemen to be
maintained, perhaps in a partnership with DNR, a green Diamond, mason
county and back country horsemen; more education to those who use the
space on where to avoid when logging.
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ResponselD Response
368 Equestrian trails
377 There are a lot of places that are set up for hikers and bikers. What about
equestrians?
378 1 real would like paved trail to do long bike rides.
381 As a equestrian I support any trails open to horses.
382 Horseback trails
383 Your missing the horse ridercommunity.
393 Definitely need some trails in Mason County
398 Very few ADA trails, or trails flat and smooth enough to push someone on
wheel chair at the north end of county. Not many boat ramps either.
402 1 really wish there were better sidewalks and trails in the urban areas
(especially near Mill Creek/Vic King road off the main highway
407 Adding paved shoulders to county roads, such as Brockdale/McReavy to
Union, Cloquallum to Elma, Shelton to Matlock etc.
410 Boat ramps and swimming areas in both fresh and salt water areas
412 trail system for road bikes and mountain bike park
413 In totality of waterfront (salt and lake) I would like to see Mason County
expand their footprint with more access and facilities.
419 Considering that Mason County is primarily a rural county I'm surprised there
wasn't more mention made of the need for non-motorized trails to be shared
by equestrians, hikers and mountain bikers.
421 Paved or unpaved trails using train tracks to a large reserve area with
walking trails possibly. Maybe green diamond has an area near Goldsboro
creek out Shelton Matlock their is a beautiful area that would just be perfect
424 The water access areas would be nice if they had a dedicated swimming
area. People swimming around boat launches is dangerous.
429 Horseback riding trails and indoor riding facilities
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ResponselD Response
431 A fully functional full length/lap swimming pool is definitely missing in
Mason County. The high school pool is in a very poor and unhealthy condition
and cannot withstand the increasing population of Mason County, and the
new YMCA pool is not a lap pool. A full length/lap pool is something that
everyone can benefit from no matter age or condition and has many uses:
Learning how to swim (a vital skill), water aerobics for elderly/less mobile,
swimming team practice, water has a very calming effect (good for stress
and anxiety), and it would provide the space needed for the population size.
Therefore, a lap pool is in my opinion a very important investment for
wellbeing in the community. I would also like to see more nature trails and
soft ground trails.
456 We travel out of county for many youth programs.
457 Community center for youth is highest need in our community in North
Mason county
470 I'd like to see walk/bike access into Belfair and Shelton. I see many people
walking on the side of our narrow roads trying to access work or other
necessities. A bike/walk Kane on the side or curb would be great!
476 I've never been to any of the parks mentioned a few questions back but
would go if they had hiking trails. When I search on my All Trails app, these
parks don't come up, at least not for hiking.
480 horseback riding areas
481 Mason county needs more public access to water that is not just for boats.
We need public beaches and a water recreational area for families
491 We would really love a splash pad. There doesn't seem to be enough play
options for younger children available in Shelton.
492 more amenities for seniors.
501 Camping places, picnic areas, covered areas
517 We like to walk Capital Land Trust at Bayshore.There are many others who,
Like us, bring their dogs for exercise. All owners are responsible and
respectful.
518 A County shooting sports range... both indoor/covered pistol and outdoor
rifle and shotgun ranges.
527 Focus on Belfair more... we always get overlooked. Sweetwater Creek/
Waterwheel would be amazing but there's maybe two people working to
block it. 100s donated to make it happen. But KVB works tirelessly on his no
growth park&trail blocking efforts.
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ResponselD Response
538 Fishing access and gun range
551 Mason County has so many Lakes, we need to provide more public access for
swimming and picnics.
566 it would be nice to have a space for musicians to jam, used to do this at the
Library in carnation after hours, but there is no where for acoustic musicians
to play and where young musicians can learn and people including us seniors
to just sit and enjoy live music
567 1 would like to see Mason County preserve what little is left of its old forests
for hiking, camping and picnicking areas. If through hiking can also be
supported by this, that is ok. Transit should support users of these areas
much like trail direct in King county.
568 Bike/Walking path from Belfair to Twanoh State park and from Belfair to
Belfair State Park
569 fishing docks/piers
570 Theler wetlands bridge repairs
591 1 check paved trails as I believe we need more handicap accessible trails.
592 An indoor youth sports facility that has batting cages
596 Sweetwater Park Handicap accessible fising
597 Interconnecting trails that connect the parks together
598 Would love to see a park with a great playground area for kids, splash pad,
picnic tables, large grassy area, and gazebo(s) to host birthdays and other
events. I have three small kids and while I love Belfair and am enjoying
raising my kids here, a nice park geared towards kids would be fabulous and
make our quality of life so much better! I travel to Gig Harbor and Bremerton
two times a week for play dates and to enjoy the parks they offer.
606 Public outdoor pickleball, 1/2 court basketball area. Specifically Belfair.
610 Great ideas!
615 So sad that Coulter Cr Mason Co Park gets trashed and has druggies
hanging out in parking area. They trash rest room and leave garbage in
parking area.
623 Since Mason CO is growing rapidly, we need to preserve more open
space/forest, beach access, trails along Hood Canal. Sweetwater Park would
be the ideal semi ruraUurban Park and save a beautiful forested habitat!
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Public Involvement-Survey Responses I Appendix D 134
ResponselD Response
637 1 would like to see more community orchards and food forests, like the one at
the Shelton United Methodist Church
652 Clean up. Holiday displays eg. Light-post decorations, seasonal"joy", more
places to dispose of trash to keep the streets clean. Bright lights to keep
illegal activities down. More patrol. Less bars and pot shops and maybe "a"
real sit-down restaurant (maybe Italian or Mediterranean lol). Town is good
at the size it is. The train bridge and road width limits the amount of traffic
we can handle.
653 I'd like to see community food forests planted and maintained, bike paths for
commuters around Mason County (especially between bus stations and
major areas for work), and restoration of old growth forests.
661 Skate park/pool
673 We particularly need to have parks that preserver our local history and
natural resources. Educational opportunities have been neglected recently.
679 Safety from homeless beggars and thieves. Adequate lighting. If you can't
provide safety and security, we can't use the parks.
686 Would love to see year-round areas for kids and seniors. Can we have more
indoor areas for inclement weather. Would love a pool in our area.
693 I/we would like to see the Theler Wetlands property acquired and restored
into the beautiful, educational property it once was. It has historic
significance, amazing birding, wild life, and nature observation opportunities
and potential. Restoring all the trails to the aquatic sites to allow for safe
access for walking, running,jogging. Photographers have endless
opportunities for every imaginable photo if the entire trail system was
restored and maintained. It would offer a destination for many, bringing
tourists dollars to our local businesses. Please consider these suggestions.
699 Trail from state park into town that bike skateboard or etc could share with
runners and walkers. Mayve continue down nortg shore as well with atleast
a patg it sidewalk off tge highway it is dangerous for waljees abd bikes to
share small edge of road.
708 Keep the homeless camp out of Shelton and clean up the one along the
tracks behind Gillis Auto
714 Mason county needs large open areas for gatherings that are nice and
maintained. And clean. With playgrounds and other outdoor activities.
716 Other places than in Shelton because Mason County is much larger than one
city.
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ResponselD Response
719 Continue to enhance the Thelar Wetland trails and play structure.
724 Development of nature spaces and access must be balanced with ecosystem
restoration and conservation. Outdoor classroom support spaces for the
encouragement and access for youth to understand the natural world they
Live in.
725 New Fairgrounds type area that can support multiple events, music venues,
horse events, dog events, robotics, learning Center, technical and physical.
730 1 would love somewhere to safely take my dogs for walks. There aren't any
good places for walking in this area that aren't on trails.
734 More walking/hiking options and play grounds
737 Indoor recreational opportunities for the North Mason area.
741 Secure and Close Sunset Bluff Park during hours of darkness. Post signs
reflecting the closures and warning signs. Finish turn around area at Park
and place signs no Parking in Turn around area. I live several parcels from
the park, and many of the visitors are using the park for it's intent.
743 Accommodations - hotels to support additional activities the county
develops.
747 Would like to see a community size covered area @ Union County Park and
improvements to the Union Boat Ramp such as porta potty, parking and
swimming area.
754 Better bike trails, wider shoulders on high traffic roads
756 Belfair-Tahuya walk/bicycle loop trail Sweetwater Creek ADA park Other
ADA trail/parks
757 More disc golf
758 There are no amenities in Drwatto!
762 people will use trails and bike paths if they exist, sports are important for all
ages but ball fields and facilities need to be maintained. The popularity of
electric bikes is expanding, ebike trails for the hills would be great.
764 Please consider all residents and don't dedicate the majority of resources to
kids and bicycles. Happy or them to have their share but they seem to
always benfit disproportionately. This is a rural county and I personally
would like to preserve the rural character focusing on nature and trails and
not on urban style splash parks and soccer fields.
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Public Involvement-Survey Responses I Appendix D 136
ResponselD Response
765 Sidewalks!!!
771 Covered multi-use area in Union County Park
772 Walkable and Bikable safe passage throughout County. More Water access.
773 It would be great for our county to acquire the soccer park next to MCRA.
The fields need experienced management. They are currently dangerous to
play on. Our kids need better facilities to compete. Our kids play league year
round and our fields our an embarrassment. Please consider this.
778 The Belfair area needs to provide access to it's natural amenities. We have
plenty of ball fields and such that provide options for local sports leagues. It
would be awesome for the County to support Belfair's popular Theler
Wetlands by expanding access up Sweetwater Creek. This also would
preserve a piece of our history.
791 Hundreds of other improvements listed needed other than the ones
mentioned. It's seems you mentioned all, but.
798 Mason county improvement should be focused on the needs of the natural
habitat and endangered wildlife, as opposed to the wants of people.
802 Equine trail systems with adequate parking for many truck &trailers with
bathroom facilities and mounting blocks, possibly temporary hitching area
803 Please help the Sweetwater Creek Park.
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Public Involvement-Survey Responses I Appendix D 137
9. What are some of the existing barriers or reasons why you may not
use available recreational facilities or participate in hosted parks and
recreational programs?
75
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Value Percent Responses
Don't know what's available/where facilities are located . 58.8% 288
Security/Safety ■ 39.0% 191
Amenities are too far away/not available ■ 30.0% 147
Poor maintenance/Cleanliness ■ 28.4% 139
Facilities are overcrowded/booked ■ 18.8% 92
Too busy/not a priority ■ 11.6% 57
Poor Accessibility/ADA ■ 9.2% 45
1 don't live in Mason County ■ 2.0% 10
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Public Involvement-Survey Responses I Appendix D 138
10. Use the space provided to expand upon answers or identify any
additional reasons we may have missed:
camping covid riding spaces
kids people belfalr i
areas tra
s
park cilities
trap arksstate
listed
nlace� or m a s o n
countysafe horses homeless
ResponselD Response
12 Homeless is becoming an issue
15 Existing facilities are not well maintained. Goal appears to be develop more,
don't take care of what we have. Make existing facilities functional, safe, and
optimal before branching into new efforts. Focus on what we own and do it
great.
57 All areas need more public open space.
58 All parks should be ADA compliant. Play equipment and splash pads that
accommodate special needs kids would be really nice.
59 Awareness is a huge issue, marketing may be an answer. Perception of
danger, distance, maintenence could be overcome.
66 1 am unable to walk very far without being able to sit for a spell. Benches
placed fairly near to each other would be a big help.
68 Many of the parks are too small and not worth the drive for what they offer.
For example, 30 - 45 min drive for a 1/2 mile walk and no other use options.
70 Too many transients disrespecting facilities. Garbage left and theft is too
prevelant. Give them a one way transit ticket out of town, send them to the
state capital. Olympia loves them leaving garbage and drugs laying
everywhere.
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ResponselD Response
90 Don't know much about any trails. What I know, is that can't take dog with
you. Plus, I don't normally go where bugs live on purpose.
91 facilities often don't meet the needs of our scouts i.e. camping, hiking
distances, etc
99 Need to visit all parks nut I stay close to home covid seems to be a reason to
not go far
150 1 have lived in Mason County all my life and hadn't heard of some of the
parks listed at the beginning of this survey, Now I need to go find them!
151 Safety
152 Mason County is low density so most of us live in outlying areas distant from
current recreational resources. Trails that connect the county and allow
more bike or hike travel would be great.
157 As a single person, I would love to be able to walk my dog more places in
nature, but it simply is not safe because the trails are not frequented
enough. I suspect others avoid them for the same reason.
167 No biking or hiking trails of any length.
171 N o n
180 Having to pay for a park pass
192 Poorly marked trails. Physical signs on trail are needed, not GPS for cell
phones.
198 I've lived in mason county about one year and frequent the wetlands, salmon
center, and state parks, but hadn't even heard of most of the facilities listed
in the survey.
199 The bathrooms are often filthy and only seemed to be clean once a week.
204 Not aware of most of these parks even though we frequent other parks
(state & other counties) weekly. When I looked at Mason County parks online,
most look not much bigger than a postage stamp. I am not aware of a single
hiking or bike trail in Mason County.
205 1 need all around facility swimming boating camping. Mason county has zero
camping. It's private or state.
217 Loss of available ORV opportunities in Mason county.
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ResponselD Response
224 Mason County's various small parks don't have amenities that draw us there.
They are small and easy to forget about when thinking of something to do on
the weekends. We've tried visiting parks but have been surprised by locked
gates, which discourages future attempts.
228 Walking trail along Hwy 106 from Union to Belfair. So many people walk
along the tiny edge of the road everyday. It's dangerous. It could be a county
destination with the views!
243 We seem to always encounter issues with homeless folks abusing the
areas/facilities.
246 Many parks listed in this survey I was not aware of. There is probably
opportunity to increase visibility to already available spaces. Advertising
what is available through community newsletters or something like that
might help.
249 1 don't know where most of the places you listed are. If there is a county park
often it is unsavory and dirty. I need a bathroom.
256 1 no longer have a dog, though when I did I visited the off-leash dog park
regularly. Physical limitations mean I don't walk for huff and puff trail,
though I used to enjoy it immensely. I do enjoy music in the park during the
summer. But my active use of parks has diminished with age... I am now 76,
and find activity enough around my home and yard to keep me busy. I
vicariously enjoy a neighborhood park a block away from my home where
children and neighbors gather regularly. What a wonderful asset a
neighborhood park is.
275 Homeless
281 Difficult to find cohesive info online
282 Dont want to go to the same couple places over and over again. Plus in the
summer they are super crowded because there are only a few places. MORE
SWIMMING ACCESS please! Fresh water lakes, salt water, whatever.
288 Dogs prohibited
297 Please replace sign stating park hours....
307 Equestrian trails, need space to park, a little more access to kayaking spaces
312 No horse trails, trail heads.
314 People dumping trash and homeless
320 None are for horses!
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ResponselD Response
322 the " Fiord" publication has included quite a few places to go hiking, so has
Woytowich's column in localpaper, but need details of park's to plan well.
323 Tried to book on harstene and all reservable/electric spots gone for months
ahead
324 No place for horses.
326 network trails for Equestrians. No dirt bikes. Bicycles. Quads. Hikers, horses.
Dogs
329 Horse camping
333 A beautiful quaint bridge at Truman Glick Park could use a paved pathway
for handicap usage to the bridge and to the creek.
345 Not many horse riding trails
357 1 haven't even heard of most of these places. Publicity would be a good idea.
367 Some parks are over run with homeless...makes it feel unsafe
368 Not enough parking for big trucks/trailers
381 Not open to horses
383 again nothing close for horses
410 Security issues (patrolling and enforcement, lighting)
412 Lived in Mason County over 4 years and comparing to Snoqualmie area there
are little safe bike trails or designated mountain biking areas
419 1 primarily visit Mason Country for horseback riding at Kennedy Creek.
429 Limited places to ride. No indoor facility for riding or horse shows
431 1 used to swim at the high school pool but stopped because it wasn't
pleasant: cold water, pool paint flaking off, too much chlorine,
uncomfortable changing room..
442 sunset bluff park attracts a lot of strange characters and druggies who
vandalize adjacent properties
452 Covid-19 Pandemic
455 Bicycle locks
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ResponselD Response
480 Not aware that any horseback riding areas exist in Mason--unless privately
owned.
491 Heavy evidence of drug use in the places intended for children's play is very
scary. Perhaps we need a needle exchange program to reroute these
biohazards to appropriate locations.
521 The kids have schools and the YMCA to play. We need adult spaces to
recreate as well. don't duplicate spaces for kids.
527 like the Twanoh and Belfair St. Park trails/walks along with Theler. The
Sweetwater Ck trail over to Allyn would be incredible. It would be a game
changer and it's already in our MC parks/trails comp plan and has been for
almost 15 years
536 Working too many jobs but with the Governor stopping the Free rent
moratorium with fake Covid affected renters, things are looking up!
538 shooting areas not available
548 Homeless people and unruly youth acting like we are tresspassing on public
Lands, no enforcement available, it just doesn't feel safe
566 I have trouble walking and parking is frequently not available and I have to
walk too far. I live near Lk Devoraux and to bring a chair and walk from
parking area is too much, also people break beer bottles and police response
is virtually non existant, so maybe volunteers can help with safety. Hunter
park has no parking and is belfair needle park, so is great if you use drugs,
not a place for kids or grandkids, It would be nice to have a great playground
used to take grandkids to a park in shelton but that is a 40 min drive one way
567 Most of the existing facilities are not what I'm interested in. I prefer natural
spaces over managed beaches, and educational areas over play fields.
585 Used to use more spaces frequently. COVID changed that but will want to
use parks and trails more soon.
588 I use all there is to use
596 Not enough parks in North Mason Sweetwater Park would be a Jewel
598 I sometimes bring my kids to Belfair State Park. But don't feel safe going
there alone with my kids. I've noticed interesting characters tend to hang out
there.
607 There's not much info on services. Not much out in Tahuya.
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ResponselD Response
615 People sleeping in parking areas, acting strangely, like keeping their backs
to you. What are they hiding?
619 Only part time in mason county will use more in a coup,e years when we are
full time
644 We do use available park facilities as much as possible
652 Crime and drugs have increased and the "clean up" has decreased.
663 1 would like to see if bicycle trail between Belfair State Park and Belfair. I
know of at least two children who have suffered permanent injuries riding
their bikes between these two locations.
678 Dogs on leash not welcome.
691 DNR has lots of opportunities for trails, walking, etc. Mason County Parks
needs to steer people to those existing facilities and perhaps work with DNR
in more waking trail accommodations.
693 Numerous fishers owned, and maintained properties we have visited lack
maintenance and offer no, or very limited sanitation facilities. This creates
very unhealthy conditions as open deification and urination contaminants the
grounds, and trails. Leaving many beautiful areas undesirable to use or visit.
714 Clean bathrooms where no drug use is obvious.
716 Most are in Shelton and a 30 mile drive to go to a park one way is too long a
drive for small children for an after school outing.
718 Enough state, BLM, Federal land available. Kids grown up.
724 Many of the parks listed were unknown to me. We have lived in Mason Co. 6
years and find nature spaces (low accessibility needs for our family) and love
visiting parks like Truman Glick. I am interested in the county showcasing
these parks.
734 1 don't know the location of most of the parks that where listed
741 Sunset Bluff Park needs to be closed in the hours of darkness and routinely
monitored in the hours of light. This park is a security and safety hazard for
the property owners on Sunset Road.
743 Not clearly marked and marketed
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ResponselD Response
754 Imlive on the road to sunset bluff but sometimes people in the park make me
feel unsafe even though its the closest park to me. Also trails in the park
Lead into some private areas without any signage. I think some one was
camping in the park last year along a trail
756 Most facilities are in South Mason County. I live in Belfair, on North Shore
Rd, and there are few county resources here.
762 some trails appear to have unstable homeless people living in the woods,
have seen drug use, possible drug sales and other odd behaviors. Very
beautiful trails but uncomfortable to walk on.
764 1 don't encounter the above issues except that facilities have sometimes
been overused because of the pandemic.
772 Unsafe passage without a car.
778 1 do not play on a ball field or wait for a bus. Those are our two parks. Sad.
787 Mason County needs to maintain the Parks/Trails it has before add new
parks.
791 Places are completely vacant. Shows they must be interesting. I went to your
"county parks" this year, and NO one was sledding during the storm. A mere
8 years ago, the Kitsap county parked were PACKED with sledders.
Something is grossly psychologicallybwrong in this town.
803 Please help the Sweetwater Creek Park.
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Public Involvement-Survey Responses I Appendix D 145
11. Over the next ten years, how should Mason County distribute its
Parks and Recreation resources?(Enter in values next to each option up
to 100 percent of available resources. Please note, the total for this
question can't go above 100%.)
Total.
Item Average Min Max StdDev Sum Responses
Acquisition and/or development 21.0 0.0 1,000.0 46.1 11,312.0 538
of walking and biking trails
Maintenance/Improvements of 20.0 0.0 100.0 19.7 10,729.0 536
existing parks and facilities
Acquisition and/or development 16.7 0.0 1,000.0 46.0 8,905.0 534
of sites to access waterbodies
Acquisition of new park land or 12.8 0.0 100.0 15.8 6,861.0 535
natural areas
Development of new park 10.8 0.0 100.0 14.9 5,809.0 537
facilities (playgrounds,
shelters, etc.)
Construction of new athletic 7.5 0.0 100.0 13.2 3,986.0 532
facilities (fields, courts, etc.)
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Public Involvement-Survey Responses I Appendix D 146
12. What age range are you within?
2%15-24
14%70 or older
40%55-69
20%25-39
25%40-54
Value Percent Responses
55-69 . 39.9% 200
40-54 . 24.6% 123
25-39 20.4% 102
70 or older 13.6% 68
15 - 24 1.6% 8
Totals: 501
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Public Involvement—Survey Responses I Appendix D 147
13. Which of the following best describes you?
1%1 am a student in elementary, \
middle,or high school I
2%Prefer not to answer
4%None of these apply to me / 33%1 am an adult with no children
at home
29%1 am a parent or guardian with
a child/children 18 or younger at
home
'731%1 am retired
Value Percent Responses
I am an adult with no children at home ' 32.9% 159
1 am retired ' 31.0% 150
1 am a parent or guardian with a child/children 18 or younger ' 29.1% 141
at home
None of these apply to me 4.3% 21
Prefer not to answer 2.1% 10
I am a student in elementary, middle, or high school 0.6% 3
Totals: 484
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Public Involvement—Survey Responses I Appendix D 148
14. Do you live within Mason County?
6%No,I live outside Mason \
County. 1
94%Yes,I live within Mason
County.
Value Percent Responses
Yes, I live within Mason County. 94.2% 452
No, I live outside Mason County. 5.8% 28
Totals: 480
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Public Involvement-Survey Responses I Appendix D 149
15. What community do you live within (or closest to)?
1%Victor
1%Lilliwaup
1%Hoodsport _
2%Tahuya
3%Kamilche � 37%Shelton
3%Dayton
3%Other/Prefer not to answer
4%Matlock
5%Arcadia
5%Grapeview
8%Allyn
10%Union
18%Belfair
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Public Involvement-Survey Responses Appendix D 150
Value Percent Responses
Shelton 37.4% 159
Belfair 18.4% 78
Union 9.6% 41
Allyn 7.5% 32
Grapeview 5.4% 23
Arcadia 5.4% 23
Matlock I 3.8% 16
Other/Prefer not to answer 3.1% 13
Dayton 2.6% 11
Kamilche I 2.6% 11
Tahuya 2.4% 10
Hoodsport 0.9% 4
Lilliwaup 0.5% 2
Victor 0.5% 2
Totals:425
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Public Involvement-Survey Responses I Appendix D 151
16. What gender do you identify with?
0%Transgender
1%Other/Not Listed: -
4%Prefer Not to Answer
30%Male
64%Female
Value Percent Responses
Female 64.4% 306
Male . 30.1% 143
Prefer Not to Answer I 4.4% 21
Other/Not Listed: 0.8% 4
Transgender 0.2% 1
Totals: 475
Other/Not Listed: Count
This question is worded incorrectly. 1
gay 1
Totals 2
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Public Involvement-Survey Responses I Appendix D 152
17. Are you of Hispanic, Latino, or Spanish origin?
2%Yes
98%No
Value Percent Responses
No 97.6% 450
Yes 2.4% 11
Totals: 461
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Public Involvement-Survey Responses I Appendix D 153
18. How would you describe yourself?
100
80
60
c
N
U
i
N
40
20
0
White Other-Write In American Indian Asian Black or African Native Hawaiian
or Alaska American or Other Pacific
Native Islander
Value Percent Responses
White 91.8% 428
Other - Write In 5.8% 27
American Indian or Alaska Native 2.4% 11
Asian 1.5% 7
Black or African American 1.1% 5
Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander 0.2% 1
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Public Involvement-Survey Responses I Appendix D 154
Other - Write In Count
Human 5
American 2
Prefer not to answer 2
Scandinavian 2
human 2
11, 12 , 13 are not relevant these questions are offensive 1
Beautiful 1
English/Scottish/Irish 1
How dare you! 1
Jewish 1
Mixed 1
Native meaning born in usa, european 1
No 1
Northern European 1
Scottish 1
deplorable 1
norwegian 1
Totals 25
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Public Involvement-Survey Responses I Appendix D 155
19. These answers will help to provide guidance in the development of
the Mason County PROST Plan! Below is a space to share any additional
information or comments we may have missed in the earlier sections of
this survey.
Sweetwater familyland love facilities
bike people access
community or
parr horse
creek co u n great
safe feel
mason •
area areas rails
maintenan amenities development
ResponselD Response
12 Take care of what we have already paid for. More Staff presence would help
the homeless issues
13 It would be nice if staff was available, present and seen during busy nights
at MCRA. More often then not, no one is around to address issues. Maybe
adjust staffing schedules to be present at the facility when people are there
with the most need.
17 Boat ramps near Shelton
24 Mason County Commissioners need to identify dedicated ongoing funding to
maintain what Mason County has and to make improvements and additions.
38 Truman Glick Park in Matlock is the only park in the area. MMK students
where able to use this park during the school shutdown. We would like to
see continued maintenance and availability for this community park.
42 I would like see sand hill upgrades in line with the mcra facilities in shelton
49 We need to again have an exclusive Parks &Trails Director, not a shared
duty individual.John Keats was the greatest thing we ever had!Things have
gone downhill ever since he left.
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Public Involvement-Survey Responses I Appendix D 156
ResponselD Response
51 When trying to locate a facility I found it difficult to find a map on the Mason
county website that provides driving directions to various facilities.
57 Team up with wash.DNR to open up timperlands for public acess as to trails
to walk bike and enjoy are outdoors.
59 Access by all citizens is a concern. Will this survey be in Spanish for our
Latina population? And, is input sought from low income citizens - who likely
need respite from Nature.
60 1 would love to see more biking trails. Many parks have walking trails that
could double as biking trails but it seems frowned upon. I think some simple
signage would make these trails more inclusive to biking.
68 One are of the survey areas missed is "access" to National Forests and the
Olympic National Park. Improvements can be made to connect to these
areas. More partnership with Green Diamond on temporary land use for
recreation. Mason County has high obesity and diabetes rates and there are
very little bike trails or lanes and safe walking paths. Mason County is an "on
the way" place and not a "destination" place. We have such an opportunity to
be a destination area for enjoyment of our natural resources (beautiful
outdoors, salmon, shellfish, hiking, etc.). Many people bike the Olympic
Peninsula" that may stop more Mason County if the roads were more bike
friendly, for example.
78 No new taxes
80 Keep rural character of cointy
83 You ask the question, how would you describe your seld w a selection of
different answers such as Native American, but you didn't list my community
around my community, including Hoodsport?To get to the community, you
have to drive through mine skokomish
92 FUN Exercise for all ages. Even visitors.
99 Out lying parks should be kept open all year
102 Thank you. Great survey. We didn't know about all of the parks!!
122 A Shooting sports failicty would promote safe recreational shooting across
the entire county ans well as provide Parks a revenue source from fee based
access and event leases. this would help resovle isses as we become a more
populated county, as well as reduce the environmental impact on
unimporved areas and private timberlands. There is RCO grant opportunities
for just such a project.
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Public Involvement-Survey Responses I Appendix D 157
ResponselD Response
147 Mason county needs to focus on getting out of the past and into the future. It
is apparent that our thinking is outdated. Spend some time on economic
development and polish the jewel we have to serve areas around us with
housing and amenities/services.
150 I would love to see something similar to what the Chamber does for the
"First Friday" program in December with a passport to the different
businesses but do it for our Mason County Parks. Get a passport, visit the
different parks and get a badge or some sort of small token for filling your
"passport". Or maybe fill your:"passport" and be put into a drawing for a
free parking pass or something like that.
152 I gave acquisition priority over development because in the future
opportunities to acquire land will diminish.
157 Our community needs safe GREEN spaces and access to the myriad of bodies
of water just minutes from our doorsteps. Would love to see the Shelton
waterfront cleaned up and useable for residents and visitors alike.
162 My husband and I feel it would be a huge community boost to acquire the
current soccer park and install turf fields and build a indoor soccer and
batting cages. Although, our child is almost an adult we have traveled to
many facilities outside of our community and feel it is a great asset to a
community.
193 RV camping and long term rental spots is at an all time high demand. Mason
County should be taking advantage of its natural attractions to attract these
campers.
199 Making the existing rail road tracks into bike path would be amazing!
205 We have beautiful lakes but there is no swimming or family friendly access
to the lakes. I'm retired but I have grandchildren I would enjoy taking to the
Lake. I pay to be able to go to Mason lake.
215 Not sure
219 Kids need more places to swim. We need more biking paths.
224 Consider additional development of disc golf in Mason County. It's a rapidly
growing support that has a strong foundation in the community thanks to
the Shelton Springs course. Disc golf fits in with Pacific Northwest culture
and brings in visitors.
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ResponselD Response
240 Mason County needs income to acquire and protect some of the open spaces
closest the majority of its residents (Hood Canal and Puget Sound area).
Development in the next 20 years will cut off access to open spaces that
residents currently take for granted. If the County acquires open space,
protects it for habitat, and provides access to residents (parking and trails),
it will be good for quality of life, recreational tourism, and ecological health.
Implement Conservation Futures. https://app.Leg.wa.gov/rcw/defauLt.aspx?
cite=84.34.240
245 We need walkways/safe sidewalks in Union along McCreavy road and 106.
246 On the maintenance/improvement line of the budget break out... this should
be split apart. I have no idea what it costs to maintain parks, and I don't
want anything over my guess to be interpreted as going towards
improvements. I think current parks have sufficient amenities, should be
maintained, but anything extra should go to development of community
spaces where families can connect with one another.
249 When I am traveling I look at this as a way to determine the health of a
community. I know a lot of bikers and there is no place to safely ride in the
county. Bike Lanes!!
255 buy land now, prices will only increase. especially waterfront for non-
motorized watercraft access like kayaks
256 I understand how some might feel we need to spend our resources on
construction of facilities, but it seems to me the bottom line is limited by
Land being available for parks. If it is not acquired now, if we wait too long,
the land will simply not be available. Growing the inventory of publicly
owned land is essential.
261 Clean areas bathrooms, family friendly...fun areas for kids to play safely and
sports areas
273 Oakland Bay tidelands adjoining Maloney creek should be purchased.
275 We also love the disc golf course
278 Marketing should be in the budget. Having brochures and park maps at the
chamber visitor centers would be very helpful
281 Desire dog friendly hiking trails
291 Bike path along Cloquallum would be awesome
292 The name of the park in Union is wrong in your survey (or on Google)
296 Please focus on kids with most need. Spray park. Kid park in poverty areas.
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Public Involvement-Survey Responses I Appendix D 159
ResponselD Response
297 Union park is out of control...three houses border this park...one family was
just forced out-the othr listed her home recently becuse of park issues, and
my house....i have lived in union forthirty five years..my street and the park
are now unsafe and noisy cause ofkids on atvs etc.
299 Critical need for walking and biking trails.
302 It would be great to have more places to practice shooting.
307 I would love to see a fair grounds brought back to mason county. More
equestrian access.
309 We need to bring back the Mason County Fair. It is such a great community
gathering, and supports the kids 4H program.
311 Bring back Mason County Fairgrounds, The loss of our Countyfair has really
affected our community and clubs like 4H.
313 The horseback riders in Thurston, Grays Harbor, and Mason county are
Looking for safe places to park our vehicles and ride. Most of us carry saws
and know how to help keep the trails maintained or even make the trails.
314 Please stop trying to eliminate equestrian activity the majority of us are
responsible members in this rural community. This is not seattle we should
be embracing all the country aspects of small town living and remeber
horses have been here for a long time and we will continue to be here . Stop
banning horses in recreational areas we are just as important and you
having a fog park. If you want us out if certain areas you should design an
equestrian park for us. I work very hard in our community hospital to help
our residents it's important I have an outlet from this demanding job as well
with horses
316 Thank you for allowing for input. Please consider equestrian trails/facilities a
necessity for mason county
320 Consider horse trails
322 As economic problems make some forms of recreation very expensive, it is
even more important to make full use of our forests and trails to remain fit
and functioning !
323 Horse people are under serviced. Timber companies are chargingus, as
individuals, annual fees of$125, in addition to their tax breaks
324 Bring our Fair back please. Places to ride horses.
326 trail maintenance
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Public Involvement—Survey Responses I Appendix D 160
ResponselD Response
327 Not once has recreational horseback riding been brought up.
329 More boating and horse riding and camping
333 As Park Host, we hear people ask us to provide them year around access to
parks facility usage. However, in order for this to occur, parks/trails would
need to have the personnel to support this demand, the resources to
maintain the current infrastructure. Granting the public full access year
around today is not doable or viable for Mason County at this time. If the
Long term goal is to have Parks and Trails a priority for Mason County
taxpayers, Commissioners should reinstate a Director of Parks and Trails to
manage it's natural resources. A Director of Parks and Trails that would be
qualified in knowledge of forest and shore management, consturction
disciplines , feild/park maintenance, budget, revenue, staffing, grant writting,
and have a vision.
337 Horseback riding trails are needed
349 Just feel that our youth is our future and outdoors recreation education and
we need more areas to try to interest them in with more availability of
outdoor activities
357 Where are most of these places? Any of these places? I am most upset that
there are these places that I haven't even heard of. Publicity! Maybe a map
with this survey? Please develop in ALL areas of the county notjust Shelton
area.
359 Would love to see unused railroad tracks converted to walking trails. We
have lost the use of Mason lake due to Simpson charging their employees a
yearly fee. It would be great to have something similar to Lake
Sylvia/Millersylvania near the city.
363 Consider horseback riding and establish more areas (or develop a
partnership with those who own areas, like Green Diamond and DNR) to
offer safe, maintained trails for the equestrians in your community.
368 We need more equestrian friendly trails
370 We moved to Harstine Island last year &there is little information about
outdoor areas.
377 As I stated earlier, there are not enough areas for equestrians. The ones we
have have NO amenities. It would be nice to have horse trails designated. I
Live real close to the Mason County line.
382 Would Luke to see Horsemanship add to the list, equestrian trails, maybe
even a public arena that time could be rented out.
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Public Involvement—Survey Responses I Appendix D 161
ResponselD Response
383 1 like horses and dogs to have a great area
385 1 visited Sunset Bluff Park and found the trails to be in very poor condition. I
currently volunteer at Harstine Island and Jarrell state parks and Bayshore
Preserve.
402 1 don't visit a lot of these parks because I don't know where they are or how
to access them. A map with all of these areas and where to park/how to get
to them would be great!
403 1 think better utilizing the parks we already have could be helpful as well-
example - in Union, there is a baseball field, but the baselines are not
defined. Maybe add a soccer goal or two to the baseball outfield, Public WiFi
would likely help attract visitors as well.
419 Please consider the creation/maintenance of non-motorized trails to be used
by hikers, mountain bikers and horse back riders.
421 1 think our community is doing the best they can with available people for the
jobs. I like the conversation of funding and building parks and estuary type
wetlands as I feel nature to this area is super important. I'd like to see more
Native American inspired and themed projects as this was once all the local
tribes land "squaxin"
429 We could use a facility to bring our vast horseback riding community
together... for expeditions, shows, etc.... fairs etc. We also need to expand
upon and save the riding trails that exist and keep them safe from motorized
vehicles... and overgrowth...I am sure the riding community would help
maintain them
442 residents of Sunset Road in the Agate area are upset with the vandalism
that occurs with the evening/night use of Sunset Bluff park
453 The existing "beaches" here are a rocky mess, they aren't even really
beaches. Mason County needs good large SANDY beaches and more public
access. As an example, at Spencer Lake, there is very limited access except
at the boat launch, and it's all Ricky and potholes out in th parking lot, the
trash is always overflowing, etc. I understand this is a poor county, but in
general the county administration isn't forward looking at all and doesn't
want to see growth and improvement, which is a problem.
457 Indoor facility for youth needed Outdoor facilities for families needed
458 Roller skating, ice skating and bowling facilities would be a welcome addition
to Mason County.
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Public Involvement-Survey Responses I Appendix D 162
ResponselD Response
459 1 feel strongly that the County is ignoring safety and maintenance issues
related to the Sunset Bluff County Park. When the park property was
aquired, the residents of Sunset Road were assured that the County would
assume responsibility for the safety and maintenance of the new park. To
date, the County has failed to meet this commitment. There are on-going
issues with this unsupervised isolated setting that encourages vandalism
and public safety. The need for a secure gate and fencing is absolutely
imperative to assure the local community's safety. Issues that need
addressed include proper signage addressing the issues of hunting,
camping, and park hours. Issues created by the access to the park from
Crestview Drive also need to be addressed. Hopefully, these neighborhood
concerns will be addressed in the near future.
475 Why would you ask any race questions. What difference does it make? Any
why ask a separate question about being Hispanic?
476 Even though My permanent home is in King County, I spend as much time as
possible on Hood Canal, many weeks in the summer and several times a
month year round
490 Security of parks during evening hours via locked gates to prevent vehicles
entering parks. Maybe it would cut down on vandalism, drinking, drugs and
traffic in parks and the neighborhoods adjacent to parks.
493 Sweetwater Park and trail area is owned by Port of Allyn. Mason County
should not be involved.
510 You have a huge horse community in mason county, providing equine
accessible trails would be very much appreciated.
517 During the summer months people are in search of a place to swim and
picnic with their family. We have so many lakes but none with a public
swimming area.
521 People are moving here, developers have found us and many open spaces
will be gone in the blink of an eye. It's best to obtain land for parks now
before it's gone or too expensive. The kids have the YMCA and schools to
play in. Please preserve more open spaces for our future.
526 Parks should be and will need to be funded better. The community needs
safe clean places for families to enjoy outdoor spaces.
527 Keep in mind... Mr. VanBuskirk's sole reason to participate in many, if not all
of these exercises, is to try to kill the Sweetwater Ck park. He goes to Port
meetings and state funding /granting sources and expends a bundle of
energy to block... so take that into account when you read his biased
feedback.That park has hundreds of folks who have donated both cash and
'in kinrl' to -,Pp it hannen_
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Public Involvement-Survey Responses I Appendix D 163
ResponselD Response
533 You all should focus on the homeless issue. We would be able to enjoy our
parks if we didnt feel like we needed to be armed to take our kids to the park
or look for needles first.
535 A trail like the Western Chehalis walk/bike trail would be awesome!
536 Thank you for allowing input!
538 mason isnt king county, please for the lobe of god dont ruin it with bullshit
parks and taxes
549 Just would like to see bike trails or lanes. Harstine island would make good
bike lane around island.
561 More safe bike or walking trails on the North Shore road would improve my
experience as well.
566 feel free to contact me am Jed Clampette on facebook
568 As Mason County is a rural area a lot of people go shoot in the woods.A
designated and safe area for a shooting range that is away from residential
areas would be beneficial to the community.
585 Thank you for providing this survey!
588 We really need more water access around here. It is a real shame we have
no trail from the Salmon Center to Belfair Park.
589 Unleashed dog park
590 Keep up the good work. Steps to mitigate climate change are my highest
priority. You seem to have struck the perfect balance at Thelar.
595 As a parent with young children - bathrooms & shelters are key amenities
that make a park accessible to us. We like trails to walk but also
playgrounds.
596 Sweetwater Park should be seriously looked at. What a beautiful addition to
our community.
597 Sweetwater creek park as well as the community parks and trail systems like
it that connect the areas together.
599 I maybe retired from Dentistry, but I am the only volunteer trail maintenance
person for the Theler wetland trails &the HCSEG trails
610 Love the idea of green energy investments in these amazing new project
idea!
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Public Involvement-Survey Responses I Appendix D 164
ResponselD Response
611 The gender question was unnecessarily politically correct BS
615 Mason County is under-birded. It would be nice to have some good pull outs
or parking around Hood Canal and different birding areas also. Need
restroom at Theler.
619 Will be here full time within next 24 monthes.
623 Sweetwater Park would also allow salmon to go up the Creek to spawn=
critical!!
634 I am so happy to see that our Brian Peterson is again at the forefront of
caring about Mason County. He is a blessing. I was not aware of all the
PROST info. Thank you.
637 As I mentioned earlier, I would like to see expanded plantings of community
food, especially native plants but also things like apple trees. The Shelton
United Methodist Church and Hoodsport Timberland Library have both
begun to develop this. It can be very cheap but high yielding for the
community, and good for pollinators and wildlife.
649 Start investing money into BELFAIR! I'm tired of seeing She'll get all the
priority.
652 Cleaning up what we already have will make it easier to assess better what
we can afford by not spreading out the financial aspect of it, too thin and
take note of what other areas may, or may not, be needed.
653 Thanks for the work you do! These facilities are so important, especially in
the era of pandemics and climate change.
654 I am not familiar with many of the parks listed. A map or links to information
would have been useful.
655 Showers at waterfront parks
669 With so much rural areas and bodies of water, more access should be
available. With such a large rural county, walking/hiking trails, parks with
shelters and more water access close to where people should be considered.
673 I am concerned that plans for the Sweetwater creek waterwheel park will
not totally preserve the area. I hope that it is treated with care.
679 The description for the waterfall park doesn't say where it is in relation to
hwy 3, how big it is, what's the source for fresh water fishing, how far to
Theler?
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ResponselD Response
685 Need more cycling trails, please! The roads as they exist are not safe riding
places. Would love to see a Belfair to Shelton trail that allows cycling. Sorry
that the trails at Theler do not allow bicycles.
693 Greatly improved maintenance and management of all county road
shoulders is desperately needed. Presently it is un safe to traverse most all
of our roads by foot or bicycle.
699 Sidewalks and or trails aling highways especially northshore into town alot
of people walk and it is dangerous.
702 1 support the Sweetwater/Wagonwheel land acquisition and
redevelopment.
708 More parks the better! Greedy Diamond has all the land and the normal guy
can'tjust go out in the woods anymore with his family without a permit..
714 We could use campgrounds with playgrounds and clean facilities
717 These parks and recreation areas needs to have better marketing to inform
the public.
718 Spray parks in UGA would be great family amenity. Camping at county parks
great revenue source and add to shortage of camping in area.
724 Your gender question separates Female, Male, and Transgender. This a.
implies cis women and men are women and men and trans women and trans
men are only trans. A fill in the blank answer box would fix this issue quite
easily.
726 1 have heard there is a proposal for the Sweetwater Creek Project with a trail
from the Hood Canal to Case Inlet, I think this would be amazing and very
needed.
734 A list of the parks and amenities somewhere easy to find, I didn't know most
of parks listed
741 Please resource Sunset Bluff Park so it can be secured, signed and closed
during the hours of darkness.
750 The Sweetwater park really sparks my family's interest. We have been on the
Theler wetland trails many times.
756 More amenities (walk/bike trails, ADA accessible trails and parks,in North
Shore!
759 We need a community pool.
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ResponselD Response
764 1 am worried that with the population growth and development the area will
Lose its rural character and become a bedroom community with suburban
style parks.
765 Sidewalks and parks for children are needed
768 Safety is my biggest concern when going to parks!
778 Please put high priority on the Sweetwater Creek Project.
787 The County needs to dedicate REET 2 monies to Parks and Trails. The
original Resolution imposing the REET 2 (Real Estate Excise Tax second .25
allowed in State law) was to operate Parks. Regrettably, not in perpetuity
and after several years it has been used for every thing else.To a reasonable
person, it would appear that Parks/Trails are not important to the County.
Suggest impact fees for Parks be explored.
791 Every single question you've asked has doged the real problems with our
park infrastructure, maintenance, and development. I feel I have grossly
wasted my time completing this redundant surgery, that will add zero value
to the input of our local parks system. Who wrote this?A high schooler?
796 1 am not currently a Mason County resident, though I am in the process of
relocating to the Shelton area and both my spouse and I work in this county.
803 Please help the Sweetwater Creek Park. It would be reaRynice to have a Park
(waterfront if possible) on the Grapeview Loop.
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Public Involvement—Survey Responses I Appendix D 167
21. Check the box below if you are interested in volunteering to improve
park and recreational facilities within Mason County.
100
80
60
!
N
U
4)
a_
40
20
0
Yes,I am interested in learning about volunteering opportunities in support of parks and recreation.
Value Percent Responses
Yes, I am interested in learning about volunteering ■ 100.0% 114
opportunities in support of parks and recreation.
Mason County Parks,Recreation,Open Space and Trails Plan Public Involvement-Survey Responses I Appendix D 168