HomeMy WebLinkAbout05-13 - Res. Adopting Mason County Parks and Trails Comprehensive Plan
MASON COUNTY PARKS AND
TRAILS COMPREHENSIVE
PLAN 2013
Mason County Facilities, Parks and Trails
411 North 5th Street
2100 E. Johns Prairie Road
Shelton, WA 98584
OAKLAND BAY COUNTY PARK
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Several people were instrumental in the development of this Parks and Recreation Comprehensive
Plan. We would like to acknowledge all of those individuals who gave their time, support and
assistance in developing this Comprehensive Parks Plan.
COMPREHENSIVE PARK PLAN UPDATE
CITIZEN ADVISORY GROUP
Monte Ritter (Park Advisory Board Member)
Kendy Meyers (Park Advisory Board Member)
Ed Lucas Bob Simmons
John Lake Greg Huffman
Chad Collins Becky Penoyar
Don Peppin John E. Johnson
Vern Rutter Denny Hamilton
Jason Maiuri Kevin Frankenberger
Tom Pearson Maureen Beckstead
Susan Rabago
PARKS AND TRAILS ADVISORY BOARD
Frank Benavente - Chairperson
Monte Ritter
Linda Woytowich
Kendy Meyer
Susan Baker
Julie Henning
Michael Siptroth
Andrew Kinney
MASON COUNTY FACILITIES, PARKS AND TRAILS DEPARTMENT STAFF
John Keates, Director
RaeGene Churchill, Facilities Scheduler
Heidi Bailey, Senior Accounting Technician
Carl Olson, Maintenance II
Jesse Weston, Maintenance I
Joseph Glaser, Seasonal Maintenance
William Ells, Maintenance I
Jeff Canaday, Seasonal Maintenance
MASON COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
Commissioner Randy Netherlin, Chair
Commissioner Tim Sheldon
Commissioner Terri Jeffries
Prepared by:
AjO Consulting
Arvilla Ohlde, Belfair, WA
In Association with:
MIG, Inc., Portland, Oregon
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
he Mason County Department of Facilities, Parks and Trails acknowledges the importance
of quality of life issues, healthy lifestyles, and the need for recreational opportunities in
Mason County. Because parks, trails, and other outdoor recreational facilities play an
important role in increasing physical activity and promoting health, proper parks and facility
planning is essential. Planning, combined with an increasing demand for recreational facilities in
Mason County, dictates the need for an updated Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan.
This plan updates the previous plan completed in 2006. The plan is intended to lay the groundwork
for the future of the Mason County Facilities, Parks and Trails system. The plan has inventoried
existing parks and identifies current and future park needs and has explored potential park
acquisition, development and improvements.
Mason County is projected to grow to 65,816 by 2018, with continued growth through 2025. The plan
has identified the County’s park and facility deficits and recommends strategies in response and
address demands from future growth.
To help create a document that would encompass the desires of Mason County’s citizens, the Board
of County Commissioners appointed the Parks and Trails Advisory Board to work with citizen
representatives who served as advisors on the Mason County Citizen Advisory Group (CAG) during
this planning process. Citizen input was also received as a result of citizen outreach and through the
county-wide questionnaire. Staff and volunteers distributed copies of the survey to citizens through
the Mason County web-site, community service organizations, schools, library patrons and through
news articles in the Shelton-Mason County Journal. Staff also visited county-wide community groups
and hosted three public workshops, one in Shelton, one in Belfair and one with students at the
Shelton High School.
As a result, this Mason County Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan reflects the priorities as
voiced by public input, survey respondents, the Citizen Advisory Group, the Park and Trails Advisory
Board, and County staff. The plan contains chapters addressing the County’s goals, objectives and
defined indicators for parks and recreational facilities. It highlights intergovernmental coordination
with other local, state, and federal organizations. The Plan provides an inventory and description of its
existing park facilities with an overview of the operations of the Facilities, Parks and Trails
Department. The Plan provides extensive discussion on levels- of -service standards and strategies with
an explanation of prioritization methods, the results of the community questionnaire and listing of
project funding opportunities. The Appendix includes site master plan and park descriptions with
current and funding cost estimates with general recommendations regarding potential funding options
and sources over the next planning period.
This plan is designed to act as a planning tool for parks and park-related facilities through 2018 and
beyond. This plan update will also allow Mason County to be eligible for the Recreation and
Conservation Office (RCO) match grant programs. The plan has placed a high priority in seeking and
securing grants, donations, partnerships, and other creative funding mechanisms. This updated plan
will help ensure Mason County maintains and implements identified recommendations that provide
benefit to the citizens and visitors of Mason County.
T
Comp Plan
Pages 7 - 10
Comp Plan
Pages 17-32
Comp Plan
Pages 11-16
Comp Plan
Pages 33-62
Comp Plan
Page 165
Comp Plan
Pages 73-88
Comp Plan
Page 169
John Keates
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Acknowledgements
Executive Summary
Chapter Page Chapter 1 – Mission Statement, Introduction, County Profile ...... 1 Chapter 2 – Goals and Objectives .............................................. 7 Chapter 3 – Public Involvement/Citizen Input ............................ 11 Chapter 4 – Inventory/Park Map ............................................... 17 Chapter 5 – Demand and Needs Analysis .................................. 33 Chapter 6 – Recommendations/Prioritization ............................. 63 Chapter 7 – Funding/Capital Improvement Plan ........................ 73
Appendix A:
1. Facility Inventory Worksheets ............................................. 89
2. Park Descriptions/Park Concept Plans ............................. 93
3. Cost Estimate of Planning and Development ..................... 106
Appendix B:
1. Public Involvement/Community Questionnaire ................... 146
2. RCO Level of Service Summary/Local Agencies .............. 167
3. Mason County Park Advisory Board 2012 Minutes ............ 169
4. Mason County Adopting Resolution ................................... 171
Appendix C: 1. CD Pocket:......................................................................... 173 *Community Workshop Notes *Public Questionnaire Open Ended Comments
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Chapter 1 Page 1
MISSION STATEMENT, INTRODUCTION, COUNTY PROFILE CHAPTER 1
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.
INTRODUCTION
ealthier lifestyles through physical activity are becoming an important component
of people's lives. The Let’s Move: America’s Move to Raise a Healthier Generation of
Kids1 is the President’s challenge to set active lifestyle goals and be involved in regular
physical activity. Further, the U.S. Healthy Peoples Initiative and the Healthier US programs
through the Department of Health and Human Services also places strong emphasis on
increasing physical activity. These programs suggest regular physical activity and the
reduction of sedentary activities that promote health, psychological well being, and a healthy
body weight. The adult obesity rate in Mason County is 29.9% and Mason County is ranked 35th
out of 39 counties with regard to health ranking. As Americans increase their level of physical
activity, there is, in turn, an increased demand for healthier leisure-time activities, including
parks and outdoor recreation. As more and more people participate in outdoor activities, the
increased pressure on existing parks and recreational facilities may endanger the
environmental qualities that residents and nonresidents are attracted to in the first place.
Consequently, there is a need to provide for increasing recreational demand while at the
same time improving quality of life, enhancing property values and protecting natural
resources for future generations.
The National Park and Recreation Association (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;
◆ Articulate environmental values through ecologically responsible management and
environmental education programs;
◆ Promote individual and community wellness that enhances the quality of life for all
citizens;
◆ Utilize holistic approaches to promote cultural understanding, economic
development, family public health and safety, by working in coalitions and
partnerships with allied organizations; and
◆ Facilitate and promote the development of grassroots, self-help initiatives in
communities across the country.
Planning for parks and recreation also addresses the County’s need for capital investments in
public lands and recreation resources, contributes to individual and social development
including a healthy, active populace, improves the health and well-being of children, youth
and families, and ensures stewardship and protection for our nation’s natural resources.
The Mason County Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan will serve as a guide in the
development of parks and outdoor recreation and will enable the County to satisfy the
1 Sponsored by the USDA, Whitehouse, HHS, US Education and the Department of the Interior (www.letsmove.gov)
H
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Chapter 1 Page 2
planning requirements of the Growth Management Act (GMA) (RCW 36.70A.020). Local
agencies, such as Mason County, are required to update their Parks and Recreation
Comprehensive Plans every six years. The act establishes a number of requirements for local
comprehensive planning. It identifies specific goals that the comprehensive plans are to
achieve, prescribes the elements each plan is to contain, establishes requirements for
regulations, mandates the “urban growth area,” and requires local governments to
demonstrate how they will pay for the improvements and facilities called for in their plans.
The act requires extensive public participation in the planning process.
This plan will also provide a document that can be used to solicit a variety of grant sources,
including the Recreation and Conservation Office (RCO) with grant categories under the
Washington Wildlife and Recreation Program account (WWRP), the Boating Facilities Program
(BFP), The Non-Highway and Off Road Vehicle Program (NOVA) and the federal Land and
Water Conservation Funding (LWCF) through the Department of the Interior. Completion and
adoption of this plan will provide Mason County with grant eligibility from 2013 to 2018 with
the RCO. The RCO also requires public and/or community input as part of the planning
process.
To facilitate community input, the Mason County Board of Commissioners appointed an eight-
member Parks and Recreation Trails Advisory Board to work with County staff and a
seventeen member Citizen Advisory Group to work throughout the update process. In an
effort to maximize community input, citizens were invited to monthly Park Advisory Board
meetings and Mason County conducted three public workshops. One workshop was held April
16th at the Shelton Choice High School, the second was held April 30th in Shelton at the
Commissioners Chambers and the third was held April 23rd at the North Mason Timberland
Library in Belfair. Staff engaged workshop participants in a dialogue that would help create a
better understanding of the community’s needs, desires and vision for parks in Mason County.
Results from those workshops have been incorporated into this plan. Citizens were also
welcomed to attend the open public meetings of the Citizen Advisory Group (CAG) with
meeting notes provided to the public for additional suggestions, advice and input in the
planning process.
A County Parks Questionnaire survey was also developed and distributed to citizens and
visitors of Mason County. Surveys were distributed county-wide and presented in the Shelton-
Mason County Journal. Mason County staff, volunteers, Park Board members and the Citizen
Advisory Group distributed the surveys to strategic points throughout the County. The survey
was also posted on the County’s web-site from April until early June where citizens could
complete the survey and submit it online. This survey was provided in both English and
Spanish for County-wide distribution. The survey gauged the citizen’s attitudes, opinions, and
feelings on several important issues relating to parks and natural areas including existing and
future facilities, maintenance, funding, improvements, and acquisition.
The plan also contains a capital-improvements element that recommends selected park and
trail improvements from 2013 to 2018 and lists potential park improvements beyond the
planning period from 2018 to 2025.
The recommendations in the capital improvements element were derived from the data
collected from the Parks And Trails Advisory Board, Citizen Advisory Group, public meetings,
the survey results, and staff input.
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Chapter 1 Page 3
The efforts and dedication of many people should be recognized in the development of this
plan. Some of these individuals are listed as acknowledgements and includes staff, citizens,
appointed and elected participants in the planning process.
The following comprehensive plan is the result of hours of staff and volunteer time in
preparation, drafting, working with the public, tabulating survey results and guiding the plan
through the formal adoption process. We believe that the community has provided invaluable
information and insight for park planning in Mason County. This document is now the primary
parks planning tool for Mason County. It establishes specific policies and strategies for all
County parks related to land acquisition, facility and program development, funding, and
management. This plan is intended to:
◆ Articulate the County’s Vision and Mission Statement for Mason County parks,
facilities, trails and outdoor recreation;
◆ Provide an inventory of all parks within the County;
◆ Analyze recreational trends in Mason County as acquired through the Mason County
Parks questionnaire and community workshops;
◆ Describe the methods for inviting citizen participation in the planning process and
summarizes the key issues and recommendations that citizens provided; and
◆ Discuss future development plans for existing parks, possible new additions to the
park system, and the protection of park resources through policies and ordinances.
ason County was named for Charles H. Mason, territorial secretary and governor.
Mason County is one of the 39 counties in Washington and the City of Shelton is
the County seat. Mason County is situated along the southwestern portion of Puget Sound and
encompasses roughly 961 square miles. The County borders with Jefferson County to the
north, Gray’s Harbor County to the west and southwest, Thurston County to the southeast,
Pierce County to the east, and Kitsap County to the northeast. Mason County remains
predominately a rural County despite urban spillover from both Thurston and Kitsap Counties.
The City of Shelton, the only incorporated area in Mason County, includes approximately 4.77
square miles, or less than one percent of the County’s total land area. There are two Urban
Growth Areas in Mason County which are the Allyn UGA and the Belfair UGA in the northern
area of Mason County. Two Native American Tribes, the Skokomish Tribe and the Squaxin
Island Tribe have reservations within the boundaries of Mason County.
M
COULTER CREEK
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Chapter 1 Page 4
Three geological provinces combine to form Mason County. They include the Puget Sound
lowland, the Olympic Mountains, and the Black Hills. Additionally, seven watersheds exist
within Mason County. They include Case Inlet, Chehalis, Lower Hood Canal, Oakland Bay,
Skokomish, Trotten-Little Skookum, and West Hood Canal. Mason County also includes over
350 miles of shoreline and nearly 100 freshwater lakes. The larger of these bodies are Lake
Cushman, Mason Lake, Lake Limerick, Isabella Lake, Timberlakes and Spencer Lake. Hood
Canal and Puget Sound account for most of Mason County’s 90 square miles of water. Two-
thirds of Hood Canal runs through Mason County. One fork of the Skokomish feeds Lake
Cushman and the hydroelectric power plant at Potlatch (built by the City of Tacoma). Other
notable rivers in Mason County are the Satsop and Hamma Hamma.
Mason County’s rich natural resources and open spaces dominate the County’s landscape.
Combined national, state, and private forests currently account for over 80% of the County’s
land. Mineral deposits support 18 operating surface mines. Agriculture and aquaculture areas
contribute both to the County’s beauty and its economy. Mason County also includes
substantial open space. Open space within the County hosts wildlife habitat, undeveloped
natural areas, and many developed park and recreation sites. These open space areas include
over 100 sites managed by federal, state, county, municipal and private interests. Within
Mason County, designated long-term commercial forest lands, National park lands and
National Forest lands are not available for development. Those three classifications
combined, account for approximately 56.8% of the land within Mason County.
Mason County’s climate can be characterized as moderate-maritime, influenced by the Pacific
Ocean, yet sheltered by the Olympic Mountains. Average temperatures range from a high or
77° F. in July to 33° F. in January. The average daily temperature in Mason County is 51° F.
The County receives an average of 66 inches of precipitation annually, with average monthly
rainfalls ranging from a low in July of 0.9 inches, to a high of 10.4 inches in January. There is
an average of 136 sunny days with 161 days of precipitation.
The marine shorelines in Mason County cover about 217 linear miles including the inner shores
of inlets, embayments, and estuaries.2 Elevations in the County range from 6,400 feet above
mean sea level (MSL) in the foothills of the Olympic Mountains, to sea level along the
coastline of Puget Sound and Hood Canal. Additionally, the communities in Mason County that
are low-lying and located adjacent to South Puget Sound and Hood Canal could be affected by
sea level rise.
2 Mason County Shoreline Inventory and Characterization Report - June 2011 Draft
TRUMAN GLICK PARK
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Chapter 1 Page 5
Climate change happens on scales ranging from decades to centuries. Sea levels in Puget
Sound are projected to rise between 3.0 inches and 22.0 inches by Year 2050 (Mote, 2008). All
of these fluctuations can have an impact on ecological conditions in the shoreline
environment. 3
Mason County’s 2012 population is 60,699 and is expected to grow to as many as 65,816 by
2018 and to 95,437 people by the year 2025. In fact, seasonal population is higher when
tourism is at its peak. The population can increase by 30-35% during the height of the season.4
Historically, the bulk of Mason County’s population growth has occurred in the unincorporated
areas of the County. The City of Shelton and the Urban Growth Areas of Allyn and Belfair,
however, are expected to attract a larger share of Mason County’s population growth in the
future. An example is the proposed Shelton Hills Development which estimates 1,600 new
single family residents in the City of Shelton.
With growth rates hovering around 2.5 percent, the last couple of years reflected the shift
seen nationwide and statewide in the economy. Total nonfarm employment has declined
since peaking at 14,640 in 2007. The 2010 data shows nonfarm jobs averaged 13,170. The past
calendar year started out with double digit unemployment and slumping nonfarm payrolls.
The detail shows no sector escaped this downturn as job losses in goods and services were the
norm during this national, state and local recession. While recession is no longer the word du
jour, the recovery is shaping up to be slow and uneven at best. Three important employment
points note that:
◆ “Goods-producing” employment in 2010 accounted for 2,140 jobs in Mason County,
with 770 of those in the natural resources, mining and construction sector and with
1,370 counted in manufacturing employment. The goods sector continues to
disappoint, as both construction and manufacturing employment levels are below
2000 levels.
◆ Employment in the “services-providing” sectors accounted for 11,040 jobs in 2010.
With its close proximity to neighboring counties and their population centers, the
affordable cost of living, matched with the desirable surroundings, the County has
upped its services-providing employment to meet demand. But growth during the
slowdown has been hard to come by, even with a beneficial geographic location.
◆ The “catch-all” is the “all other services” sector, which accounted for 3,070
paychecks in 2010. It follows “government” at 5,280, dropping from the largest
source of employment in the County. With the largest employer tag, comes the
burden of most vulnerable as this sector is certain to lose jobs in the future.
After posting an annual average decade-high unemployment rate of 8.6 percent in 2003, the
rate continued to drop to 5.8 in 2006 and 2007. Unfortunately, that trend has come to a stop
as the 2008 rate jumped to 7.0 percent, then to 10.7 in 2009 and to 11.1 in 2010. The
beginning of 2011 began to see a hold but with no promise that this current year would be the
bounce-back year.
Natural resource industries currently support Mason County’s economy and are expected to be
important in the future. The County is highly specialized in the production of forest and
aquaculture commodities. This specialization focuses on both raw materials and value-added
products in these industries. Heavy construction and government service also anchor the
County’s economy.
3 Appendix B - Addressing Sea Level Rise in Shoreline Master Programs
4 Mason County Comprehensive Plan April 1996 (updated 2005) Land Use Section
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Chapter 1 Page 6
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Chapter 2 Page 7
GOALS AND OBJECTIVES CHAPTER 2
GOALS AND OBJECTIVES
he following goals and objectives represent Mason County’s vision for the guidance
of parks and recreation during the next six years.
MISSION STATEMENT
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
T
Goals and Objectives Indicators Means of
Verification Assumptions
1. Administrative Goal
Quality professional personnel
guided by innovative strategies
to acquire, build, operate and
maintain the community and
regional parks, special use
areas, natural areas and a
County-wide trail system to
effectively serve the County in
the realization of this plan.
By 2018, assessments
by an ad hoc planning
advisory group verify that
most activities included
in the comprehensive
plan have been
successfully completed.
Assessment Report
on file in Director’s
Office
Funding is provided as
budgeted
Director
1.1-The Mason County
Facilities, Parks and Trails
Department leadership is
effectively linked with and
responsive to the citizens.
By the conclusion of
2018, feedback obtained
from individuals and
citizen groups indicates a
high level of satisfaction
with MCPR management.
Documented
feedback from
citizen groups on
file in Director’s
Office
The director is not
assigned additional,
non Parks and
Recreation duties
Staff Objectives
1.2-Superior and accessible
customer services are provided
to the public and all
departments in a professional,
informative and timely manner.
By the end of 2018,
survey data and
information obtained
from interviews with
those who use MCPR
facilities and services
show a high level of
satisfaction with the
available facilities and
with services provided.
Survey data and
summaries of
interviews on file in
Director’s Office
Staffing levels are not
reduced;
Budgets are
adequate.
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Chapter 2 Page 8
Goals and Objectives Indicators Means of
Verification Assumptions
Project Planning
3.2-Engagement of Mason
County residents in planning
and stewardship of park and
trail resources increases public
awareness and use of the park
and trail system.
By the end of 2017,
random surveys of parks
and trails as well as
reports by coaches of
teams using athletic
facilities show an
increase in use by the
public.
Survey notes and
reports on file in
Director’s Office.
Citizen participation in
planning, use and
additional
development of the
trail system
Project Implementation
3.3-Facilities are developed to
meet as many identified needs
as possible at community and
regional park sites.
By 2018, at least three
of the needs identified
through the Parks and
Trails Survey conducted
in 2012 and identified by
the advisory board as
doable priorities have
been completed.
Project reports and
minutes of Advisory
Board meetings.
Reliable funding
sources
Community Relations
3.4-Citizen planning committees
and stewardship programs
which identify conceptual short-
and long-term use,
management and maintenance
procedures and are developed
and supported.
By 2018,
recommendations
obtained from committee
meetings and stemming
from input of those
involved in stewardship
programs are
considered, prioritized
and implemented.
Project reports and
minutes of Advisory
Board meetings
Committees meet
regularly
Future Projects
3.5-Creative approaches are
applied in investigating and
pursuing potential resources for
providing future parks, trails
and recreation facilities.
By 2018, at least three
new resources have
been utilized to provide
funding and/or support
for parks, trails, and
recreation facilities.
Records of
resource
allocations on file
in Director’s Office
Donors have funds
and are interested in
supporting the
development of parks
and facilities
Coordination
3.6-Cooperation, coordination
and communication with
appropriate public and private
agencies, organizations and
individuals are promoted as
part of continuing efforts to
maximize public recreational
opportunities, minimize
duplication, and enhance
service to the entire community.
By June, 2013, all
stakeholders engaged in
planning for and
supporting the
development of public
recreational
opportunities have
developed a mutual
understanding of short-
and medium-term
priorities and have
outline steps to enhance
service to the citizens of
and visitors to the
County.
Agreed short- and
medium-term
priorities and
action steps on file
in the Director’s
Office
Existing partner
agencies continue to
support parks and
recreation efforts
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Chapter 2 Page 9
Goals and Objectives Indicators Means of
Verification Assumptions
4. Benefits Goal
4.1-The Mason County Parks
and Trails Department actively
promotes the individual,
community, health, economic
cultural and environmental
benefits of parks and recreation
services and facilities for all
residents of and visitors to
Mason County.
By 2015, the MCPR has
completed the
development of
promotional materials
and activities geared
toward engaging and
informing individuals and
communities of the
benefits of parks and
recreation services and
facilities.
Materials on file in
the Director’s
Office
Continued cooperation
with local cultural
entities e.g. Native
American, Hispanic
and Asian
Multiple Use
4.2-The system of parks, trails,
recreation facilities and natural
areas are resource effective
and distributed community-wide
to provide multiple benefits to
the Mason County citizens and
visitor.
By 2018, the
development of parks
and recreation facilities
and natural areas
developed in the 6-year
plan period reflect
expenditures and
developments that are
distributed among the
three commissioner
districts.
Parks & Recreation
budgets,
development
plans, meeting
minutes on file in
the Directors Office
Needs adequate
appropriation to fund
projects
Trails/ Pedestrian Linkage
4.3- A regional system of
connected, coordinated
linkages to major recreational
areas, public facilities,
cultural/environmental
features, parks, open spaces,
via trails, paths, bicycle routes
and other travel corridors that
separate vehicular traffic and
non-vehicular traffic identified,
investigated and developed
where feasible.
By the end of 2013, a
master plan identifying
potential off street links
between parks, open
spaces, public facilities
and areas of interest is
drafted
Off Street Corridor
Master Plan draft
on file in Director’s
Office
Public support and on-
going use of off street
trails and where right
of way is obtained
Natural Resource Areas
4.4- Actions to preserve natural
areas, protect fish and wildlife
habitat corridors, conserve land,
provide appropriate public
access and offer environmental
education opportunities are
promoted.
By the end of 2013,
strategies and materials
for promoting the
preservation of natural
areas, protecting fish and
wildlife habitat and for
providing access and
educational opportunities
are drafted and reviewed
by representatives of the
public.
Strategies and
materials on file in
Director’s Office
No major pollution
events
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Chapter 2 Page 10
Goals and Objectives Indicators Means of
Verification Assumptions
Water Access
4.5- Opportunities for water
access and activities are
provided throughout the County.
By 2014, potential areas
for providing access to
water bodies are
identified and a
committee established to
visit and assess each.
Maps and
committee reports
on file in Directors
Office
Some of the current
potential access areas
are available
Cultural
4.6-Cultural and historic
resources are preserved and
promoted wherever they exist in
parks and on trails throughout
the County.
By 2015, as a matter of
policy, new park, trail and
natural areas that may
have potentially
important cultural or
historical significance are
identified and plans
made to preserve them.
Signage and maps
in parks and on
trails call attention
to sites of cultural
or historical
importance.
Vandalism is
minimized
Athletics
4.7 Youth and adult athletic
recreation facilities are provided
throughout the County.
By the end of 2018,
based on priorities
identified through public
surveys and other forms
of input at least two new
recreational areas are
identified and developed.
Plans, maps and
documents on file
in the Directors
Office
Grant funding is
available to augment
county funds
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Chapter 3 Page 11
PUBLIC INVOLVEMEN CITIZEN INPUT CHAPTER 3
Introduction
Public involvement in the update to the Mason County Parks and Recreation Comprehensive
Plan included the Mason County Commissioners’ selection of seventeen local residents who
volunteered to assist with the update of the park and recreation plan. The “Citizens Advisory
Group” (CAG) brought their time,
talents, commitment and input into the
completion of the final draft presented
to the Mason County Park Advisory Board
for adoption by the Mason County
Commissioners.
The Mason County Park Advisory Board
held regular public meetings with
briefing on the status, progress and
review of chapters, surveys and
documents presented for their
concurrence and approval.
In addition to advisory and board public
meetings, Mason County presented a series of
news updates through local newspapers, a radio station and as a “Spotlight on Park” through
the Mason County Outdoors publication. Citizens were informed of the current planning
process and provided details of upcoming public meetings, workshops, the opportunity for
involvement in the community survey and up-dated continual information placed on the
Mason County Parks Department web page with a link to the survey at
http://www.co.mason.wa.us/parks/index.php.
The two community outreach opportunities included the Community Questionnaire Survey
and the county-wide Community Workshops. Presented is input and findings from each of
these public out-reach programs.
NORTH MASON COMMUNITY WORKSHOP
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Chapter 3 Page 12
Mason County Facilities, Parks and Trails Department Questionnaire
Introduction
This report summarizes comments from the three Community Workshops and the finding of
the Community Questionnaire survey for the current planning effort. The questionnaire
summary of results were assembled by MIG, Inc. in support of planning services performed by
AjO Consulting and in conjunction with the Mason County Facilities, Parks and Trails staff,
citizen committee members and community leaders. The questionnaire addressed community
needs and priorities for the future of parks, facilities and open space in Mason County. It
provided one of several opportunities for the community at large to have their ideas, opinions
and concerns included in the park system comprehensive planning process.
Methodology
The questionnaire was designed for the web and presented online via a link from the Parks
Department’s website. A printed version of the questionnaire was also available in both
English and Spanish at select locations throughout the County or by contacting the
Department office. The questionnaire was available from April to early June 2012.
This style of questionnaire is accessible to the community at large and respondents self
select, therefore results cannot be considered a random sample. Results from a non-random
sample are, by nature, not scientifically accurate as a randomly-distributed survey would be.
However, as a practical point, MIG has found that results between non-random questionnaires
and random sample surveys in parks and recreation have been closely aligned and provide
useful and relevant information about public input for planning purposes. Advantages of this
type of outreach tool include accessibility, adaptability and convenience.
Nearly 600 respondents answered the questionnaire, which as a response rate for Mason
County indicate an outstanding level of interest and participation on the part of the citizens.
This level of response surpasses response rates for similar exercises MIG has developed for
much larger populations.
Key Findings
There were no limits on who could participate in this questionnaire. To clarify the potential
results, several questions were asked about the respondents including age, gender, and two
questions to identify residence locations throughout Mason County. Several themes emerged
from the initial analysis of the community questionnaire results.
Park and trail needs expressed through this questionnaire emphasized multi-use trails, with
emphasis on connections between north and south areas of the County and to County
destinations (parks, schools etc.) Hiking and nature trails were also noted favorably.
Respondents indicated significant interest in increased fitness and wellness and recreational
opportunities through trails for hiking, biking and wildlife viewing.
Water access opportunities were reflected as a continued priority for respondents, while
acquiring additional park land did not seem to be as important as maintaining existing
recreational facilities. The respondents did show significant willingness to provide funding
support for the acquisition and development of walking and biking trails and bike routes.
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Chapter 3 Page 13
Summary of Results:
Having the questionnaire form translated to Spanish increased efforts to reach the Hispanic
population of Mason County. Results are presented in tabular form with highlights bulleted
below questions answered. The complete survey public input to the questionnaire is
presented in Appendix B.
Mason County Facilities, Parks & Trails Department Community Workshops
Three Community Workshops were held in April 2012 throughout Mason County. One of the
workshops was held at the Shelton Choice High School, which provided important and
insightful input and perspective from youth.
The three workshops presented a series of questions of citizens and for their observations
regarding “What has Changed?” in Mason County over the past six years. The citizens focused
on localized issues, demographics, as well as losses and gains in recreational and park
opportunities for the community at large.
The second discussion centered on “What is needed?” which included programs, facilities,
lands, natural open space as well as leadership.
The final workshop question dealt with their “Dreams” which offered their vision for the
parks and recreation department as well as possibilities over the next six to twenty years,
with final input into what they desire to see in their County park system.
Individual summaries of each workshop are attached in Appendix B: Public
Involvement/Community Questionnaire.
The citizens provided the following input at each of the workshops that relate to the four
categories of the Mason County Park and Recreation Goals.
Goal 1: Administration:
CChhaannggeess--
◆Population higher
◆16% retired and 16% teens
◆Sewer system in Belfair. Will
bring growth & more demand for
parks
◆Pro-active management ahead of
population push
◆MCTC Transit Center closed for
repair
◆High gas prices
NNeeeeddss--
◆Recreation programs
◆More funding
◆Environmental (beach rangers) in Union
WORKSHOP AT SHELTON HIGH SCHOOL
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Chapter 3 Page 14
Goal 2: Maintenance and Renovation:
CChhaannggeess--
◆Sandhill lower fields are good
◆Caretaking at Sandhill has gone down (tunnel/scotch broom)
◆Parks have declined
◆Trails are less convenient (not safe)
◆Low maintenance
DDrreeaammss-
◆Jacoby Park Dock & Improvement
Goal 3: Projects and Planning:
CChhaannggeess--
◆New Race Track/Motor Sports Park
◆Need to address the built environment for health/economy
◆Youth sports decreased because of family needs & economy
◆Young adults? Where are they in recreation?
◆Gym time hard to get.
◆Bowling alley gone
◆Subway is 24 hours
◆Indoor basketball
NNeeeeddss--
◆Soccer and football fields (maybe at Sandhill)
◆Dirt Bike BMX
◆Public swimming pool/aquatic center
◆All weather fields
◆Shooting range
◆Walled/rugged terrain exercise par-course/obstacle course/paintball/zip-line
◆Boat Ramp Shorecrest/Jacoby Park
DDrreeaammss--
◆Outdoor swimming pool
◆Dog park
◆RV Parks
◆Fairground Event Center “new”
Goal 4: Benefits:
CChhaannggeess--
◆Growing Guatemalan community in north
◆More for kids
◆More for girls in sports
◆Among the least healthy Counties (WA) 37th out of 39
◆Trails needs: equestrian/walk/bike etc.
◆Trails are served first?
◆Increase need for kayaking
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Chapter 3 Page 15
NNeeeeddss--
◆More nature trails/trails for various users
◆Place for camping
◆Gym for gymnastics, boxing, classes
◆Skate land/skateboarding facility
◆Communication with other organizations for planning
◆Small scale music & arts event
DDrreeaammss--
◆Indoor skate park for year-round use/skate land
◆Boxing/MMA Gym/music studio/indoor recreation center
◆Better movie theater
◆Safe routes to homes and schools
Key Findings and Summary of Community Workshops
Input from the citizens was realistic and understood the current economic limitations. Their
conversations centered around the continue need for recreational opportunities that provided
benefit to the youth in the communities but also address the growing need for access to
water and expansion of trails. Water access was reflected in a number of opportunities
identified which ranged from shoreline access to both freshwater and saltwater. They
expressed their dream of water opportunities that included an aquatic complex either indoor
or outdoor.
Trails and safe routes to schools were stressed and they were concerned about safety with
walking and traveling along busy highways. Separated and linking trails were identified as
both a need but also a dream.
Outdoor activities were stressed and ranged from new to renovated sports fields, an
additional skate park as well as working with citizen and non-profit groups that help to
provide stewardship or volunteer assistance to improve park sites.
Many expressed the changes that have occurred over the past six years with a diminishing
economy and limited funding but were observant to point out the changes in population
demographic, the potential for accelerated growth in the Belfair area but the continual
demand for positive opportunities for youth through programs or facilities at existing outdoor
parks but also potentially new indoor facilities.
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Chapter 3 Page 16
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Chapter 4 Page 17
INVENTORY CHAPTER 4
EXISTING FACILITIES
n order to manage the most effective and efficient park system, the existing inventory
is defined by different types of parks. Each classification provides for a specific type of
recreation experience and opportunity. The parks and recreation system provides
benefits that affect property values, tourism, health and fitness, community cohesion, clean
water/air and provides overall value to quality of life.
The following collection of inventory data provides a view of the system for understanding of
the dynamics of the Mason County Park and Trails Department. Table 4.1 summarizes parks
owned and managed by the Department. Currently, Mason County owns and manages 23 sites
with 956.96 acres of developed and undeveloped park property. The park system offers a
wide range of active and passive recreational opportunities including ball fields, picnic areas,
walking, biking and water trails, boat launches, natural area and wildlife habitat open spaces.
Table 4.1 Existing Mason County Parks
PARK ACRES
Coulter Creek 55.00
Decker Creek 500.00
Foothills County Park – (2 sites Neighborhood Park & Natural Open Space) 80.00
Harstine Island Park 6.90
Harvey Rendsland Jiggs Lake Park 15.00
Hunter Park , Clifton Lane, Belfair 0.15
Jacoby/Shorecrest 2.80
Latimer’s Landing Boat Launch & Latimer’s Overflow Parking (2 sites) 5.00
Mason County Recreation Area 40.00
Mason County Skate Park #1 0.50
Mason Lake County Park 17.36
Menard’s Landing Day Use Area & Boat Launch (2 Sites) 7.40
Oakland Bay Historical Park 81.87
Phillips Lake Park 0.40
Sandhill County Park 30.00
Sunset Bluff Park 36.00
Truman Glick Memorial Park 35.46
Union Boat Ramp 0.16
Union Park 1.92
Walker Park 5.04
Watson Wildwood View Park 36.00
TOTAL ACREAGE 956.96
I
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Chapter 4 Page 18
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Chapter 4 Page 19
Mason County has four classifications of parks, which include:
◆Neighborhood Parks
◆Community Parks
◆Regional Parks
◆Natural Areas
Table 4.2 summarizes the parks by classification, listing the total number of acres and sites.
In Appendix B, detailed descriptions of each of the County’s parks are listed by recommended
classification with details of existing conditions, inventory and future capital needs.
Table 4.2 Summary Existing Parks
Park Type Acres
Total
Number
of Sites
Neighborhood Parks 12.07 3
Community Parks 180.12 13
Regional Parks 151.87 3
Natural Open Space 612.90 4
TOTAL 956.96 23
Neighborhood Parks:
Neighborhood Parks serve a ½-mile distance to most citizens and provide a local destination
for nearby communities. They are used for non-supervised play and typically accommodate a
variety of activities including children’s playgrounds, picnic tables, open grass for passive use,
outdoor basketball court and restrooms.
Table 4.3 Neighborhood Parks
Neighborhood Parks
Inventory Acres Ownership Ball fields Barbecues Boat Launch Picnic Shelter Sport Courts Fishing Nature Areas Picnicking Play Area Restroom Walking Jogging ADA Picnic Reservation Skateboard Passive Dogs allowed Foothills Park 10.00 C x x x x x x x x
Hunter Park 0.15 C x x x x
Union Park 1.92 C x x x x x x x x x x x
TOTAL Acreage
Neighborhood Parks 12.07
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Chapter 4 Page 20
Community Parks:
Community parks are designed to serve as a focal point for community-wide or sub-
urban/rural areas of the County. They are smaller than regional parks and often include
unique or specific uses with special features. They allow for an active recreation with fields,
lighting, parking and vehicle traffic. The Mason County Community Parks offer playgrounds,
picnic areas, passive use areas, trails, boat launches, restrooms and ball fields. Table 4.4 lists
the Community Parks in Mason County and the facilities at each park.
Table 4.4 Community Parks
Community Parks
Quick Inventory Acres Ownership Ball fields Barbecues Boat Launch Picnic Shelter Sport Courts Fishing Nature Areas Picnicking Play Area Restroom Walking Jogging ADA Picnic Reservation Skateboard Passive Dogs allowed Coulter Creek 55.00 x x x x x x x
Harvey Rendsland Park 15.00 C x x x x x x
Jacoby/Shorecrest Park 2.80 C x x x x x
Latimer’s Landing Boat
Launch & Parking 5.00 C x x x x x x
Mason Co Skatepark #1 0.50 C x x x x x
Mason Lake Park 17.36 C x x x x x x x x x
Menard’s Landing Launch
& Day Use Area 7.40 C x * x x x x x x
Phillips Lake Park 0.40 C x x x x
Sunset Bluff Park 36.00 C x x x x
Truman Glick Park 35.46 C x x x x x x x x x x x
Union Boat Ramp 0.16 C x x x
Walker Park 5.04 C x * x x x x x x x x x x x
TOTAL Acreage
Community Parks 215.12
C = Mason County Ownership
* = Hand Carry Launch Only
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Chapter 4 Page 21
Regional Parks:
Regional Parks have significant acreage and serve the entire County population. These parks
allow for recreational use, with special features that may have a unique offering focusing on
active and passive recreation. In Mason County there are three major regional parks: Mason
County Recreation Area (MCRA) near Shelton in south-county, the Oakland Bay Park is north
Shelton and south of Belfair and Sandhill Park near Belfair in the north. Table 4.5 lists the
regional parks and facilities, which are:
Table 4.5 Regional Parks
Regional Parks
Quick
Inventory Acres Ownership Ball fields Barbecues Boat Launch Picnic Shelter Sport Courts Fishing Nature Areas Picnicking Play Area Restroom Walking Jogging ADA Picnic Reservation Skateboard Trails Dogs allowed Mason County
Recreation Area 40.00 C x x x x x x
Oakland Bay Park 81.87 C x x x x x
Sandhill Park 30.00 C x x x x x
TOTAL Acreage
Regional Parks 151.87
C = County Ownership
Natural Open Space Areas:
Natural open space parks can vary in size and function and can include significant acreage.
They are defined as land or water left primarily in its natural state. Left generally
undeveloped they provide habitat value or serve as preservation areas for protected habitat
and species. Waterfront parks are linked to the adopted Shoreline Master Plan. Passive
recreation includes hiking, bird watching, boating, fishing, picnicking, beachcombing, wildlife
viewing and other activities. Table 4.6 lists the four County Natural Open Space Parks and
features.
Table 4.6 Natural Open Space
Natural Open
Space
Parks Quick
Inventory Acres Ownership Ball fields Barbecues Boat Launch Picnic Shelter Sport Courts Fishing Nature Areas Picnicking Play Area Restroom Walking Jogging ADA Picnic Reservation Passive Trails Dogs allowed Decker Creek 500.00 C x
Foothills Park 70.00 C x X x X
Harstine Island Park 6.90 C x x X
Watson Wildwood 36.00 C x x x
TOTAL Natural
Open Space 612.90
C = County Ownership
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Chapter 4 Page 22
County Recreation Facilities:
Mason County offers a variety of recreation and sport facilities within its parks which adds
opportunities and experiences for citizens and visitors to the County. Listed below in Table
4.7 are the major facilities maintained by the Facilities, Parks & Trails Department:
Table 4.7 Facility Inventory Summary
Facility/Feature/
Structure Amount
Basketball Court
3
Barbecues 65
Ball fields 14
Batting Cages 2
Boat Launch 4
Fishing
7
Hand Carry Boat Launch 6
Facility/Feature/
Structure Amount
Nature Area 7
Picnic Shelter 3
Picnicking 11
Playgrounds 5
Restrooms 11
Skatepark 1
Walking/Jogging 6
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Chapter 4 Page 23
State, Federal, Shelton, County, Special District and State Recreation Resources:
There are a number of other governmental agencies which own and manage park property in
Mason County. Figure 4.8 shows the various landowners, acreage or number of sites, and park
amenities at each park location. There are over 5,000 acres of parkland owned and managed
by other government agencies within the boundaries of Mason County.
Table 4.8
Other Mason County Parkland
Facility/Owner Acres Amenities Available
Private-Non Profit Sports Club
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
Washington State Parks
Belfair State Park 65.00
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
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Chapter 4 Page 24
Facility/Owner Acres Amenities Available Acres Amenities Available
Washington State Fish and Wildlife
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 1.0 Water access, undeveloped
North Bay 2.3 Shellfish /Puget Sound, 15 parking spaces, 1 toilet
Oakland Bay 2 Walk-in only, 1 toilet
Panhandle Lake 20 Undeveloped
Panther Lake 3.8 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
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Chapter 4 Page 25
Facility/Owner Acres Amenities Available Acres Amenities Available
Washington State Fish and Wildlife
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.
Washington State Department of Natural Resources
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 RV's
permitted, toilets, 1 covered picnic area, Effendahl
Pass 4x4 Trailhead
Howell Lake Day use only, hand boat launch, toilets, pic nic 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 trial access
Robbins Lake 1.1 175 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
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Chapter 4 Page 26
Facility/Owner Acres Amenities Available
Washington State Department of Natural Resources
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
Skokomish Tribal Nation
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
(transfer from Tacoma City Light) 1 Park and Lake Kokanee boat launches/restrooms for
public use.
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.
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Chapter 4 Page 27
Facility/Owner Acres Amenities Available
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
Port of Dewatto
Dewatto River Campground 1
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
Port of Shelton
Sanderson Field 1,170 Airfield, fairground (67 acres)
Oakland Bay Marina Boat moorage and launch, pump-out, parking
Mason County Public Schools
Belfair Elementary .5 Playground
Sandhill 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
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.
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Chapter 4 Page 28
Facility/Owner Acres Amenities Available
Mason County Public Schools
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/ Olympic National Park
Olympic Nat. Park- Staircase Camp 1 Picnic area, 50 campsites, 60 parking spaces
USDA / Olympic National Forest
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 & Trails Comprehensive Plan Chapter 4 Page 29
EXISTING OPERATIONS / PARK MAINTENANCE
ason County currently operates 23 parks with a variety of recreation facilities
totaling 956.96 acres. These parks range from natural areas to intensive use
areas, such as a skate park and two regional baseball-softball facilities. At the
present time, Mason County does not offer any department-sponsored recreation programs
or special events at any of its parks. These structured recreation programs are offered by
local youth sports associations, non-profit organizations or by the Shelton Metropolitan Park
District.
M
Citizens
Parks & Trails
Advisory Board
Commissioner
District 1
Commissioner
District 2
Director of Facilities,
Parks and Trails
Commissioner
District 3
Park & Trails Maintenance I
Facilities Coordinator
Park & Trails Maintenance II Program support
Technician
PARKS & TRAILS
DIVISION
FACILITIES DIVISION ADMINISTRATIVE SUPPORT
Park & Trails Maintenance I
Park & Trails Part-Time
Seasonal Help Park Attendants/Hosts
Volunteers &
Service
Organizations
Facilities Custodian I
Facilities Maintenance III
Facilities Maintenance II
Facilities Custodian I
Facilities Maintenance II
Facilities Custodian I
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Chapter 4 Page 30
JACOBY/SHORECREST PARK
he Mason County Facilities, Parks and Trails Department is separated into divisions
providing administration, park maintenance and operations and facility services. The
general administration includes the Senior Accounting Technician, Facility Scheduler
and the Department Director. This division is responsible for general customer service,
facilities scheduling, payroll, accounts payable, accounts receivable, general administration,
park planning, grant administration, park development, and special projects. The park
division provides maintenance and operation of all the County parks. Park staff in this division
includes one Park Maintenance II and two Park Maintenance I full-time maintenance
employees. The previous chart illustrates the current organizational structure of Mason
County Facilities, Parks and Trails Department.
The Facilities, Parks & Trails Department administrative offices are located at Mason County
Recreation Area (MCRA). The maintenance staff also stages all operations from the MCRA in
the course of performing their daily operations and maintenance. Staff travel long distances
throughout the County to maintain parks at various locations. In the southern area of the
County is Truman-Glick Park, located west of Matlock while on the north area of the County
near Tahuya is Menard’s Landing Launch & Day Use Area and Harvey Rendsland Jiggs Lake
Park. These two locations require the most travel time but fortunately they are low-
maintenance park facilities.
Mason County Facilities, Parks and Trails Department also employs seasonal employees in
addition to 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.
County park hosts are currently at
Foothills Park, Truman Glick Park and
Mason Lake Park. The park hosts are
responsible for security, opening and
closing park facilities, and general
clean-up during their contractual
period. Park hosts are invaluable to
the County because of the geographic
dispersion of Mason County’s park
system.
Administrative and Maintenance
objectives encourage the promotion
of professional staff that is effective
and responsive in sustaining quality
services and exploring opportunities
to enhance the benefits and function
of the park system.
T
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Chapter 4 Page 31
Goal 1 and Goal 2 Identify the need to have quality staff that effectively serves the County
park system.
Project and Planning Goals promote citizen engagement in stewardship objectives in the park
plan address the need to develop facilities that reduce maintenance costs with established
maintenance standards for efficiency and safety with realistic multi-year plans that can be
implemented and funded.
Goal 3 summarizes this effort which is to “Plan, acquire and develop parks, trails and
recreation facilities which provide public opportunities that maximize identified needs,
minimize duplication and enhance recommended park services throughout Mason County.”
The Benefits Goal actively promotes the individual, community, health, economic cultural
and environmental benefits of parks and recreation services and facilities for all residents of
and visitors to Mason County.
The Mason County Facilities, Parks and Trails 2012 budget total for Parks and Trails (Fund
145/ $487,597 (2%)) and Facilities and Grounds (Fund 055 /$1,034,872 (4%)) or a total of 6% of
the total Mason County General Fund Budget.
Through annual appropriation, the Mason County Facilities, Parks and Trails Department can
receive through the annual budget process, capital funding through the Mason County Real
Estate Excise Tax funding (REET). As described in detail in Chapter 7, (REET) is an optional
tax of the property’s sale price. One-half of one percent for REET #1 can be used for capital
acquisition and the second half of one percent which is REET #2, can be used for capital
development only. The 2012 Mason County Real Estate Excise Tax (REET #1) actual received is
$251,106 and actual received for REET #2 is $828,332.
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Chapter 4 Page 32
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Chapter 5 Page 33
DEMAND AND NEEDS ANALYSIS CHAPTER 5
Introduction:
he purpose of the Needs Analysis is to evaluate, quantify and understand both the
facility and recreational demand and identify the existing and future needs for
providing parkland, facilities, open spaces from now and into the future. The definition
of needs includes both preservation of existing services/resources as well as the needs into
the future. The current update, presented here, reflects the needs, desires and
recommended priorities that set the foundation for the next 15-20 years.
The 2013 determination of the need for park, facilities, and open space is based on public
input and the community’s vision for the County system. Interpreting that vision for Mason
County involved multiple tasks, including identification of existing park and facility inventory,
public involvement, review of trends, geographic analysis, identified data and use demand
and calculations with application of standards for analysis.
Standards are based on the National Recreation and Park Association’s (NRPA) guidelines.
Adequate land is at a minimum based on a “core” system of parklands, with “adjunct”
parklands that reflect Mason County as compared to other demands identified in local park
and recreational systems throughout the Pacific Northwest. This plan assesses the
recreational demands of Mason County starting with the national and state standards and
trends, past levels of service standards, public involvement that identified County-wide
needs.
Scope and Purpose:
The NRPA also defines a classification system of parks which include neighborhood parks,
community parks, regional parks and natural open space.
Parks vary in size, function, and service area depending on the classification. The NRPA has
also developed demand standards as a guideline
for the number of parks facilities needed per
population.
Levels of Service (LOS) are quantifiable
measures of the amount of public facilities that
are provided to the County. Typically, LOS
measures are expressed as ratios of facility
capacity to demand. For the Mason County Parks
and Recreation Comprehensive Plan, LOS is
expressed in acres of parkland or facilities per
1,000 people.
T
TRUMAN GLICK PARK SHELTER AREA
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Chapter 5 Page 34
SOCIO-DEMOGRAPHIC ANALYSIS AND PROJECTIONS:
Mason County was seconded fastest growing County in state in 2006. The total population of
Mason County is currently is 60,699. The Office of Fiscal Management (OFM) predicts
population projections under the Growth Management Act (GMA) to accommodate growth
over the next 20 years. The GMA estimated growth predictions of .5% annual growth is
significantly lower than the actual 1.15% total increase since 2000.
This report uses 60,699 as the population for level of service analysis, and 65,816 for 2018
with the 2025 future population estimate of 71,929 to calculate the demand standards. The
persons-per-square-mile in Mason County is 63.3 as compared to the average population per
square mile in Washington State of 101. The male and female distribution is approximately
50% each which reflects the overall State ratio. The percentage of people 19 years of age or
younger is 22.8% which is lower than the state average of 30%. The percentage of the
population between the ages of 20-39 is 21.0%; 40-59 is 29.1%, and the remaining 25.8% are
60 and above.5
Table 5.1
Population Forecast
2012 2018 2025
Mason County 60,699 65,816 71,929
Source: Washington State OFM/Medium Estimate
Existing and Proposed Level of Service:
This Chapter provides an in-depth look at parkland and facilities currently provided in Mason
County. On an overall basis of parkland ratio to population or Existing Level-of-Service (ELOS),
Mason County currently manages 956.96 acres of parkland with an exiting park ratio (ELOS) of
15.77 acres per 1,000 people. If Mason County grows as projected6 and develops the proposed
parks described in this plan, the ratio of parks per population or Proposed Level-of-Service
(PLOS) will improve 12% by 2018 and 20% by 2025 meeting future population LOS demand.
Over the past six years, Mason County has aggressively changed their ratio of parks per 1,000
with acquisition of prime natural open space partnering with non-profit conservation groups
and by securing matching grant funding. Into the future, retention of parkland acreage and
recreation facilities will need to be maintained to keep pace with the population growth and
retain existing acres per 1,000 population into the future.
Facility Demand and Needs Analysis:
The demand and needs analysis is detailed in sections 5.1 and 5.2 for parkland and facilities.
The process includes inventory reviews to determine the existing need (what the citizens
want/identify) and future demand (calculations/comparisons). Development of the statement
of “need” is dependent on local values, financial resources and desired level of service (LOS).
This analysis represents a combination of results from the 2012 Mason County Facilities, Parks
and Trails Community Questionnaire7, Community Workshops and state and national standards
and trends related to existing inventory, as well as current and future population which forms
a statistical standard to meet demand.
5 2010 U.S. Census Mason County WA; by age. [under 10 yrs-10.9%/ 10-19: 11.9%/ 20-29:10.9%/30-39:11.2%40-
49:13.0%/50-59:16.1 %/60-69:13.7%/70-79:8.0%/80 and older 4.1%]
6 Belfair improvements and population expansion with residential development like Shelton Hills future growth
throughout the County will relate to the growth and needs demands anticipated.
7 Appendix B provides the full Community Questionnaire report.
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Chapter 5 Page 35
As one indicator of the public input with regard to “need” is from the Community
Questionnaire an overall question was asked that, “If you had $100.00 to spend on parks and
recreation in Mason County, how would you allocate it amongst the following functions?”
473 responded to this question which provides insight into the community priorities. The
largest average allocations were for acquisition or development of trails and improvements to
existing parks and playgrounds. Water access continues to reflect the community priorities as
was seen in the past planning period.
POPULATION ALLOCATIONS/Baseline Criteria:
Numerical level of service standards for parks and facilities are a traditional methodology
that was originally advocated by the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA). The
LOS method is used nationally and in the Washington Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor
Recreation (SCORP 2010) planning process. The NRPA population ratio guidelines establish an
overall parkland/open space guideline of 10 acres per 1,000 population (NRPA 1983, 1996).
Additionally, it also provides guidelines for park types (e.g. neighborhood, community,
regional and natural open space) as well as recreation facilities (e.g. sports fields, playground
etc.)
Table 5.2 NRPA Guideline Standards for Population
Park Type Guideline
Neighborhood Park 1-2 acres/1,000
Community Park 5-8 acres /1,000
Regional 5-10 acres/1,000
Natural Open Space Variable
Recreation Facilities
Baseball/Softball Fields 1 field/5,000
Playgrounds 1 playground/3,000
Soccer Fields 1 field/10,000
Tennis Courts 1 court/2,000
Trails (miles) 0.5 miles/1,000
New Park Acquisition,
$12.00 Improve/Maintain
Existing Parks &
Playgrounds $20.00
Development of
Waterfront Parks to
Improve Water Access
$15,00
New Athletic Facilities,
$8.00
Walking/Bike Trails/
Routes Acquire &
Develop
$21.00
New Deveopment of
Parks & Facilities,
$10.00
Other, $14.00
How would you spend $100.00 on Parks?
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Chapter 5 Page 36
PARK GEOGRAPHIC LEVEL-OF-SERVICE/RCO8 Enhanced Criteria:
The distribution of parks in various areas throughout the County creates a more balanced
system of parks and facilities county-wide. The geographic method of planning and
identification of “service areas” relies on (GIS) mapping of existing parks and the associated
distance and time of travel. Parkland and facilities within the service area will have access to
the parks and facilities while those outside the area of travel distance are identified as
lacking opportunities. The use of the service area identification provides analysis of gaps in
the parkland system. NRPA also recommends service areas for park type and both location
and percent of population served will be used in the analysis of the needs for Mason County.
Table 5.3: NRPA Service Area Guideline Recommendations
Service Area
Range
Neighborhood
Park
Community
Park
Regional
Park
Natural Open
Space
Recommended ½-mile 1-mile 15-miles County-wide
Acceptable ½ -mile 2-miles 20-miles County-wide
Minimum 1-mile 3-miles 25-miles County-wide
RECREATION AND CONSERVATION OFFICE (RCO) STATEWIDE LEVEL-OF-SERVICE
RECOMMENDATIONS:
The Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office (RCO) proposed a LOS planning tool
to help assess the provision of and need for park and recreation facilities. The RCO proposed
two preliminary LOS planning tools: one for state agencies and one for local agencies. These
preliminary LOS tools were presented as a proposal not as a mandate, in a 2008 Statewide
Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP) document entitled, Defining and Measuring
Success: The Roles of State Government in Outdoor Recreation. As an additional testing
process, existing sources of data and information will be used to assess baseline conditions on
a random selection of county outdoor recreational facilities, using the proposed LOS tools. As
stated by the RCO, the preliminary local agency LOS tool “reflects public input that as just
one indicator of need is not enough to adequately capture the complex nature of
determining and providing access and recreation opportunities.” The tool is intended to meet
the needs of communities and counties of differing sizes and varied planning capabilities; it
includes three sets of guidelines of which the first two measurements are the traditional
NRPA population allocation and park geographic LOS service area indicators. The RCO/SCORP
identified guidelines include:
1. Baseline Criteria (Population Allocations -Table 5.2): Per capita participation (in
outdoor recreation activities) indicators.
2. Enhanced Criteria (Park Geographic LOS - Table 5.3): GIS-based travel
distance/population density indicators.
3. “In-Depth” Criteria: Function-related indicators.9
Quantity Criteria
Quality Criteria
Distribution and Access Criteria
8 (RCO) Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office
9 The needs assessment will use one or all three as an indicator to address a specific planning need and/or may
assess all applicable function-related indicators to inform the entire planning process. RCO Level of Service
Summary Assessment attached in Appendix B.
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Chapter 5 Page 37
NATIONAL TRENDS FOR LOCAL RECREATION PLANNING:
In 2004 the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) developed a list of trends which
will have the greatest impact on local agencies planning for recreation facilities. National
trends, the perception of the environment, socio-economics, technology and urban and rural
development will affect the need for and the use of park and recreation facilities. Pertinent
NRPA trends that will affect Mason County’s planning efforts for developing and maintaining
parks, facilities and open space are as follows:
A greater need for walking and biking on trails, sidewalks, within parks and
along streets, and utility corridors.
Pressure to increase park capacity and infrastructure of existing parks and
concern for adequate maintenance.
Protective measures for open space.
Preventive recreation, that is, recreation as an antidote for social problems.
Recreation for groups limited by income, physical disability, language, or
cultural barriers.
Collaboration among program and facility providers, partnering and cooperation
between public, private, and non-profit sectors, especially social service
agencies.
5.1 PARKLAND AND NATURAL OPEN SPACE
Analysis of the needs defines and serves as a guideline of the types of parks and recreation
facilities which are grouped in the following two sections. These sections identify existing and
future need for funding and administration of the Mason County system. The sections are:
5.1 Parkland and Open Space
5.1.A Neighborhood Parks
5.1.B Community Parks
5.1.C Regional Parks
5.1.D Natural Open Space
5.2 Recreation Facilities
5.2.A Sports Fields
5.2.B Trails
5.2.C Children’s Play Areas
5.2.D Other:
5.2.D-1: Shooting Sports
5.2.D-2: Boat Ramps and Docks
5.2.D-3: Group Picnic Areas
5.2.D-4: Basketball Court/Outdoor Pad
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Chapter 5 Page 38
The 2006 Mason County Comprehensive Park and Recreation Comprehensive Plan identified
existing parks and open space, as well as current deficiency and future need. The NRPA
definitions of parkland will be used in this report which reflects the definitions used in the
November 2010 RCO10 Statewide LOS Recommendations Report. The following table provides
the defined parkland inventory and the existing need.
Table 5.4: Service Area Guide of Acres per Population Allocation
Park Classification Existing
Acres
Mason County
LOS*
Current (2013)
Deficiency/Need
Future (2018)
Deficiency/Need
NRPA/RCO
Guideline
Neighborhood Park 12.07 .20 Acres/1,000 0/12.7 Acres 14.40Total Acres 1 Acre/1,000
Community Park 180.12 3.0 Acres/1,000 0/180.12 Acres 216 Total Acres 5 Acres/1,000
Regional Park 151.87 3.5 Acres/1,000 77/229 Acres 250 Total Acres 5 Acres/1,000
Natural/Open Space 612.90 10 Acres/1,000 45/658 Acres 720 Total Acres No Standard
TOTAL 956.96 1,200.40
* Existing Level-Of-Service: Table 5.5 through Table 5.8
5.1A: NEIGHBORHOOD PARKS:
Neighborhood parks are typically developed on a County-wide basis, located near residents to
provide an important and convenient access to visit a park in localized neighborhoods.
Neighborhood parks are not as efficient to maintain and operate as larger community parks.
However, they can be maintained by volunteers or local non-profit community groups.
There are three neighborhood parks consisting of 12.7 acres in the Mason County planning
area. These include:
◆ Foothills Park
◆ Hunter Park
◆ Union Park
Service Area
The acceptable service area
for Neighborhood Parks is ½-
mile to 1-mile radius from
local residents. Mason County
has 1-mile service area for
Neighborhood Parks.
10 (RCO) Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office
FOOTHILLS PARK
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Chapter 5 Page 39
Public Input/Trends
2012 Mason County Community Questionnaire results/survey input:
◆ Neighborhood Parks with fields, courts, play and picnic areas ranked third and fourth
(31% and 30%) when asked what additional facilities were needed in Mason County
Parks (Q-8)
◆ 71% of respondents on the community questionnaire stated the benefits of parks,
recreation and open space was to “provide opportunities to enjoy
nature/outdoors” (Q-6).
◆ When asked by geographic areas “what additional facilities are needed”, the south
indicated preference for basic park features and competitive sport facilities as a
higher need (Q-8).
2012 Community Workshops:
◆ The north-end workshops indicated that there was a need for an environmental
marine-life program e.g. “beach rangers.”
◆ They also noted that a small scale “music and arts events” on the north-end would
be a great addition for the community.
◆ Hunter Parks was noted as serving a valuable need for the north-end citizens that
commute through use of public transit. This park serves as a Mason County Transit
stop with a route that connects riders from Mason County to the Bremerton ferry
and connections to the greater Seattle Metro bus system regionally.
◆ Some of the “dreams” for the north-end residents included the creation of a “zip-
line” park or development of a “water splash park.”
Trends:
◆ The Neighborhood Parks located near residents provide the opportunity to get
outside, be active and play at a park that is within close proximity to their homes.
◆ In some localized areas throughout the County a Neighborhood Park or playground
site are popular as they are relatively inexpensive to build and can serve specific
communities.
◆ However, on a per acres basis, Neighborhood Parks are very expensive to maintain
and provides limited services, especially if they are located within an area that
lacks easy access.
Determination of Need and Demand Standard for Neighborhood Parks:
Mason County has a current LOS that provides neighborhood park benefit to three
communities. The addition of 1.0 acre to the existing inventory of 12.7 acres (13.8 total
acres address the existing need) divided by the 2018 population (65,816) and multiplied by
1,000 then 14 additional acres are needed in six years and two more acres by 2025 (14.4 total
acres) to address the need. For the County, as the population grows, the value of
Neighborhood Parks added along pathways and trail access points or as entrances to natural
open space areas may become a more effective option to providing neighborhood parks. The
Foothills Park is an example of a Neighborhood Park located in an area that provides benefit
to the local neighborhoods. Three additional sites could be added that serve as trail or
natural open space entrance or access sites.
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Chapter 5 Page 40
Recommended Demand Standard:
Neighborhood Parks
Table 5.5
Existing inventory 12.7 acres
Present sites 3 sites
Present demand standard 0.20 acres/1,000 population
Recommended demand standard .20 acres/1,000 population
Proposed acreage 2018 13.8 acres
Additional acreage needed by 2018 1.0 acres (13.8 total acres)
Additional acreage needed by 2025 1.7 acres (14.4 total acres)
Observations Regarding Neighborhood Parks:
◆ Sustaining and relying on General Fund tax supported funding is potentially not
sustainable into the future.
◆ The three Mason County small parks should be maintained through local non-profit
or community support or neighborhood associations.
◆ The Neighborhood Parks are spread all over the County and require costly travel
time for maintenance.
◆ Neighborhood Parks can serve as connection sites for residents using public
transportation through the Mason County Transit system to regional locations.
5.1.B COMMUNITY PARKS:
Mason County Community Parks provide fairly even coverage throughout the County. There
continues to be some gaps, including the western and northern portions of the County which
are currently served with Neighborhood Parks. Community Parks are generally smaller than 20
acres (although Truman Glick Park is 35 acres) and provide a variety of amenities that make
them popular. Historically, many of the types of park features typically requested by the
public are found in a standard community park. These include picnic facilities, passive areas,
sports fields, walking paths,
boat launches, and fishing
opportunities. Community
Parks are generally very
popular, experience moderate
to high use, and are generally
maintenance-friendly. In
Mason County, Community
Parks provide parking,
restrooms, picnicking areas,
play areas, and in a number of
cases, waterfront access and
boat launches.
LATIMER’S LANDING BOAT LAUNCH
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Chapter 5 Page 41
There are twelve community parks consisting of 180.12 acres in the Mason County planning
area. These include:
◆ Coulter Creek
◆ Harvey Rendsland Park
◆ Jacoby/Shorecrest Park
◆ Latimer’s Landing Boat Launch & Park
◆ Mason County Skatepark #1
◆ Mason Lake Park
◆ Menard’s Landing Launch & Day Use Area
◆ Phillips Lake Park
◆ Sunset Bluff Park
◆ Truman Glick Park
◆ Union Boat Ramp
◆ Walker Park
Service Area:
The Community Park
service area is
recommended at between
1-3 mile radius. The GIS
service area mapping
depicts the County service
area of 5-miles for
Community Parks. The GIS
map shows that the
southern central part of
the County is currently not
being served by
County/Community Park
function, but this area
also includes the Shelton
Metropolitan District with local park
service areas.
Mason County has a combined total of some 350 miles of shoreline and in excess of 100
freshwater lakes. While blessed with an abundance of land that fronts both fresh and
saltwater, public access to this shoreline is limited due to physical constraints and private
property restrictions.
Because survey results identified public access to shorelines and water as a priority,
strategies to increase this access should be pursued. Those strategies may include:
◆ The purchase of waterfront properties
◆ The purchase of easements or licenses
◆ The conversion of road ends with limited park development that provide water
access from public rights-of-way road ends to park sites
◆ Acquisition through transfer or exchange of properties
◆ Acceptance of donations
◆ Creation of partnerships with non-profit organizations to acquire property and
facilitate shoreline and water access
◆ Acquisition of access as a condition of development approval
WALKER PARK
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Chapter 5 Page 42
Public Input/Park Trends:
2012 Mason County Community Questionnaire results/survey input:
◆ Respondents in the community questionnaire when asked an assortment of
additional facilities that should be “added” ranked the need for a spray park for
children as their second choice out of a total choice of four options (30%) (Q-9).
◆ 28% of the respondents, which was tied for the 2nd, 3rd and 4th choices, indicated
that they think that the benefits of parks, recreation and open space are most
important to improve health and wellness.
◆ Opportunities to enjoy nature/outdoors and improving health and wellness were
more popular in the south when asked why parks, recreation and open space
were important to them.
◆ Additionally open-ended responses could be added and the frequent responses that
were listed included “picnic, outdoor, access, range, sports, bike, soccer” as
types of special facilities they suggest. (Q-9 other)
◆ The highest interest in use of water access sites reflects what was also stated in the
2006 as of public importance (Q-10) with 41% listing “beach”, 34% listing “water
to cool off” and “boat ramp” as the top three water access needs.
2012 Community Workshops:
◆ The north end community workshop stressed the need for a skateboarding facility.
◆ Citizens attending the community workshop in Shelton indicated there was a high
priority of those in attendance that there is the need for a “Shorecrest Boat
Ramp/Jacoby Park and they stated that their vision was to have a Jacoby Park
Dock with site improvements.
Trends:
◆ Kansas State University researcher Andrew Kaczynski’s 2010 research shows children
living within a half-mile of a park or playground were five times more likely to
be a healthy weight, rather than overweight, as compared to children who didn’t
have a park with a playground nearby.
◆ Community Parks provide a wider range of opportunities for activities and serve a
larger multi-service area in many communities.
◆ It is known that youth need to have greater opportunities to experience the outdoors
and research has shown that kids are spending less time outdoors than they did
20-years ago.
◆ The Centers for Disease Control recommends that children and adolescents
participate in at least 60 minutes of moderate intensity physical activity most
days of the week.
Determination of Need and Demand Standard for Community Parks:
Based on the demand standard of one Community Park within a 5-10 mile radius of most
residents, up to four additional park sites would be recommended for acquisition in Mason
County. The average size of a community park is approximately 15-17 acres, which equates to
a need of 5.3 additional acres by 2018 and 35.7 additional acres by 2025.
As the following table indicates, as the population grows the County needs approximately 70-
100 acres of additional community park property to meet the geographic and population need
into the future. The addition of 5.3 acres to the existing inventory of 180.12 acres (185.4
acres by 2018) divided by the 2018 population (65,816) and multiplied by 1,000, gives a
recommended demand standard of 3.0 acres per 1,000 people.
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Chapter 5 Page 43
Recommended Demand Standard
Community Parks
Table 5.6
Existing inventory 180.12 acres
Present sites 12 sites
Present demand standard 3.5 acres/1,000 population
Recommended demand standard 3.0 acres/1,000 population
Proposed 2018 inventory 185.4 acres
Additional acreage needed by 2018 5.3 acres (Total 185.4 acres)
Additional acreage needed by 2025 35.7 acres (Total 216 acres)
Observations Regarding Community Parks:
Identifying the need for four additional Community Parks is one benefit resulting from
planning analysis, community input, and survey results. Other benefits include:
◆ Filling gaps in existing levels of service.
◆ Planning for park acquisition or development that provides water access or
swimming.
◆ Designing areas for new Community Parks that emphasize active use, fields, sports
courts, picnicking, and open grass fields.
◆ Planning for multi-use paths and trails, and other fitness-related facilities.
◆ Developing master site plans for selected Community Parks.
Geographically there is the need for a community park in the southwest area of the County,
preferably with freshwater access. One park would be sufficient in the southwest area of the
County due to its population density, even though the five-ten-mile radius analysis could
support two sites in that area. No County parks are located in the general area of Star Lake,
Lost Lake, Lake Harvey, or Lake Nahwatzel and Cloquallum Road where another park could be
located.
Future park locations to address need could include partnering with Green Diamond Resources
to acquire property in the area of Lake Nahwatzel and working with Washington State Parks
to Acquire property that the Parks and Recreation Commission may decide is surplus or
donate Lake Isabella.
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Chapter 5 Page 44
5.1.C REGIONAL PARKS:
Regional Parks provide outdoor recreation facilities with regional significance. They are
generally over 200+ acres and can serve several communities with natural habitat sites and
outdoor recreation opportunities. Facilities at regional parks can include recreation sport
facilities, boating, camping, water access and trail use.
Mason County has three regional parks totaling 151.87 acres within the planning area. These
include:
◆ Mason County Recreation Area
◆ Oakland Bay County Park
◆ Sandhill County Park
The Mason County Recreation Area (MCRA) has seven baseball-softball fields used for multiple
youth and adult ball leagues. Shelton High School uses these fields and over the season
various tournaments are scheduled throughout the summer. In 2012, with matching grant
funds, fields #2 and #3 were converted to synthetic infields that dramatically improved field
playability, reduced maintenance costs, reduce rainouts and also saved water. Another
matching grant for fields #6 and #7 is currently submitted for matching grant funds for infield
renovation to convert these fields to turf.
At Sandhill Park, in 2006 and 2008 fields #4-7 and #3 were renovated to bring them up to
standard play and triple the play for t-ball through majors. The improved fields now extend
seasonal play. As a first priority, this plan recommends renovating existing fields over
development of new. The current 2012 matching grant was submitted to the RCO for
improvements to fields #1 and #2 to replace infields, installation of new outfield irrigation
and turf, with new and improved backstops, dugouts and ADA access.
The Oakland Bay Regional Park is 81.87 acres and was purchased in 2005 in cooperation with
the Capital Land Trust. Through matching RCO grants, the park has been developed with
passive recreation, wildlife viewing areas, environmental education and interpretation and
recreational trails. The access road improvements provide an improved park entry road with a
staging area, bus turnaround and sanitary facilities. Oakland Bay is listed on the Washington
Water Trails Association points of interest for water access.
OAKLAND BAY COUNTY PARK
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Chapter 5 Page 45
Oakland Bay Park has been a focal point for volunteer partnerships for restoration and site
improvements from the Mason County 4-H, the Shelton and Pioneer School Districts, the
Squaxin Tribe, the Cascade Land Conservancy, Audubon Society and the South Puget Sound
Salmon Enhancement group. The historic homestead has an old home built in the 1890’s. In
2012, this site was listed on the Washington Heritage of Registered Historic Places. A
Conservation Easement with the Capital Land Trust limits further development in the park.
The conservation easement defines buffer zones along Oakland Bay and Malaney Creek to
facilitate environmental protection of the park.
Another regionally significant private-nonprofit site is the South Mason Soccer Park which was
built and maintained by the South Mason Youth Soccer Club. It is 10.4 acres with six soccer
fields. There is a mod-field area for small side games. SMSP is not included in the County LOS
calculations but is referenced as a significant regional facility to meet the demand and need
for recreational soccer use. (Section 5.2.A). The North Mason area is also in need of
additional soccer facilities. Currently soccer is played using modified-fields on North Mason
school facilities.
Service Area:
Regional parks provide a variety of recreation amenities and are located within a fifteen mile
radius or within one hour driving time to most residence. Regional parks attract citizens and
visitors from a regional service area. In Mason County, the service area for regional parks has
been established as a 15-mile radius around the park site and, in many cases, beyond.
Public Input/Park Trends:
2012 Mason County Community Questionnaire results/survey input:
◆ Over 70% of the respondents indicated that providing opportunities to enjoy nature
and the outdoors was among their top priorities.
◆ The number of respondents under 25 years of age is impressive for a park and
recreation questionnaire, as this group is very difficult to reach (Q-2). This age
group reflects current involvement in sports listed on Q-16 indicating annual
magnitude of participation at 5.97 for baseball and 3.83 for softball. They also
ranked these sports mid-range (12 & 18 out of 29 options) in current
participation.
◆ Protecting the natural environment and historic and cultural sites appear to be more
important to respondents from the north end (33% vs. 23%) of Mason County when
asked what the “most important benefits” of parks are to them are.
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Chapter 5 Page 46
2012 Community Workshops:
◆ There was a high degree of interest at all the community workshops to see the
potential creation of a “community pool/aquatic center (indoor and outdoor), or
a “water splash park” or “swim opportunities e.g. like waterpark in Renton,” with
an innovative suggestion to work with the Squaxin Tribe for a water
park/partnership option.” They also commented on beach swimming with a
suggestion to create a “Lake Nahwatzel swim hole” (other comments included the
Simpson Mason Lake site and swimming at Lake Isabella).
◆ All the citizens attending the three community workshops stressed the need for
indoor facilities. They pointed out the need for a facility that provided recreation
opportunities that include “boxing/MMA Gym/music studios” or “gym for
gymnastics” as well as options for “more active athletics-community gym”,
“recreation program for youth”. They quantified these needs with identified
changes over the past planning period which included “Young adults-where are
they in recreation?) or there is an increased need for “more recreation for kids”
as there are “more girls in sports” and that “Mason County is one of the least
healthy counties in Washington state, ranking 35th out of 39 counties”
◆ Youth indicated that there is a priority need for a shooting range, and a
walled/rugged terrain exercise/par-course.
◆ The north-end community workshop pointed out the need for additional soccer and
football fields; possibly located at Sandhill.
◆ It was stated that as a dream, citizen in the north county would like to see more
partnerships for field restoration with the park department and the school
districts. Suggestions included “improved drainage on school sports fields (HS and
MS)”
◆ The citizens attending the workshop in Shelton pointed out the need for a “new”
Fairground/Event Center.
◆ They also envisioned the potential of creating “RV Parks” at regional facilities.
Trends:
◆ As population density increases, Community Parks will serve residents with a variety
of functions, which include organized active recreation, spectator events and
passive recreational opportunities.
◆ Counties are primary providers of County/Community and Regional Parks which are
more efficient to maintain on a per-acre basis than the smaller Neighborhood
Parks.
◆ Increased cost for vehicle travel and long auto-trips will create a demand for local
Regional Park opportunities that provide less travel and localized access to
regional facilities and trails.
Determination of Need and Demand Standard for Regional Parks:
Public input revealed existing and future needs by respondents. These include trails, paths,
water access, swimming areas, sports fields and even a shooting range. It was indentified in
2006 that additional recreational lands would be needed to meet the future needs and it
estimated that 208 additional acres would be needed by 2013. The regional parkland
inventory today is below the former acreage recommendation of 3.5 acres per 1,000
population (LOS 3.5/1,000). To meet this identified need, the County could acquire property
suitable for the development of a regional park by purchasing it, or by transferring from other
government agency, or by partnering with local private interests.
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Chapter 5 Page 47
As most of the waterfront areas, whether saltwater or freshwater, are already developed,
finding affordable and suitable land for a Regional Park may prove to be challenging. One
possible option would be to begin discussions with Washington State Parks regarding selected
undeveloped state parks in Mason County or current existing parks such as Schafer State Park
or Lake Isabella.
By 2018, a total of 229 acres of regional park sites will be needed in Mason County,
representing an addition of 77 acres to the current inventory. This additional parkland could
provide a needed regional park site inclusive of the amenities desired by County residents.
The park would serve the entire County and would enhance recreation opportunities for
County residents and visitors. By 2025 with population growth and geographic needs
throughout the County 250 total acres of regional parkland will be needed.
Recommended Demand:
Regional Parks
Table 5.7
Present inventory 151.87 acres
Present sites 3 sites
Present ratio 2.5 acres /1,000 population
Recommended Demand Standard 3.5 acres /1,000 population
Proposed 2018 inventory 229 acres
Additional acreage needed by 2018 77 need /229 Total acres
Additional acreage needed by 2025 98 need /250 Total acres
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Chapter 5 Page 48
5.1.D NATURAL OPEN SPACE:
Mason County recognizes that natural areas and open space are a vital component of the
health and well-being of the County and provide natural resources for habitat protection.
Preserving and protecting these properties is essential to retaining the abundance of
recreational opportunities in the region. Mason County desires to work with interested
organizations to achieve this goal. The County can also partner with non-profit organizations
such as the Trust for Public Land, the Conservation District and Capital Land Trust to retain
natural areas and open space.
Currently, Mason County owns and manages four sites as Natural Open Space. These sites
include
◆ Decker Creek
◆ Foothills Park
◆ Harstine Island Park
◆ Watson Wildwood Park
Mason County, which is a rural area, is fortunate to have a great deal of natural areas/open
space. Currently, in addition to inventory owned by the County, there is a significant amount
of natural areas and open space owned by Washington State Parks, Department of Natural
Resources (Tahuya State Forest), the National Park Service (Olympic National Park) and the
US Department of Agriculture (Olympic National Forest). Green Diamond Resources and the
Manke Company are owners of private natural areas, much of which are managed for timber
resources. The Theler Wetlands and associated Salmon Center near Belfair are also a very
popular destination of statewide significance.
Washington State Parks has several tracts of land that provide significant open space,
including Harstine Island (310 acres), Hope Island (106 acres), and Lake Isabella (193 acres),
and are currently studying the long-range plans and use for some of their parks/natural areas.
Service Area:
The NRPA guidelines do not
specifically define the service area
for Natural Open Space parks. These
sites provide opportunities to
reserve and protect natural area
that have unique natural features,
historical significance and/or
provide habitat areas that need to
have protection and preservation
with the need for minimal
improvements. Natural Open Space
parks provide benefit and value to
the entire County and active
recreational use is minimized and
secondary to the protection and
preservation of the natural features.
Trails, wildlife viewing and
educational learning are primary
recreational opportunities in
natural open space parks.
WATSON WILDWOOD VIEW PARK
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Chapter 5 Page 49
Public Input and Trends:
2012 Mason County Community Questionnaire results/survey input:
◆ 25% of the respondents listed the benefits of parks, recreation and open space was
to “protect our natural environment” (Q-6) and looking at this question
geographically northern Mason County and the southern areas of the County
reflected nearly the same priorities for protections (33% north / 23% south).
◆ 73% of all respondents in both the north and the south indicated that they felt that
the benefits of parks, recreation and open space (Q-6) were to “provide
opportunities to enjoy nature/outdoors.”
◆ When ask what additional park and recreation facilities were needed in Mason
County (Q-8) the respondents’ listed additional natural areas lowest (26%)
2012 Community Workshops:
◆ The community workshop attendees pointed out that the County, as a
“conservation interest, purchase the Bay Shore Golf Course as a natural open
space park.”
Trends:
◆ Research continues to confirm that well tended natural resources attract
businesses.
◆ Using parks, greenways and trails to connect to each other and to natural,
recreational and heritage assets are discovering new economic development
and revitalization opportunities.11
◆ Key to the creation and implementation of a plan is the identification of natural
spaces for trails and to list trail linkages throughout the County.
◆ Regulatory laws regarding natural open space areas and habitat protection are
guided by: the National Environmental Policy Act, the Endangered Species Act,
the Clean Water Act, the Federal Land Policy and Management Act, the
National Forest Management Act, and the Northwest Forest Plan. While there
are additional regulatory laws, these provide some idea of the regulatory
climate.
◆ Partnerships with organizations such as the Capital Land Trust, the Trust for Public
Lands and the Conservation District will continue to be very important for
Mason County to acquire and preserve natural open space in the future.
Determination of Demand Standards for Natural Areas /Open Space.
Mason County is expected to grow in the next twelve years so it is important to preserve the
rural character of the County to the greatest degree possible. The County currently owns
612.9 acres of natural areas and open space, which equates to a current demand standard of
10 acres per 1,000 population.
It is recommended that the County acquire up to 45 acres of natural areas and open space
land through partnerships or property transfers by the year 2018. 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. With the addition of 45 acres, a demand standard of 10 acres per
1,000 population is established based on a potential of 658 acres of natural areas/open space
and a total of 720 by 2025.
11 Using Conservation to Fuel Sustainable Communities and 21st Century Economies/2008 NRPA Congress: Secretary
Michael DiBerardinis, PA. Department of Conservation and Natural Resources.
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Chapter 5 Page 50
Recommended Demand Standard:
Natural Open Space
Table 5.8
Present inventory 612.9 acres
Present demand standard 10 acres /1,000 population
Recommended demand standard 10 acres /1,000 population
Proposed 2018 inventory 658 acres
Additional acreage needed by 2018 45 acres (658Total acres)
Additional acreage needed by 2025 & total acreage 107 acres (720 Total acres)
Observations regarding Natural Areas and Open Space.
◆ Mason County’s inventory of natural areas and open space should continue to
increase over the next six years to meet the County’s needs.
◆ It is recommended that the County continue to work to procure natural areas and
open space to preserve environmentally sensitive areas (e.g. hillsides, riparian
areas, common hiking and access areas with trails, waterfront property) to retain
its rural character.
◆ Collaboration with adjoining private enterprise, public agencies and private non-
profit conservation trusts will be instrumental to maintaining and increasing
natural area, open space, wildlife habitats and corridor connections to state and
federal lands in Mason County.
◆ The County should also pursue state and federal matching grants in partnership with
public and private parties to preserve and secure natural areas and open spaces.
◆ Approve Conservation Futures property tax levy to provide a reliable and predictable
source of funds to help acquire interests in open space, habitat areas, wetlands,
farm, agricultural and timberlands for conservation. A portion of the tax levy can
be dedicated to the cost of maintaining and operating the properties.
5.2 RECREATION FACILITIES:
On the following pages, specific needs for recreation facilities are presented. The assessed need
reflects existing inventory, public input and priority interest from national or state trends.
The categories of recreation facilities include:
5.2.A: Sports Fields
5.2.B: Trails
5.2.C: Children’s Play Areas
5.2.D: Other recreation facilities:
5.2.D-1: Shooting Sports
5.2.D-2: Boat Ramps & Docks
5.2.D-3: Group Picnic Areas
5.2.D-4: Basketball Court/Outdoor Pad
Establishing the recreation facility needs was determined through several analytical
approaches, including public input through the questionnaire survey, comments received at
community workshops and input of the Parks and Trails Advisory Board.
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Chapter 5 Page 51
5.2.A SPORTS FIELDS:
Sports fields with competitive play generally require more staff time and a higher level of
maintenance than other facilities, especially during the playing season. The placement of
synthetic turf on the infields at MCRA has diminished maintenance costs and increased
playability of the fields during wet weather conditions. The baseball fields are used for play
ranging from Little League Baseball (60-ft. bases) to full size baseball fields (90-ft. bases). If a
field was not sufficient for
organized practice or game
play, the field was not included
in the current inventory.
Softball fields include adult
softball fields and fields used
for competitive girls’ fastpitch
or softball leagues.
Mason County does not have
soccer fields but works
cooperatively with local schools
districts and the private non-
profit soccer association in the
provision of soccer play
throughout the County.
The following table lists the
inventory of sports fields for
Mason County, the City of
Shelton, area school districts
and private nonprofits:
Table 5.9
Mason County Shelton/Schools/Private
Existing Inventory Sites Sites
Baseball fields 2 2
Softball/Baseball 12 7
Soccer Fields 0 1512
Baseball fields 2/60,000 4/60,000
Softball/Baseball 12/5000 19/60,000
Soccer Fields 15/60,000
LOS Guidelines NRPA
Baseball fields 1/5,000
Softball/Baseball 1/5000
Soccer Fields 1/10,000
12 Shelton and North Mason High Schools, Pioneer and Hawkins Middle Schools and Shelton Youth Soccer Club
Association.
MASON COUNTY RECREATION AREA (MCRA)
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Chapter 5 Page 52
Service Area:
The recommended NRPA service area guidelines for sports fields is within one-mile radius for
residents around the County, school and private sports fields.
Public Input/Trends:
2012 Mason County Community Questionnaire results/survey input:
◆ When asked (Q-15) to provide insight into how the County can improve the system or
specific facilities, many ideas were offered with 45% of the respondents offering
suggestions frequently mentioned with significance include “field” along with
“kids/children”
◆ When asked (Q-16 & 17) what recreational activity are you involved in or what would
you desire to do, baseball, softball and soccer ranked in the mid-range levels.
◆ Respondents were asked to indicated a dollar amount to allocate to various spending
categories (Q-18) and the largest average allocations were for improvements to
existing parks and playgrounds while the lowest allocation was to construct new
athletic facilities (i.e. fields, courts etc.). This response is reflective of other
communities during this current economic crisis. The citizens seem to want to
take care of what they have rather than to invest in new facilities at this time.
2012 Community Workshops:
◆ The student workshop pointed out the need for additional “all-weather fields.”
◆ The north-end citizens stated that there needs to be a partnership between the
County and school district for “field restoration” the “refurbishment of the lower
field at Hawkins Middle School” and “improved drainage on school sports fields.”
There was group support for a priority of need for additional “soccer and football
fields” with a suggestion that this could happen at Sandhill Park.
Trends:
◆ Team and individual sports are popular at the statewide level as reflected in the
2008 RCO SCORP.
◆ New sections of the 2011 Sports Goods Manufacturers Association (SGMA) report
demonstrates that children participating in active lifestyles outside of a team are
more likely to end up participating in Team Sports at some point in their life as
there is a correlation to general physical fitness and an enjoyment of any type of
play centered around physical motion/activity, and part is a result of exposure to
a diverse mix of activities.
◆ By being physically active on a regular basis, playing sports such as soccer, youth
may be able to avoid or delay health problems associated with obesity and
related conditions.
◆ According to the Sports Goods Manufacturers Association (SGMA), the 2010 US Trends
in Team Sports Report indicated that after two years of negative participation
growth for most of the mainstream Team Sports, this past year they saw a
turnaround in participation for sports like tackle football, soccer, basketball and
baseball. While working from a small base in some cases, niche sports like
lacrosse, rugby, track and field and disc golf are seeing double digit increases in
participation.
◆ SGMA also states that younger teens are a main driver for some of the double digit
participation increases as they are gravitating to organized sports programs which
will bode well for many of the local recreational oriented programs that are
established throughout the country. As they state, “Recreation programs need to
turn part of their attention to these early teens, to bring them back to Team
Sports in some cases or keep them playing after their elementary school years.”
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Chapter 5 Page 53
Demand Standard for Sports Fields:
The demand standard applicable to this plan requires that a team should have sufficient field
space to play games and practices
each week. Based on the current
inventory, sports fields appear to be
adequate but this will not be
sustained into the future. This is
especially true since the recent
placement of all-weather synthetic
turf at two of the MCRA fields and
renovations at Sandhill County Park.
These renovations provide consistent
and increased play on the fields.
Since acquiring land to develop new
fields is extremely expensive and
adds to an already heavy parks
maintenance schedule. The County
should continue to secure matching
grant funds for renovation and additional all-weather playing surfaces to the sports fields at
both MCRA and Sandhill to increase games and play at both sites. Future field lighting on
selected fields will also increase available playing time and accommodate future demands.
To improve the County’s field inventory in the future, partnerships could be formed with local
school districts, community groups and non-profit organizations to improve fields that are
currently below game or practice standards.
To stay current with expected population increases in the County, two additional fields will
be needed by 2018 or expanded use with all-weather turf or field lighting improvements
should be implemented as recommended. Options for increased sports field inventory may be
address if the City of Shelton, Shelton Hills Residential development comes to fruition as the
site will provide 375 acres of public recreation and open space and a future sports park.
With regard to Soccer Fields, in Mason County, the southern soccer fields are owned by the
South Mason County Youth Soccer Club and are not part of the inventory under Mason County
Parks. The non-profit Club has six fields. The NRPA standard is one field for 10,000
population. Based on the current population there is a need for six soccer fields County-wide.
On a geographic basis the six fields in the southern part of Mason County meets the current
need.
When the population grows, by 2018 there will be a need for 14 fields and by 2025 there will
be a need for 16 fields. There are currently 91 teams (nearly 950 players) playing 458 games
(2 games average per week) for three seasons each year. The need for soccer fields in north
Mason County still remains a need when meeting the demand geographically. The additional
fields needed by 2025 could be provided in the North Mason area to address the future
demand as well as the fields needed in the Shelton area. There is also a very active Hispanic
adult regional league in Mason County.
SANDHILL COUNTY PARK BALLFIELDS
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Chapter 5 Page 54
Recommended Demand Standard
Sports Fields
Table 5.10
Present inventory 14 fields
Present ratio 1 field /2,306 population
Recommended demand standard 1 field /2,306 population
Proposed 2018 inventory 14 fields*
Additional fields needed by 2018 2 fields*
* = Add two fields or renovate existing fields with lighting or synthetic turf to increase
seasonal play.
Observations:
◆ Youth leagues are continuing to grow, thus increasing demand for practice space and
fields suitable for games.
◆ Youth leagues are struggling throughout the County with limited resources and
growing demand.
◆ Local schools may have existing fields that could be improved to an acceptable
standard or land that could be developed for new fields.
◆ Based on available information, there will be more demand as the County continues
to grow.
◆ One option is investigating the installation of sports field lighting on existing fields to
increase use, especially in the fall season.
◆ The Youth Soccer Association currently provides the soccer needs for the county. If
the Association discontinues providing soccer, the demand and need will have to
be addressed by Mason County Parks or a future not for profit sports association.
5.2.A TRAILS:
When the 1996 Mason Park Plan was updated the level of service or need standard was not
provided or calculated for pathways or trails. The Mason County Parks and Trails Advisory
Board worked with the Department of Community Development and completed the Mason
County Master Trails Plan, A Framework for Countywide Trail Development. Copies of the
trails plan are available on the Mason County Web Site (www.co.mason.wa.us)
http://www.co.mason.wa.us)/ .
The 2007 adopted plan developed policies and general guidelines relating to trails and address
issues with goals that identified actual trails for development with recommended potential
trail routes, corridors, and on-ground trail standards. There are various types of trails
available for public use. These include significant Regional Trails, Multiple-Use Trails, Local
Trails, Bike Routes and Water Trails, all of which are available at some level of use or
development throughout Mason County.
Significant Regional Trails in Mason County include the Department of Natural Resources
Tahuya State Forest Trails, the Theler Wetlands Trail in Belfair, the Port of Hoodsport (former
State Park) Trails, and Olympic National Forest and Park trailheads access points.
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Chapter 5 Page 55
Multiple-Use Regional Trails are generally non-motorized and serve bicyclists, walkers,
joggers, skaters, equestrians, and even cross country skiers and snowshoers depending on the
trail surfacing. In the case of Mason County, possible trail connections to communities, parks,
points of interest, neighboring counties, the Olympic National Forest, and Olympic National
Park should be investigated. Listed below are suggested multi-use regional trails that were
included as options for future trails in the Community Questionnaire (Q-13):
◆ Shelton to Belfair Trail
◆ Shelton to MCRA Park Trail
◆ North Bay Trail – Allyn to tip of
Case Inlet
◆ Mason Lake Park to Twanoh State
Park
◆ Kennedy Creek Salmon Trail
Extension
◆ Camp Govey Trail
◆ Menard’s Landing Launch & Day Use
Area to Harvey Rendsland Park
Trail
Currently, the County has a very small
inventory of local trails. Local Trails are
categorized as trails that are developed
primarily within County park properties or do
not have any geographic connections that are common with Regional Trails. Local trails
generally are single or double track trails with dirt, gravel, or chipped wood surface. Trail use
depends on the site, but would primarily be non-motorized. The current inventories of local
trails are listed below with a listing of opportunities for potential development of local trails
in the following parks and County property:
Existing:
◆ Truman Glick Park (1-mile)
◆ Oakland Bay Park (1.5-miles)
◆ Coulter Creek (3/4 mile)
Potential Development:
◆ Foothills Park (create connection to State Parks Hoodsport Trail)
◆ Harvey Rendsland Park
◆ Sunset Bluff
◆ Watson Wildwood Park
◆ Mason Lake Park
Favorite Bicycle Routes to ride in Mason County include the Harstine Island Loop (9.4 miles),
the Mason Lake Loop (24 miles), and the Skokomish Valley Road (11 miles), the Kamilche-
Bloomfield-Old Olympic Highway Loop (12 miles) and the Grapeview Loop Road (7.8 miles)
OAKLAND BAY PARK
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Chapter 5 Page 56
Water Trails are becoming increasingly popular and access to and from the water is critical to
their development. You can put your canoe or kayak in a various Mason County Parks along
the Washington Water Trails route. Access points available are at Walker Park,
Jacoby/Shorecrest, Oakland
Bay Park, Union Boat Launch,
Latimer’s Landing, Allyn
Waterfront and Menard’s
Landing Launch & Day Use
Area to name a few. Mason
County has developed policies
for various parks that allow
water trail users and at some
sites, the option of camping
overnight with prior approval
from the Parks, Trails, and
Facilities Department. The
County should work
cooperatively with
organizations like the
Washington Water Trails
Association13 to develop
additional safe water access
points along Mason County
shorelines for non-motorized watercraft.
In terms of maintenance, trails do not require the intensive maintenance that sports
complexes and active recreation sites require. There is still maintenance required, therefore,
forming partnerships with other governments, organizations, and non-profit groups helps
defer maintenance and development costs.
Service Area: Regional Trails and Multiple-Use Trails have the same service area as that of
Regional Parks (15 miles radius). They serve the entire County and also draw users from
outside of the County. Following the demand standards established for Community Parks,
local trails should be located within a 5-mile service area, but also draw users from the entire
of the County.
Public Input and Trends:
2012 Mason County Community Questionnaire results/survey input:
◆ Trails were the most needed facility indicated across the County. (Q-8) This reflects
the greater U.S. as trails are the most universally desired recreation facility.
◆The response of 54% indicating that trails (for cycling, walking, hiking) are the most
important additional park and recreation facilities needed, reflects similar
responses from the citizens in 2006.
◆When asked to write additional response to Q9 “facilities to be added to the park
system” the most responses received were with regard to “trails.”
◆Nearly all respondents (93%) Q-11 indicated the reason to develop more trails was for
exercise, recreation and to experience nature.
13 Washington State’s Cascadia Marine Trail is one of the premier water trails for non-motorized boaters in the United
States. The water trail 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 over 55 campsites to visit.
People can boat to the campsites from many public and private launch sites and shoreline trailheads.
SUNSET BLUFF
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Chapter 5 Page 57
◆Q-12 asked for more specificity about the type of trails. Paved trails and nature trails
are the top two types of trails needed. In looking at the question geographically,
long trails were more popular in the north (28% to 20%) and exercise trails were
more popular in the south (24% to 12%).
◆When asked Q-13 what trail was most important to them, across all respondents, the
Shelton to Belfair Trail and the Shelton to MCRA Park trails were the most popular
planned or proposed trail. When looking geographically to this question,
connecting Shelton and Belfair were equally important to both the north and the
south. With regard to “other’ trail choices, northern residents were most
interested in the North Bay Trail.
2012 Community Workshops:
◆ The citizen at the community workshop in Shelton stated the need for “safe routes
from home to schools and/or recreation centers and parks.”
◆ They also pointed out the need for a “partnership with WDOT for walking in Belfair
(unsafe shoulder) along Highway 3.
◆ Their vision included a “Portage Trail-Hood Canal to Case Inlet waterway” and
support for a “Shelton to Belfair Trail.”
◆ The north-end workshops pointed out that there needs to be more partnerships
formed with the Boy Scouts and Girls Scouts for involvement in parks and trail
development.
◆ Citizens expressed the need for multi-use trails (“trails for various users”) or “bike
trails.”
Trends:
◆ Trails Lead to a "Fit" Community: With
the emphasis on health and fitness
in today's society, trails are
becoming just as important as
streets and sidewalks in our
communities.14
◆ There is an interest in developing trails
in existing County parks, county-
owned property, and on privately-
owned lands.
◆ The community questionnaire stressed
that it is a “priority to unify the
County with a path” (Q-13).
Determination of Demand Standard for Regional Trails: Mason County currently does not
have demand standards for multi-use Regional Trails as these types of trails have not yet been
developed. A demand standard of 0.47 miles per 1,000 population is recommended in this
plan. This translates to a total of 29 miles of trail that would be needed to meet the
anticipated population demand in 2018 and beyond. This figure is based on a projected
population of 65,816. This recommended demand standard was determined by averaging the
standards of Skagit and Jefferson Counties for Regional Trails and the anticipated number of
miles to establish an adequate Regional Trail System in Mason County. Applying this standard
to the current population of 60,699 indicates the County has a current deficiency of 28 miles
of Regional Trails and a future need for 29 miles by 2018 and 34miles by 2025.
14 By Randy Martin Trailscape.net Hosted by: American Trails Association
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Chapter 5 Page 58
UNION PARK
Recommended Demand Standard
Regional Trails
Table 5.11
Present inventory 0 miles
Present ratio N/A
Recommended demand standard .47 miles / 1,000 population
Proposed 2018 inventory 29 miles
Total miles needed by 2018 29 miles
Total miles needed by 2025 34 miles
The adopted Mason County Master Trails Plan provides the guidelines and policies to develop
trails in Mason County. The development and implementation of a comprehensive Master
Trails Plan will be vital as growth demands affect the potential level of need for trails. The
Master Plan also serves to provide opportunities for funding partnerships to complete the
trails needed throughout the County.
Observations:
◆ Citizens through the community input stressed a high importance of trail
development primarily for exercise/recreation and to provide the opportunities for
recreation. Therefore, trails are a high priority and the development of and
funding for trails Countywide needs to be continued over the next planning period.
◆ Securing matching grant funds is an opportunity to match local dedicated funds to
provide trail needs.
◆ As described there are a variety of types of trails e.g. natural trails, water trails,
multi-use trails, bicycle trails for off-road and shared use with vehicles. Trail
development has varied costs for development. The natural and soft-surface trails
are less expensive where the fully developed shared use on public roads and
highways cost more to develop using defined highway development standards.
5.2.C CHILDREN’S PLAY AREAS:
Children’s playground equipment is
maintained under the Playground Safety
Standards with guidelines from the American
Society of Testing Materials and the Consumer
Product Safety Commission. Mason County
park maintenance staff is trained and
certified under the National Recreation and
Park Association (NRPA) National Playground
Safety Training Program. Playground
equipment must be inspected regularly for
safety issues, making sure that each
playground meets current safety standards
and meets the requirements of the Americans
with Disability Act (ADA) for access. In Mason
County, the continued priority should be renovating
and or replacing playgrounds at existing play areas to meet current standards. Mason County
Parks currently has playground equipment located at five County park facilities (Table 5.12).
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Chapter 5 Page 59
Service Area:
The service area for children’s play areas is the same as that of a neighborhood park, or ½-
mile to 1-mile radius from local residents.
Public Input and Trends:
◆ The community questionnaire reflected (Q-3) that a large percent of respondents
were families with children. 224 (38%) of respondents indicated at least one
household member under 20. This is almost exactly the number of families with
related children younger than 18 reported in the 2010 Census (38.8%).
◆ Over 70% of respondents indicated that “providing opportunities to enjoy nature”
and the “outdoors” was among their top priorities. (Q-6)
◆ 31% of the responses, when asked what “additional facilities are needed” (Q-8)
indicated that basic park features (play areas, picnic areas, etc) were needed.
◆Just over 30% of respondents indicated that a “water spray park” (Q-9) would be a
good addition to the park system.
2012 Community Workshops:
◆The citizens attending the community workshops pointed out that Mason County was
among the least healthy counties in Washington State. It ranks 37th out of 39
counties.
◆At the North Mason workshop it was noted that the population has increased and
there are more kids in the community. The citizens attending the Shelton
workshop pointed out that with the “sewer system in Belfair, it will bring growth
and more demand for parks.” Citizens also stated that covered sites would address
use when it rains.
Trends:
◆ Low-income families generally have less access to opportunities for physical activity.
At the same time, many low-income rural communities lack access to sidewalks,
parks and recreation facilities; all are possible barriers to leisure time physical
activity.15
◆ “1 of 3 children is obese or overweight before their 5th birthday.” Obesity now
affects 17% of all children and adolescents in the United States-triple the rate from
just one generation ago.16
◆ The Outdoor Industry Association (outdoor product providers) continues to advocate
for communities in which all kids have places to play within walking distance from
their homes.17
Determination of Demand Standard for Children’s Play Areas
The County currently has a demand standard of 0.33 per 1,000 population which reflects the
Recreation and Conservation Office (RCO) recommended standard per population. Using the
current inventory of five play areas and the population of 60,699 residents, the current ratio
would be 1 play area per 12,062 population. Applying the current standard to the current
population indicates the County should have 20 play areas, a current shortfall of 5. Since
Mason County currently owns 23 parks, this standard would appear to be unreasonably high as
not all of the parks have appropriate space for play areas therefore adjustment or
partnerships with local community organizations or school districts could provide for the
retention of the demand need for playgrounds countywide. Listed below is the current
inventory of play areas at Mason County parks:
15 National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion CDC
16 2012 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
17 OIA State of the Industry Report, 2006 / www.outdoorindustry.org
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Chapter 5 Page 60
Mason County Play Areas:
Table 5.12
This plan is recommending a standard of 1 play area per 4,071 people, which is based on the
2018 projected population of 65,816 residents. Additional play areas could be located at
Shorecrest Park, Latimer’s Landing (if expanded), Mason Lake Park and Phillips Lake Park.
Currently Sandhill Elementary has a playground that can serve as a partnership site for this
area of the County. The five playgrounds are located primarily in the southern areas of the
County. There is a need for a children’s play area in the northern portions of the County.
Since 2006 there has been an effort to renovate and replace aged and unsafe playground
equipment throughout the park system which is of critical importance to children’s safety.
Recommended Demand Standard:
Children’s Play Areas
Table 5.13
Present inventory 5
Present ratio 1/12,140 population
Recommended demand standard 1/ 4,071 population
Proposed 2018 inventory 15 play areas
Additional play areas needed by 2025 18 play areas
For safety, children’s play areas need to be designed with areas for toddlers up to five years
old, a site for 6-12 years old, and a play area for those 12 and above as required under
guidelines and recommendations of the National Playground Safety Inspection Guidelines
through NRPA. Standards for Mason County playgrounds should follow the recommendations
set by the Washington Counties Risk Pool. All play areas need to meet the requirements of the
Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
# Areas Type Name and or Owner
1 Playground MCRA – Mason County
1 Playground Walker Park – Mason County
1 Playground Union Park – Mason County
1 Playground Foothills Park – Mason County
1 Playground Truman Glick Park - Mason County
5 Total Play Areas
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Chapter 5 Page 61
5.2.D OTHER RECREATION FACILITIES:
5.2.D-1: SHOOTING SPORTS: Mason County Parks does not have a shooting range within their
system but there are two ranges in Mason County. The Bremerton Trap and Skeet Club is
located north of Belfair across from the Kitsap Airport and the Mason County Sportsmen’s
Association range is located in Shelton at the Business Park. The student community workshop
stressed the need for a “shooting range” and opportunities for “competition in shooting
events/programs.” An outdoor shooting range (Q-18a) in the open ended question was listed
most often as an identified need. In Q-16 & 17 “shooting sports (archery, rifle, pistol)” ranked
6th out of 28 choices of currently involved in and 4th out of 29 of those that respondents
would desire to participate in. In the community questionnaire, shooting sports and hunting
rank higher compared to other communities. Shooting/archery range ranked 1st when asked
(Q-9) what special facilities should be added to the park system (34%). Most recently as a
recreational activity, there has been a wave of interest in archery in the rural states in the
northwest.18 Archery skills is an interest project for Girl Scouts Skill Building and youth camps
and ranges have see a recent up-tick of interest in archery. Study of the feasibility of creating
or partnering to provide increased opportunities for shooting sports should be of focus over
the next planning period. The Recreation and Conservation Office offers grants funds for
development and operation ranges under the Firearms and Archery Range Recreation Program
(FARR).
5.2.D-2: BOAT LAUNCHES: Currently there are four boat launches and six hand-carry boat
launch sites managed throughout Mason County by the County parks system. Based on the
needs assessment, public input and the
Mason County Shoreline Master Plan,
water access continues to be of critical
importance to Mason County. Water
access facilities (boat ramps, piers,
beaches, etc) ranked 2nd in the
community questionnaire (Q-8) as what
respondents thought were the needed
facilities in the Mason County Park
system (38%).The need for water access
will continue to be one of the highest
priorities countywide over the next 15
to 20 years. Nearly 40% of respondents
in the community questionnaire (Q-10)
indicated that they were likely to use
boater access through the use of a
ramp or by way of a hand launch.
The community workshop pointed out the need for an improved County boat launch at Jacoby
Park/Shorecrest Park and in Union. They also stated that access is important as there is an
“increase need for kayaking”. Opportunities to secure and develop access to public
waterfront points for public use for boating, swimming and fishing will remain of vital
importance.
18 The Archery Trade Association CEO Jay McAninch statement: “most recent positive reaction to archery with the
2012 Olympics and the popularity of the “Hunger Games” books and movie." The ATA partners with the Nation
Archery in Schools Program which is in 47 states as PE education.”
SHORECREST/JACOBY BOAT LAUNCH
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Chapter 5 Page 62
5.2.D-3: GROUP PICNIC AREAS: Mason County Parks provides three sites with picnic shelters
and eleven places for the public to picnic with family and friends. Simple picnic shelters
create opportunities for shared-use with pedestrians and bicyclists or serve as a trailhead
point of entrance for hikers and wildlife viewing areas. They can serve a dual purpose as
interpretive centers or a way-point that extends a children’s play area. Group picnic shelters
can provide opportunities for groups to rent a facility for a gathering and can provide a
revenue return that helps off-
set maintenance costs at rural
or larger community or
regional park sites. 31% of the
responses when asked what
additional facilities are needed
in the community
questionnaire (Q-8) indicated
that basic park features (play
areas, picnic areas, etc) were
most needed.
Partnerships with local service
organizations, the Boy Scouts
of America, or specialized
work crews can help fund the
cost of the construction of
additional sites located
throughout the countywide park
system. Looking for future
locations and project sites should be of importance over the next planning period. Suggested
locations for shelters are Harvey Rendsland Jiggs Lake Park, Mason Lake Park and at Sunset
Bluff.
5.2.D-4: BASKETBALL COURT OUTDOOR PAD: Currently Mason County Parks has three
basketball courts within the park system located at various park sites. Basketball courts or
the placement of an outdoor pad are of value for resident that are located within the radius
of need for neighborhood parks (within ½-
mile – 1-mile radius) or community parks
(1-3 mile radius). When asked what
additional facilities were needed (Q-8) 31%
of the responses indicated that basic park
features (play areas, picnic areas, etc)
were needed. The community workshops
pointed out that “youth sports have
decreased because of family needs and 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.
WALKER PARK GROUP PICNIC SHELTER
UNION PARK BASKETBALL COURT
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Chapter 6 Page 63
RECOMMENDATIONS/PRIORITIZATION CHAPTER 6
Introduction:
his Chapter of the Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Park discusses a summary of the
recommendations for parks and facilities for managing and implementation, in order to
accomplish the outcomes, guidelines and standards adopted in the Mason County Plan.
Recommendations are listed in the following categories:
1. Parkland & Natural Open Space
2. Recreation Facilities
3. Administration & Operations and Maintenance
6.1. PARKLAND & NATURAL OPEN SPACE
Overall concept:
The ideal park system is made up of various types of parks and facilities to serve the
community as discussed in Chapter 5: Demand and Needs Analysis. Each type serves a basic
function, but collectively the entire system serves the needs of the County. Knowing the
interconnection, Mason County can develop an efficient and cost effective park system that
meets most of the needs for the citizens. Also by providing design standards for each park
type it helps to easily understand how the park is developed, maintained and used.
Attaining the basic system of parklands provides for neighborhood and community parks with
regional and natural open space park sites. It is achieved by addressing the need of new site
acquisitions and/or expanding and modifying existing parks and facilities.
6.1.A: NEIGHBORHOOD PARKS:
Assessed Need:
Based on the demand and needs analysis in Chapter 5, three additional neighborhood parks
totaling 3-15 acres will be needed by 2018 and a total of 14.4 acres by 2025.
Recommendations:
Map # Neighborhood Parks Acres Action/Comments
[Appendix A Describes Specific Recommendations]
5 Foothills Park 10.00 Renovations/restroom/turf
2 Hunter Park 0.15 Partnership projects
6 Union Park 1.92 Renovation/Relocations
Future Need Acres
Northern UGA 1-5 Allyn Waterfront
North Mason County 1-5 Belfair
Southwest Area 1-5 Star Lake
T
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Chapter 6 Page 64
Develop neighborhood parks in the following geographic areas to meet the future demand at:
◆Allyn area
◆Star Lake area
◆Timberlands area
◆Lake Limerick area
◆Mason Lake
◆Belfair area
◆ Hoodsport
◆ Tahuya Peninsula
◆ Victor area
Implementation Policies:
Site Selection Criteria
Neighborhood parks in Mason County serve a 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, with flat usable areas located central to the neighborhood service
area.
Design & Development Recommendations
Facilities that are appropriate to neighborhood parks include playgrounds, open play
areas, basketball and tennis courts, picnic areas and shelters, trails and trail
connectors.
Summary of Recommendations
◆ Three additional sites could be added that serve as trail or natural open space
entrance or access sites.
◆ Continue to work with public or private landowners to provide land or locations to
meet the future need for three more neighborhood parks by 2018.
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Chapter 6 Page 65
6.1.B: COMMUNITY PARKS:
Assessed Need:
Based on the demand and needs analysis in Chapter 5, four additional Community parks with
an overall need of 5-acres by 2018 and a total of 216 acres by 2025.
Recommendations:
Develop Community parks in underserved areas to meet the future demand:
Map # Community Parks Acres
Action/Comments
[Appendix B Describes Specific
Recommendations]
20 Coulter Creek 55.00 Develop
3 Harvey Rendsland 15.00 Develop
18 Jacoby/Shorecrest 2.82 Renovate/Improve
16 Latimer’s Landing 5.00 Developed
12 Skatepark #1 0.50 New or additional park
8 Mason Lake Park 17.36 Improve with play area
4 Menard’s Landing
Launch & Day Use Area 7.40 Developed Trailhead to Rendsland Jiggs
15 Phillips Lake 0.40 Developed
11 Sunset Bluff 71.00 Develop
10 Truman Glick 35.46 Developed
7 Union Boat Ramp 0.16 Improve
19 Walker Park 5.04 Developed
Future Need
west 9.00 Schafer State Park
southwest 9.00 Lake Isabella
north 9.00 Acquire/water access
southwest 9.00 Acquire/water access
◆The largest deficit is located in the west and southwest section of Mason
County.
◆Securing a possible future park near Star Lake, Lost Lake, Lake Nahwatzel or
Cloquallum Road would address the Community park need.
◆A park that provides swimming access would be most beneficial-addressing
both the acreage deficit and water access needs.
Implementation Policies:
Site Selection Criteria
Geographically there is the need for a community park in the southwest area of the
County, preferably with freshwater access. One park would be sufficient in the
southwest area of the County due to its population density, even though the five-ten-
mile radius analysis could support two sites in that area. (See GIS Map X)
Future park locations to address need could include partnering with Green Diamond
Resources to acquire property on Lake Nahwatzel and working with Washington State
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Chapter 6 Page 66
Parks to acquire property that the Parks and Recreation Commission may decide is
surplus.
Design & Development Recommendations
Facilities that are appropriate to Community parks include development of water
access for boating and swimming. They provide opportunities for facilities such as BMX
tracks, a skatepark, swimming facilities and performing arts venues.
Summary of Recommendations
◆Filling gaps in existing levels of service.
◆Planning for park acquisition or development that provides water access or
swimming.
◆Designing areas for new Community Parks that emphasize active use, fields, sports
courts, picnicking, and open grass fields.
◆Planning for multi-use paths and trails, and other fitness-related facilities.
◆Developing master site plans for selected Community Parks.
6.1.C: REGIONAL PARKS:
Assessed Need:
By 2018, a total of 229 acres of regional park sites will be needed in Mason County,
representing an addition of 77 acres to the current inventory. By 2025 128 additional acres
will be needed to meet the population demand for a total of 250 acres of Regional parkland.
Recommendations:
Develop regional parks in the following geographic areas to meet the future demand at:
◆ Continue to pursue the “potential” option of securing parts of Lake Isabella State
Park. It would be in the best interest of the County to retain this 190-acre park
site under public ownership
◆ Schafer State Park also is an ideal option for expansion of the regional park needs for
Mason County through a partnership or agreement with State Parks.
Implementation Policies:
Site Selection Criteria
There are deficits in Mason County based on a standard that residents reside within
fifteen miles or within one hour driving time to a Regional park facility. The value of
Regional parks is that they serve the entire County and provide opportunities that
enhance recreation opportunities for County residents and visitors.
Facilities that are appropriate to Regional parks include natural historic and cultural
areas, active sports fields and recreation facilities with skatepark, tennis courts, RV
Design & Development Recommendations
camping, regional trail connection, group picnic areas, performing arts and festival activities.
Map # Regional Parks Acres Action/Comments
[Appendix B Describes Specific Recommendations]
13 Mason County Recreation Area 40.00 Field lights/turf infields (site is at maximum
land capacity)
14 Oakland Bay Park 81.87 Developed in 2012
1 Sandhill Park 30.00 Additional 10-15 acres for expansion
Future Need
Southwest 77.00 Passive/active/water access/trails Simpson
Recreation Park/Mason Lake 55 acres
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Chapter 6 Page 67
Summary of Recommendations
◆ To meet this identified need, the County could acquire property suitable for the
development of a regional park by purchasing it, or by transferring from other
government agency, or by partnering with local private interests.
◆ Finding affordable and suitable land for a Regional Park may prove to be challenging.
◆ Possible option would be to begin discussions with public and private landowners
regarding partnerships or acquiring selected undeveloped lands in Mason County.
◆ This additional parkland could provide a needed regional park site inclusive of the
amenities desired by County residents.
◆ The potential addition of 133-400 acres of natural areas during the planning horizon
could come from property transfers, donations, or partnership agreements.
◆ The public input stressed the need to address maintaining existing sites and stressed
the need to address the operation and maintenance costs for any new park land
additions.
6.1.D: NATURAL OPEN SPACE:
Assessed Need:
It is recommended that the County acquire up to 45 acres of natural areas and open space
land through partnerships or property transfers by the year 2018. With the addition of 45
acres, a demand standard of 10 acres per 1,000 population is established based on a potential
of 658 acres of natural areas/open space.
Recommendations:
Develop natural open space meets the future demand:
Natural Open Space Acres Action/Comments
[Appendix A Describes Specific Recommendations]
Decker Creek 500.00 Remain natural without development
Foothills Park 70.00 Undetermined future needs
Harstine Island Park 6.900 Theatre Group
Watson Wildwood 36.00 Passive Development
Future Need
Natural Open Space 45+ Habitat/trails/natural recreation use at Kennedy Creek
with 30-40 acres.
◆State Parks has also taken a close look at Harstine Island State Park (310 acres), so
as an example Mason County could continue to discussion on potential surplus
public lands to meet the natural open space needs of the County.
Implementation Policies:
Site Selection Criteria
Natural Open Space parks provide natural areas and open space which is a vital
component of the health and well-being of the County and provides natural resources
for habitat protection. Sites should be selected that will preserve and protect
properties that retain the abundance of out-of-doors recreational opportunities in the
region.
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Chapter 6 Page 68
Design & Development Recommendations
Selected 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.
Summary of Recommendations
◆ Mason County’s inventory of natural areas and open space should continue to increase
over the next six years to meet the County’s needs.
◆ It is recommended that the County continue to work to procure natural areas and open
space to preserve environmentally sensitive areas (e.g. hillsides, riparian areas,
common hiking and access areas with trails, waterfront property) to retain its rural
character.
◆ Approve Conservation Futures property tax levy to provide a reliable and predictable
source of funds to help acquire interests in open space, habitat areas, wetlands,
farm, agricultural and timberlands for conservation. A portion of the tax levy can be
dedicated to the cost of maintaining and operating the properties.
◆ Collaboration with adjoining private enterprise, public agencies and private non-profit
conservation trusts will be instrumental to maintaining and increasing natural area,
open space, wildlife habitats and corridor connections to state and federal lands in
Mason County.
◆ The County should also pursue state and federal matching grants in partnership with
public and private parties to preserve and secure natural areas and open spaces.
6.2: RECREATION FACILITIES
6.2.A: SPORTS FIELDS: (baseball, softball, soccer etc.):
Assessed Need: Based on the demand and
needs assessment in Chapter 5, two
additional fields will be needed by 2025 or
expanded use with all-weather turf or
lighting improvements should be
implemented as recommended.
Recommendations:
◆Local schools may have existing
fields that could be improved to
an acceptable standard or land
that could be developed for new
fields.
◆One option is investigating the
installation of sports field lighting
on existing fields to increase use,
especially in the spring and fall
seasons.
◆Continue to explore opportunities to
renovation infields with all-weather
turf to expand play and field
lighting to extend games.
Mason County Recreation Area (MCRA)
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Chapter 6 Page 69
FOOTHILLS PARK
6.2.B: TRAILS:
Assessed Need: A demand standard of 0.47 miles per 1,000 population translates to a total
need of 29 miles of trails by 2018 and 34 miles of trails by 2025. Trails were one of the most
desired park and recreation facility priorities identified Countywide in the 2012 Community
Questionnaire survey and public requests at the community workshops.
Recommendations:
◆Implement and develop trails as guided through the adopted Mason County Master
Trails Plan.
◆Mason County will need to acquire property to develop regional and multi-use trails
into the future. This can be done through trail corridor acquisition, partnerships
and other means such as easements.
◆Working in partnership with the County Public Works Department, Port of Shelton
and State Department of Transportation as well as the Mason County Health
Department will be vital and critical to providing opportunities through complete
streets, trails and facilities to make a positive impact on improved health for the
citizens on a County-wide basis.
◆Part of the completed trails plan should include potential cross county courses,
bicycle routes and frontage road routes throughout Mason County. All bicycle
routes should be designated by signage, and be striped as bike lands if the road in
question has the necessary right-of-way width and is free of on street parking.
These bike lane projects should be implemented whenever their respective
roadways are resurfaced.
◆All types of trails are critical recreation facilities that need to be address over the
next planning period and into the future. These include Multiple-Use Regional
Trails, Local Trails, trail links to new large residential development projects (e.g.
Shelton Hills to MCRA),Bicycle Routes and Water Trails.
◆To meet this deficit, selected Park Master Site Plans will need to incorporate trails
into the development of parks.
◆As identified through public input, the Shelton to Belfair Trail needs to be the first
priority trail development for the County.
6.2.C: CHILDREN’S PLAY AREAS:
Assessed Need: Applying the current standard of 0.33 per
1,000 to the current population, the County has a need for
15 play areas which indicates a current shortfall of 5 play
areas County-wide.
Recommendations:
◆There is a need for children’s play areas in the
northern portions of the County.
◆Additional play areas could be located at Shorecrest
Park, Latimer’s Landing, Mason Lake Park, Phillips Lake Park, Sunset Bluff and
Sandhill Park.
◆Continue efforts to retain new and recently replaced playground equipment
throughout the park system as monitoring is of critical importance to children’s
safety.
◆ Design playground with areas for toddlers, 6-12 year olds and for those 12 and
beyond as required under the National Playground Safety Inspection Guidelines.
◆All play areas need to meet the National Playground Safety with annual site
inspection.
◆All play areas need to be in compliance with the American with Disabilities Act
(ADA).
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Chapter 6 Page 70
6.2.D-1: SHOOTING SPORTS:
Assessed Need: Mason County does not have a public shooting range (archery, rifle, and
pistol) in the park system. This recreational sport was identified as a need and ranked #1 in
the community questionnaire when asked “what special facilities should be added.” Public
interest has gown recently with the 2012 Olympics’ and there is a wave of interest in archery
in the northwest.
Recommendations:
◆ Study of the feasibility of creating or partnering to provide increased opportunities
for shooting sports should be of focus over the next planning period. Identifying a
site location will be critically important to the future project.
◆ Matching grant funds are available for the development and operation of shooting
ranges from the Recreation and Conservation Office (RCO) through the Firearm and
Archery Ranges Funds (FARR) program.
6.2.D-2: BOAT LAUNCHES:
Assessed Need: Based on the needs assessment, public input and the Mason County Shoreline
Master Plan, water access continues to be of critical importance to Mason County. Water
access facilities (boat ramps, piers, beaches, etc) ranked 2nd in the community questionnaire
Recommendations:
◆ Opportunities to secure and develop land and access to public waterfront points for
public use for boating, swimming and fishing will remain of vital importance over
the next planning period.
◆ Continue to look for waterfront access points for acquisition or development along all
fresh and saltwater edges.
◆ Research matching grant funding to acquire and develop water access for boating and
recreational activities and sporting needs.
◆ Continue to expand the water trails, working with the public and private partners to
secure additional water access sites.
◆ Secure public road right-of-ways for park access points to the water and shorelines
throughout the County.
6.2.D-3: GROUP PICNIC AREAS:
Assessed Need: 31% of the responses, when asked what additional facilities are needed in the
community questionnaire (Q-8), indicated that basic park features (play areas, picnic areas,
etc) were most needed.
Recommendations:
◆ Looking for future locations and project sites should be of importance over the next
planning period (e.g. Harvey Rendsland, Sunset Bluff and Mason Lake).
◆Partner with local service organizations to help fund the construction.
◆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.
6.2.D-4: BASKETBALL COURT OUTDOOR PAD:
Assessed Need: Basketball courts or outdoor sports pads provide value to resident located
near neighborhood parks (within ½-mile – 1-mile radius) or community parks (1-3 mile radius).
Citizens indicated that when asked what additional facilities were “needed” (Q-8), 31%
indicated that basic park features (play areas, picnic areas, etc) were needed.
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Chapter 6 Page 71
Recommendations:
◆ When the need for additional neighborhood, community or regional parks is
anticipated, designs that include a basketball court or pad should be included as a
recreation facility.
6.3. ADMINISTRATION & OPERATIONS AND MAINTENANCE
ADMINISTRATION / Director
Recommended Work tasks:
◆ Create and facilitate a unified Department whereby all staff is linked through a
central mission.
◆ Empower and lead Department personnel to professional success.
◆ Respond to the needs and concerns of the County issues.
◆ Ensure financial integrity of the Department by encouraging cost savings while
sustaining quality services.
◆ Pursue additional funding sources to meet plan outcomes.
◆ Encourage community support through a positive and responsive vision and increased
awareness of County parks, trails and recreational opportunities.
◆ Encourage staff training and educational opportunities to facilitate professional
development.
◆ Strive for efficiency in the provision of department-wide operations.
ADMINISTRATION / Department Staff
Recommended Work tasks:
◆ Coordinate staff efforts to maintain and enhance parks.
◆ Assist and participate in volunteer programs, stewardship groups or local
organizations for development and enhancement.
◆ Explore opportunities to enhance or generate resources that benefit the functions
and maintenance needs of the Department system.
◆ Research department sustainability through options such as the creation of a county
Metropolitan Park District.
ADMINISTRATION / Park Finance
Recommended Work tasks:
◆ Explore the creation of a Mason County Parks Foundation.
◆ Develop funding partnerships with public and private sources to assist in efforts for
park acquisition, development, programs, and maintenance.
◆ Work with organizations that promote private investment in public park acquisition
and development.
◆ Seek funding for new recreation facilities and improvements to existing facilities
through a variety of fund sources including, but not limited to: donations, user
fees, grants (public and private), capital reserves, REET (real estate excise tax),
special district19, 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.
19 i.e. Metropolitan Park District (MPD)
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Chapter 6 Page 72
OPERATIONS AND MAINTENANCE / Maintenance and Renovation
Recommended Work tasks:
◆ Establish maintenance standards for all parks, trails, and recreation facilities.
◆ Encourage the efficiency of maintenance operations.
◆ Standardize signs, equipment, materials and other amenities where feasible.
◆ Maximize the skills and abilities of Department personnel through training and
resource support.
◆ Reduce replacement costs and extend the usefulness of equipment and recreation
facilities through preventative maintenance.
◆ Consider privatizing services as needed, as feasible for budget savings and increased
efficiency.
OPERATIONS AND MAINTENANCE / Park Use: Security and Safety
Recommended Work tasks:
◆ Design park, trail, and recreational facilities that meet all applicable safety
standards and discourage unwanted activities.
◆ Educate users about acceptable behavior through appropriate signs, regulations, and
public programs.
◆ Consider proper visibility, safety, and effective maintenance in design and
development.
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Chapter 7 Page 73
FUNDING/CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PLAN CHAPTER 7
FUNDING/CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PLAN
PROJECTS & COST ESTIMATES
FUNDING SOURCES
his Chapter of the Comprehensive Plan identifies strategies for funding proposed specific
improvements. It identifies existing funding sources and projects potential revenue for
the next six years. Project priorities were used to select and prioritize projects through the
process of completing the analysis of the park system inventory in Chapter 3 and an assessment
of the park, trail and open space needs in Chapter 5. The cost of meeting those needs far
exceeds the existing financial capabilities. The summary of this planning process is show in the
six-year capital improvement plan identified in Table 7.1. Appendix B contains recommended
capital improvement project information for each park and facility recommended for
improvement.
7.1: PROJECT PRIORITIES:
The project guide criteria used to identify for recommendation with rank and schedule
individual park projects included:
◆ The site’s current level of deferred improvements or safety concerns.
◆ The type of project (see below).
◆ Results of the 2012 survey.
◆ Availability of funding, grants, and cooperative agreements.
◆ Projected or current level of use. (higher use or potential use = higher ranking).
◆ Potential for active
involvement of citizen
groups, non-profit
organizations, and other
agencies.
T
SANDHILL PARK
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Chapter 7 Page 74
The priority by project type is as follows:
1. Improvement to existing developed sites (redevelopment, renovation, and
replacement)
2. ADA projects at all parks
3. Development that meet existing deficits in service or needs identified during
public outreach
4. Development of existing undeveloped sites
5. Acquisition of new sites that serve geographic equity needs
6. Development of new sites that serve or meet geographic equity needs
The 2012 County Community questionnaire survey indicated the following priorities as the
most needed parks and recreation facilities in Mason
County, which are:
1. Trails for cycling, walking, and hiking
2. Trails for exercise, recreation, experience
nature.
3. Water access (beach, place to play, boat
ramp, pier, ramps.)
4. Paved trails for walking, biking etc.
5. Shooting/archery range
6. Water spray park
7. Basic park features (play area, picnic areas
etc.)
8. Competitive sport facilities (fields, courts etc.)
9. Nature Areas
10. Hunting, gardening, dog walking/park
When asked “how would you spend $100.00 on parks?” The top three answers were:
1. Acquisition or development of walking and biking trails and bike routes
2. Improvements/maintenance of existing parks and playgrounds
3. Development of waterfront parks to improve water access.
COULTER CREEK
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Chapter 7 Page 75
The following priorities, which are of equal value per level of priority, are recommended for
capital projects:
◆ HIGH PRIORITY
Continue to acquire and develop waterfront and water access sites (e.g.
Walker Park, Jacoby Park, Union Boat Launch and freshwater lakes)
Plan for and develop a linking countywide trail system (regional connection
and identified trail priorities)
Upgrade County-owned sports fields for extended play and efficient
maintenance
Plan for and develop habitat, conservation and natural open space areas,
sites and access
◆ MEDIUM PRIORITY
Plan for and develop skatepark in Belfair area
Identify sites for playground, group picnic shelters and restroom/concessions
Research and develop County water spray park facility
Research and develop shooting range
Continue to secure and develop community parks
◆ LOW/FUTURE PRIORITY
Expand water access sites at Menard’s Landing Launch & Day Use Area
Secure funding to Latimers Landing Overflow Parking improvement
Develop Watson Wildwood Park Site
Complete expansion of Sandhill park and fields
Acquire 27 additional acres at Oakland Bay Park
LATIMER’S LANDING
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Chapter 7 Page 76
7.2: CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PLAN
The funding strategies for implementing the recommendations outlined in Chapter 6 are
identified in Table 7.1. The proposed project, estimated costs and potential revenue sources
provide the identified sources to fund the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) from 2013 to 2018
and beyond.
Key to funding the CIP is to understand that the total project costs are from a combination of
funding sources which include grants, general fund budgets, real estate excise taxes and /or
even general obligation bonds to list a few. Section 7.3 of this chapter provides funding
options potentially available from a variety of sources that range from federal funding to
local sources.
Over time, it is important to remember that priorities change, new funding sources become
available and unfortunately legislative action can eliminate or shift funding sources. It is also
important to understand that opportunities for 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 Management Act (GMA), the County reviews the CIP on an annual basis and can make
adjustments with the adoption of the annual budget.
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Chapter 7 Page 77
Table 7.1: All project budgets are stated in 2013 dollars
Project 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 Beyond 2018 Funding Options
MCRA turf on infields #6
and #7, backstops, asphalt $600,000 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 WWRP, REET II
MCRA Park Irrigation
(Outfield & Interior) $0 $0 $517,950 $0 $0 $0 $0 YAF, REET II,
Fundraising
MCRA renovate infields on
#1, #4, and #5 $10,000 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 REET II
MCRA new restroom
concession building $0 $0 $0 $180,000 $0 $0 $0 REET II
MCRA lights on fields #2,
#3, Batting Cage Repair $75,000 $0 $300,000 $0 $0 $0 $0 WWRP, YAF, REET II,
Fundraising
MCRA Improvements,
Parking and Master Plan $75,000 $20,000 $8,000 $0 $0 $496,300 $0 YAF, REET II,
Sponsorship
MCRA Spray Park $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $600,000 WWRP, REET II
Truman Glick Park
Improvements $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $183,000 REET II
Foothills Park Site Plan $0 $30,000 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 REET II, Fundraising
Foothills Park Picnic
Shelter, Open Area Field
Improvements, Site
Upgrades, Nature Trail
$0 $0 $0 $493,030 $0 $0 $0 REET II, Fundraising
Menard’s Landing Launch
& Day Use Area Water
Access and Vault Toilet
$0 $0 $0 $0 $100,000 $0 $0 WWRP Water Access,
REET II
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Chapter 7 Page 78
Project 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 Beyond 2018 Funding Options
Union Park Restroom
Renovation $0 $0 $0 $0 $368,940 $0 $0 REET II, Fundraising
Trails Development $50,000 $50,000 $50,000 $50,000 $50,000 $50,000 $50,000 Bond, REET I,
Fundraising
Shelton to Belfair Trail
Planning $50,000 $50,000 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 REET I, Fundraising
Shelton to Belfair Trail $0 $0 $0 $0 $1,000,000 $1,000,000 $10,000,000 WWRP Trails, Bond,
REET I
North Bay Trail $0 $900,000 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 TIP CAP, REET I,
Bond, Fundraise
SW Area Community Park
Study $0 $0 $0 $0 $50,000 $0 $0 REET II
Belfair/North Mason Area
Skatepark $0 $0 $300,000 $0 $0 $0 $0 REET II, WWRP,
YAF, Fundraise
Shelton/South Mason
Area Skatepark $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $500,000 REET II, WWRP,
YAF, Fundraise
Oakland Bay Park
Acquisition - 27 acres $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $425,000 $0 SRFB, LWCF,
REET I, WWRP
Oakland Bay Park Phase
II - Interpretative
Components
$0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $500,000 WWRP, REET II,
Fundraise
Oakland Bay Historical
Home Renovation $0 $0 $0 $0 $75,000 $0 $0 Historic Renovation
Grant
Mason Lake Park
Restroom Upgrades and
Improvements
$0 $0 $0 $143,125 $0 $0 $0 REET II, BFP
Mason Lake Park Picnic
Shelter $0 $0 $0 $75,000 $0 $0 $0 REET II, Donations
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Chapter 7 Page 79
Project 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 Beyond 2018 Funding Options
Mason Lake Park Play
Equipment $0 $0 $0 $40,000 $0 $0 $0 REET II, Donations
Jacoby Park Planning $60,000 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 REET II, BFP
Jacoby Park Boat ramp,
pier, gangway, parking $0 $850,000 $0 $0 $0 $0 REET II, BFP
Jacoby Park Play Area,
Picnic, and Site
Improvements
$0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $200,000 $0 REET II, Fund raise
Sandhill Park fields #2 and
#3 Renovation $0 $712,740 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 REET II, WWRP, YAF,
Donations
Sandhill Park Expansion $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $1,769,394 REET II, WWRP, YAF,
Donations
Sandhill Park Play
Equipment $0 $50,000 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 REET II, Fund Raise
North Mason School
District Soccer Field
(Partnership Program)
$0 $0 $1,333,333 $0 $0 $0 $0
REET II, WWRP
Local Parks, School
District, Donations
Walker Park beach access
improvement $5,000 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 REET II
Walker Park
Improvements, picnic
shelter, Removal of
Basketball Court
$111,250 $0 $0 $0 $0 $298,090 $0 REET II
Union Boat Launch
Renovation $357,200 $828,000 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 REET II, BFP
Watson Wildwood Park
Site Plan $0 $0 $40,000 $0 $0 $0 $0 REET II
Watson Wildwood Park
Development $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $500,000 REET II, WWRP,
LWCF
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Chapter 7 Page 80
Project 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 Beyond 2018 Funding Options
Rendsland Park Phase I
Site Development $0 $0 $234,000 $0 $0 $0 $0 REET II, Fund Raise
Rendsland Park Phase II
Site Development $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $200,000 REET II, Fund Raise
Latimer’s Landing
Connector Trail $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $150,000 REET II, BFP
Latimer’s Landing
Improvements $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $131,500 REET II, BFP
Phillips Lake Park
Amenities $0 $10,000 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 REET II
Water Spray Park
Development $0 $0 $0 $500,000 $0 $0 $0 REET II, WWRP
Sunset Bluff Park Site
Plan $35,000 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 REET II, Donations,
In Kind
Sunset Bluff Development $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $750,000 WWRP WA, WWRP
LP, REET II
Coulter Creek Park
Boardwalk and View Area $0 $0 $0 $300,000 $0 $0 $0 WWRP LP-WA,
REET II
Maintenance Equipment,
Tractors, Mowing Decks $0 $150,000 $150,000 $0 $0 $0 $0 REET I & II
TOTALS $1,428,450 $3,650,740 $2,933,283 $1,781,155 $1,643,940 $2,469,390 $15,333,894
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Chapter 7 Page 81
7.3: FUNDING SOURCES
Detail Description of Grant and Funding Sources for Acquisition and Development:
County’s annual general government expenditures are derived from the combination of
general fund, special revenue, capital projects funds and debt service. The following is a
listing of suggestions for possible sources of funds for capital facility projects or sources of
matching grants for implementation of current and future recommendations.
Capital projects can secure matching grant funds from a variety of sources, which include
local taxes and County funding, as well as state and federal capital fund programs which are
listed below in detail.
General Fund: This source primarily funds general operations and maintenance. Capital
projects are occasionally funded from these sources when the capacity exists, usually via a
transfer of funds to the Capital Improvement Program Fund (CIP).
Real Estate Excise Tax (REET): Tax imposed at the time of a real estate sale. There are two
components of the tax, the first quarter of one percent of the sale to be used for acquisition
and development projects and the second quarter of one percent (development projects only)
of the property’s sale price. Cities and counties that are not levying the optional half-cent
sales tax under RCW 82.14.030(2) have the option of levying an additional one-half percent
real estate excise tax. These receipts are not designated for capital projects. They are
general fund revenue for city operating expenditures. Only two cities, Asotin and Clarkston,
have chosen to do this. From a financial standpoint, the optional half-cent sales tax will
probably bring in more revenue than this additional one-half percent real estate excise tax.
Many cities and counties as a priority dedicate the revenues to be used for park and
recreation capital purposes. This tax does not require the vote of the people. Because this
revenue source has a dedicated purpose, it must be accounted for separately in a capital
projects fund. Those cities and counties that are planning under GMA and levying both REET 1
and REET 2 need to keep track of each of these revenues separately because the uses to
which they may be put are different. RCW 82.46.030(2) and RCW 82.46.035(4). Revenue from
this fund should be estimated conservatively, as the real estate market can be volatile.
Washington State The principle revenue source for Washington State is the sales and use tax.
It is an important funding source for cities and counties, second only to the property tax.
Almost half of the state’s taxes for the general fund are from the imposed sales tax of 6.5
percent. Local governments have a number of different optional sales and use taxes, which
also represent a substantial support for the local general fund budget. The cities and counties
can levy basic sales and use tax of 0.5 percent and can add an optional tax of up to an
additional 0.5 percent for a total of 1.0 percent.20 Several additional local options are
allowed for transit, public facilities and criminal justice purposes, including sales and use tax
of up to 1.2 percent levied by a public facilities district for financing acquisition, operation
and maintenance of public facilities district for financing acquisition, operation and
maintenance of public facilities including parks and recreation facilities.21
Special Excise Tax: This tax is levied as a special excise tax of 2% on lodging as allowed under
RCW Chapter 82.08. The funds collected are placed in the “Tourism Activities Fund” to be
used solely for tourist promotion, acquisition and operation of tourism-related facilities or all
other uses authorized under RCW Chapter 67.28.
20 82.14.048
21 82.14.048
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Chapter 7 Page 82
General Obligation Bonds: These are voter-approved or Councilmatic bonds with the
assessment placed on real property. The money can only be used for capital improvements
not maintenance. This property tax is levied for a specified period of time (usually 20-30
years). Passage of a voter-ratified bond requires a 60%, majority vote, while Councilmatic
bonds require only a majority of the elected City Council or Board of Commissioners. One
disadvantage of using this type of levy may be the interest costs.
Voter approved Utility Tax Increase: Citizen voted increases in utility taxes are an option as
a parks and recreation Facilities Funding Measure. The funds can provide an on-going funding
source of dollars dedicated to specific capital funding projects, e.g. City of Olympia measure
of 3% provides $2,000,000 annually for park capital projects which includes trails.
Growth Impact Fees: Park Growth Impact Fees are fees imposed on new development to
mitigate the impact of new development on the city or County park system. Impact fees can
be used only for parkland acquisition and/or development. Cities and counties planning under
the Growth Management Act, in title RCW 82.02.050 (2) can impose, collect and use impact
fees.
Certificate of Participation (COP): This is a lease-purchase approach where a city or county
COP’s to a lending institution and does not require a public vote. The governing body then
pays the loan off from revenue produced by the facility or from its general operating budget.
The lending institution holds title to the property until the COP’s are repaid.
HUD Block Grants: Grants from the federal Department of Housing and Urban Development
are available for a wide variety of park projects (5% of total). With existing lower income
areas in the city and county, park improvements and facility upgrades can benefit from
Community Development Block Grants. Grants can fund up to 100% of the project. The
Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) access projects for parks and playgrounds are eligible
for this funding.
Donations: The donation of labor, land or cash by service agencies, private groups, or
individuals is a popular way to raise small amounts of money or reduce the cost of capital
development of a park. Under RCW 35.21.278, the community service organizations and
associations providing service in the local area can provide, without regard for public bid,
design plans, improvements to a park or public square, installing equipment or artworks, or
providing maintenance services for the facility as a community or neighborhood project.
Within one year, the cost cannot exceed $25,000 or $2.00 per resident. The contracting
association may use volunteers in the project.
Life Estates: This is an agreement between a landowner and the city or county where the
government buys or receives, through donation, a piece of land and they then give the owner
the right to live on the site after it is sold for the lifetime of the owner.
Private Grants and Foundations: Private grants and foundations provide funds for a wide
range of projects. In many instances the foundations are required to provide the grant funds
through a non-profit entity. The City and County can establish a non-profit “Parks
Foundation” with the purpose of securing capital funds from private foundations and trusts.
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Chapter 7 Page 83
COUNTY FUNDING/LEGISLATIVE OPTIONS:
Conservation Futures: Conservation Futures are a useful tool for counties to preserve land of
public interest for future generations in both the unincorporated and incorporated areas of
the County. RCW 8.34.230 allows a property tax levy to provide a reliable and predictable
source of funds to help acquire interests in open space, habitat areas, wetlands, farm,
agricultural and timberlands for conservation. However, some counties have purchased
Regional Parks and sites for trail use as well. A portion of the funds from the Conservation
Futures tax levy can be dedicated to the cost of maintaining and operating the property.
STATE FUNDING:
Washington State provides various grants for public recreation acquisition and development
through the Recreation and Conservation Office (RCO), the Department of Natural Resources
(DNR) and Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) and Washington State
Department of Ecology (ECY) programs.
Recreation and Conservation Office (RCO): The Recreation and Conservation Funding Board
(RCFB) administers several grant programs for recreation and habitat conservation purposes.
Depending on the program, eligible project applicants can include municipal subdivisions of
the state (cities, towns and counties, or port, utility, park and recreation, and school
districts), Native American tribes, state agencies and in some cases, federal agencies and
nonprofit organizations. To be considered for funding assistance, most grant programs require
that the proposed project will be operated and maintained in perpetuity for the purpose for
which funding is sought. Most grant programs also require that sponsors complete a
systematic planning process prior to seeking RCFB funding. Grants are awarded by the RCFB
Board based on a public, competitive process which weighs the merits of proposed projects
against established program criteria. http://www.rco.wa.gov/
The grant categories include:
Washington Wildlife and Recreation Program (WWRP): Funds the acquisition and
development of conservation and recreation lands. The Outdoor Recreation Account of the
WWRP provides matching grant funds for local and state park projects, which include active
parks, playgrounds, sports fields, water access sites, trails, natural areas, urban wildlife
habitat and farmland preservation. The RCO accepts grant applications by May 1st of each
even year. The successfully scored projects are presented to the Governor, who recommends
them to the legislature for capital funding the following year.
Aquatic Lands Enhancement Account (ALEA) Grant Program: This grant-in-aid supports the
purchase, improvement, or protection of aquatic lands for public purposes, and for providing
and improving access to such lands. It is guided by concepts originally developed by
Department of Natural Resources, including re-establishment of naturally self-sustaining
ecological functions related to aquatic lands, providing or restoring public access to the
water, and increasing public awareness of aquatic lands as a finite natural resource and
irreplaceable public heritage.
Youth Athletic Facilities (YAF): The program was approved by Washington voters as part of
Referendum 48, which provides funding for the Seattle Seahawks stadium. The purpose is for
acquiring, developing, equipping, maintaining, and improving youth and community athletic
facilities. Eligible grant recipients are cities, counties and qualified non-profit organizations.
Grant recipients must provide at least 50% matching funds in either cash or in-kind
contributions. An initial $10-million was contributed by the Seattle Seahawks “team affiliate”
sources for the grant program.
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Chapter 7 Page 84
Firearms and Archery Range Recreation Program (FARR): This funding is used to acquire,
develop and renovate public and private non-profit firearm range and archery training and
practice facilities. To qualify for funding, ranges must be open on a regular basis to law
enforcement personnel, hunter safety education classes, and the general public. Grant
recipients must provide matching funds in either cash or in-kind contributions. Funding comes
from $3.00 for each concealed pistol license fee. Acquisition, development, renovation
projects, capital equipment purchase, safety and environmental improvements, noise
abatement and liability protection are all funded through this grant program.
Salmon Recovery Grant Program: Funding is for protection and/or restoration of salmon
habitat. It also supports feasibility assessments for future projects and other activities.
Applicants must provide at least 15% matching funds in either cash or in-kind contributions.
State funding has been provided through fund shifts from other funding accounts and general
obligation bonds. Federal funds are appropriated through the Department of Commerce,
National Marine Fisheries (NMFS). Working with the Watershed Resource Area (WRIA) 16/17 as
lead agency, projects and funding can be identified for various salmon habitat projects.
Washington State Department of Commerce:
Building of the Arts: Building for the Arts awards grants to 501c3 nonprofit performing arts,
art museums, and cultural organizations to defray up to 20 percent of eligible capital costs
for the acquisition, construction and or major renovation of capital facilities. This is a
reimbursement-style grant, and operating costs are ineligible.
Direct Appropriation: Direct appropriations are placed in the state budget by the Governor
or legislature. The Department of Commerce Capital Programs has no role in the selection of
grant recipients. These types of grants may be used by designated local governments, tribes,
and nonprofit organizations throughout the state to acquire or construct a variety of capital
projects. Each project funded under these programs stimulates the state and local economies
by providing construction-related employment and associated revenues.
Humanities Washington: Humanities Washington supports public programs that have as their
primary purpose the presentation of insights gained from the humanities. Humanities
Washington offers two types of grants. Quick Grants are available year-round to small or rural
organizations for program planning or implementation. Project Grants are usually awarded
twice a year through a competitive grant process for larger projects.
FEDERAL FUNDING:
On the Federal level, Congress appropriates funds through a variety of programs that may
provide potential funding sources for various capital projects. These include the
Environmental Protection Act, Land and Water Conservation Fund Account, Rivers, Trails and
Conservation Assistance Program (RTCA), Housing and Urban Development (HUD), Economic
Development Funding (EDI), Community Block Grant HUD, Environmental Protection Act with
Brownfield’s clean-up funding, United States Department of Agriculture low interest loans
and through direct Congressional Appropriation (see specifics regarding each grant below).
Links to government grant sources can be found at firstgov.com and grants.gov.
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Chapter 7 Page 85
Congressional Grants for Neighborhood Initiatives: are received annually and are by
invitation only through your congressional Representative or U.S. Senator. The FY 2013
invitations will come out in the spring and are administered under the Homes and
Communities Division of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).
FY 2013 Congressional Appropriation: Annually, U.S. Senators and House Members accept
letters of proposals and applications for appropriation requests. Project descriptions and
letters of request for appropriation are due March 1st.
The Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF): Program funds come through Congressional
appropriation in recreation resources including, but not limited to parks, trails, wildlife lands
and other lands and facilities desirable for individual active participation. Grant recipients
must provide at least 50% matching funds in either cash or in-kind contributions. A portion of
the Federal revenue is derived from sale or lease of off-shore oil and gas resources and is re-
appropriated to projects through the U.S.Congress to the Department of the Interior under
the National Park Service (NPS). The program is administered in Washington State by the RCO.
Sites purchased or developed with LWCF funds are deed protected for outdoor recreation
purposes and are defined through the use of “6f” federal map delineation.
Surface Transportation Act (MAP-21)
In early July 2012, the Surface Transportation Act (MAP-21) was signed into law by the
President. MAP-21 contains 600-plus pages. Key things to know specifically are how it impacts
existing federal support for walking and bicycling. The two big changes are:
Combining/Streamlining of Existing Programs; and,
Less Funding and More Competition.
Under previous law, popular programs such as Transportation Enhancements (TE), Safe Routes
to Schools, and the Recreation Trails Program (RTP) were funded as stand-alone programs,
which meant they each received dedicated annual funding. MAP-2 eliminates these stand
alone programs and creates a new funding category called Transportation Alternatives (TA).
TE, Safe Routes to Schools, and RTP projects are now rolled into the TA category within MAP-
21. Additionally, many other projects, including expansive environmental mitigation and
limited road construction projects, are also included under TA and will now compete for
these same funds. The problem is that funding for TE, Safe Routes to School and RTP has
historically totaled approximately $1.2 billion per year. MAP-21 cuts overall funding for
consolidated Transportation Alternatives category by a third, so that only approximately $800
million will be annually available. TE and Safe Routes to Schools remain eligible for funding,
but they must now compete against each other as well as a multitude of other programs for
much less money. The states will be distributing TA funds but retains discretion over the
types of projects it will fund-meaning that states may “opt-out” of using 50% of their TA
funding for projects such as trails and bike paths.
National Recreation Trails Program (RTP): The National Recreational Trails Program (NRTP)
provides funds to rehabilitate and maintain recreational trails and facilities that provide a
backcountry experience. Eligible Projects: Maintenance of recreational trails, development of
trail-side and trail-head facilities, construction of new trails, operation of environmental
education and trails safety programs. Revenue Source: Federal gasoline taxes attributed to
recreational non-highway uses. The program is administered by the U.S. Department of
Transportation through the Federal Highway Administration and in Washington State by the
RCO.
The Boating Infrastructure Grant Program (BIG): This federal program provides funding for
recreational transient boating facilities, targeting the needs of recreational boats 25-feet and
larger. This program is administered through the RCO.
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Chapter 7 Page 86
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development: Brownfield’s Economic Development
Initiative (BEDI): The BEDI program provides funding to local governments to be used in
conjunction with Section 108 loan guarantees to finance redevelopment of Brownfield’s sites.
Information about the program is available at:
http//www.hud.gov/offices/cpd/economicdevelopment/programs/bedi/index.dfm
Environmental Protection Agency: Brownfield’s Cleanup Revolving Loan Fund Pilots: The
BCRLF program allows states and local governments to receive loan funds for environmental
clean-up of Brownfield’s. The purpose of the program is to enable states and local
governments to make low interest loans to facilitate the clean-up and re-development of
Brownfield’s properties. Contact: www.epa.gov/swerosps/bf/rlflst.htm or check for
additional grants at http//www.epa.gov/owow/funding/governments.html
National Endowment for the Arts Grant: In working with the Washington State Arts
Commission, grants are available in January. Sign up notification from
webmgr@arts.endow.gov
National Endowment for the Humanities: /The NEH is an independent grant-making federal
agency dedicated to supporting research, education, preservation and public programs in the
humanities. View grant opportunities at http://www.neh.gov
National Tree Trust: National Tree Trust provides trees through two programs: America’s
Tree Ways and Community Tree Planting. These programs require trees to be planted by
volunteers on public lands. Additionally, the America’s Tree Way program requires a Minimum
of 100 seedlings be planted along public highways.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA): EPA offers Low Impact Development Storm
Water Management Grants (LID) providing financial assistance through the Washington State
Department of Ecology Water Quality Program http//www.ecy.w.gov One of the most
effective ways to manage storm water-runoff pollution is to Minimize how much run-off
occurs in the first place. LID-designed sites have fewer impervious surfaces and use
vegetation, healthy soils, small-scale storage and dispersion/infiltration techniques to
manage storm water. This grant program began as a pilot in 2006. If successful and federal
funds continue to support the program, park improvements such as shoreline enhancements,
parking roadway and walkway replacement with pervious surfaces would all meet the criteria
of the LID grant goals. An example of a successful LID waterfront park grant recipient is Lions
Field Park located in the City of Bremerton which was an original LWCF federally funded
development project. Contact:
http//www.epa.gov/swerosps/bf/rlflst.htm
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD): Housing and Urban
Development (HUD) Economic Development Funding (EDI) program administers the
Community Development Block Grant Program (CDBG) provides block grants to eligible local
governments. Approximately $100-million of CDBG funds are utilized annually for park and
recreation projects which often are initiated along with more comprehensive community
redevelopment initiatives.
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Chapter 7 Page 87
In addition to the capital facilities plan project, grant funding is available from a variety of
sources for community recreation programs. Special health and youth related grant
information can be obtained from the National Center for Disease Control, U.S. Department
of Education, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, U.S. Department of Education,
U.S. Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention and U.S. Department of
Agriculture Food Nutrition Service.
PRIVATE FUNDING:
Donations: The donation of labor, land or cash by service agencies, private clubs,
corporations or individuals is a popular way to raise small amounts of money for specific
projects. The private funds are critical to show commitment of non-government dollars and as
a positive result can elevate the standing of the grant proposal. Such service agencies as the
Kiwanis and Rotary often fund small project improvements in partnership or provide the
donated labor match to bring the project to fruition. Environmental groups such as the Trust
for Public Lands or Cascade Land Conservancy organize and in partnership provide volunteer
labor for habitat restoration which can serve as a value for consideration toward the local
match requirement on specific grants. Principle property tax payers in the city and County
area such as Safeway or Kroger Foods are sources of local contributions for civic and
environmental benefits. As a partnership opportunity they should be contacted, provided with
collateral project information and approached with regard to an initial request for
partnership support funding. As with all grant programs, grant agencies are looking to local
communities to work with local advocates, sponsors and private partners to bring the project
to a funding level. Community advocates can elevate the level of project scores in a
competitive funding cycle. In some grant programs, grants require private partnerships as a
condition of application.
Corporate Funding: Example: The Nick “Let’s Just Play Giveaway”: Nickelodeon is a unique
grant-giving program that brings much needed dollars to enhance recreation. A community
nominates a project and each month 20 winners receive a grant which includes funding to
build playgrounds. Contact publicaffairs@nick.com
FOUNDATIONS & GRANTS
Private grants and foundations: Many private foundations provide money for a wide range of
projects. Grants are available for children, cultural enrichment and heritage preservation. In
many cases, foundations require grant requests from non-profit 501c3 organizations. On all
phases of park projects, staff should work with or create a partnership with private non-profit
organizations and seek opportunities to secure grant funds from private non-profit
foundations. There are over 100 IRS 990 non-profits listed in the Shelton and Mason County
area.
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Chapter 7 Page 88
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Appendix A-1 Page 89
FACILITY INVENTORY WORKSHEETS APPENDIX A-1
INTRODUCTION
This appendix section of the Comprehensive Park and Trails Plan provides history and
describes conditions and planned development for each of the Mason County Parks.
PLANNING CONCEPT
Collectively the ideal park system for Mason County is one that provides a variety of various
park types offering certain types of recreation and open space opportunities. Each park
separately may serve a basic function, but together they provide a network of needs for the
entire community. The Mason County park system is centered on the ideal that local areas
across the county should have the ability to be served by regional or natural open space areas
or have the opportunity to enjoy community parks and neighborhood parks that provides both
passive and active recreational opportunities.
The parks and open space areas defined in this plan are intended to achieve a number of
purposes that reflect the Mission Statement to:
Provide a diverse system of safe, attractive, and professionally maintained
parks, trails and recreation opportunities designed to enhance the quality of life
for all who reside in and visit Mason County.
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Chapter 7 Page 90
PARK SITE INDEX:
Alphabetical / Existing Parks
Type Park Name Acreage
Community Park Coulter Creek 55.00
Natural Open Space Decker Creek 500.00
Neighborhood Park (10)
Natural Open Space (70) Foothills County Park 80.00
Natural Open Space Harstine Island Park 6.90
Community Park Harvey Rendsland/Jiggs Lake Park 15.00
Neighborhood Park Hunter Park 0.15
Community Park Jacoby/Shorecrest 2.80
Community Park Latimer’s Landing 5.00
Regional Park Mason County Recreation Area 40.00
Community Park Mason County Skate Park #1 0.50
Community Park Mason Lake County Park 17.36
Community Park Menard’s Landing Launch & Day Use Area 7.40
Regional Park Oakland Bay Historical Park 81.87
Community Park Phillips Lake Park 0.40
Regional Park Sandhill County Park 30.00
Community Park Sunset Bluff Park 36.00
Community Park Truman Glick Memorial Park 35.46
Community Park Union Boat Ramp 0.16
Neighborhood Park Union Park 1.92
Community Park Walker Park 5.04
Natural Open Space Watson Wildwood View Park 36.00
TOTAL 956.96
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Chapter 7 Page 91
Section A-1:
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 described for the following parks:
◆ Coulter Creek
◆ Decker Creek
◆ Harstine Island Park
◆ Harvey Rendsland/Jiggs Lake Park
◆ Hunter Park
◆ Jacoby/Shorecrest
◆ Mason County Skate Park #1
◆ Menard’s Landing Launch & Day Use Area
◆ Oakland Bay Historical Park
◆ Phillips Lake Park
◆ Sunset Bluff
◆ Watson Wildwood View Park
Additionally an in-depth analysis was completed on the following parks by Robert W. Droll
and Associates. The Park Master Plan description includes vicinity and location maps,
quantified assessment of existing park conditions, current and proposed improvements,
capital funding cost estimates and identified capital funding amount and sources previously
secured either for acquisition or development or for both acquisition and development of the
park site. These Master Site Plans were completed for the following park sites:
◆ Foothills County Park
◆ Latimer’s Landing
◆ Mason County Recreation Area
◆ Mason Lake County Park
◆ Sandhill County Park
◆ Truman Glick Memorial Park
◆ Union Boat Ramp
◆ Union Park
◆ Walker Park
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Chapter 7 Page 92
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Appendix A-1 Page 93
PARK DESCRIPTIONS/CONCEPT PLANS APPENDIX A-2
Coulter Creek COMMUNITY PARK
Location: Tip of Case Inlet on Northbay County Road
Size: 55.0 Acres
Ownership/Deed Restriction Mason County
Status: Developed
Existing facilities at site: None
Planned Improvements: Fishing
Water Access
Trails
Wildlife Viewing
Natural Areas
Picnicking
Restroom
ADA
Passive
Dogs Allowed
Comments: Purchased in 2012 with matching grant funds from the Recreation and Conservation Office .
State Matching Grant: #10-1601 WWRP-WA
Park Development Planning (2013-2018 Projects)
1. Boardwalk Trail Development
2. Wildlife Viewing Platform
Site Location Map and Photo
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Appendix A-2 Page 94
Decker Creek NATURAL OPEN SPACE
Comments: Purchased from Green Diamond Resource Company in 2010.
State Matching Grants: 06-1943 WWRP-RP-ACQ and 06-2151 SAL-PRG-FED
Site Location Map and
Photo
Location: West Mason County
Size: 500.00 Acres
Ownership/Deed Restriction: Mason County
Status: Undeveloped
Existing facilities at site: None
Planned Improvements: None Planned (2013-2018)
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Appendix A-2 Page 95
Harstine Island Park NATURAL OPEN SPACE
Comments: Purchased in December 2002.
Harstine Island Park could possibly be leased to a group desiring to develop the Harstine Island Theater
at the park site. 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.
Location: 2411 Harstine Island Road N, Shelton
Size: 6.9 Acres
Ownership/Deed Restriction: Mason County
Status: Undeveloped
Existing facilities at site: None
Planned Improvements: None Planned (2013-2018)
Site Location Photo
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Appendix A-2 Page 96
Harvey Rendsland Jiggs Lake Park COMMUNITY PARK
Comments: Transferred from Washington State Parks in 2008.
This Park was transferred from Washington State Parks to Mason County. Currently undeveloped, the
park consists of 8 acres and includes approximately 1,900 ft. of waterfront access to Jiggs Lake. The
Master Plan with costs estimates in complete.
Site Location Photos
Location: 10991 NE Belfair Tahuya Road, Tahuya
Size: 15.0 Acres
Ownership/Deed Restriction: Mason County
Status: Undeveloped
Existing facilities at site: Entry Road/Water Access
Parking
Access Parking
Planned Improvements: Picnicking
Trails
Additional Parking
Signage
Picnic Shelter
Park Development Planning
(2013-2018 Projects)
1. Expanded Parking
2. Secondary Parking
3. Trails
4. Improved Entry Road
5. Vault Toilet
6. Picnic Shelter
7. Picnic Areas
8. Improved Lake Access
9. Signage
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Appendix A-2 Page 97
Hunter Park NEIGHBORHOOD PARK
Comments: 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.
Location: Clifton Lane and Old Belfair Highway, Belfair
Size: 0.15 Acres
Ownership/Deed Restriction: Mason County
Status: Developed as bus stop area
Existing facilities at site: ADA
Passive
Bench
Bus Stop
Planned Improvements: No County Capital Plans: (2013-2018)
Private project funding for Bus Shelter
Site Location Photo
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Appendix A-2 Page 98
Jacoby/Shorecrest COMMUNITY PARK
Comments: Deeded to County on May 18, 1959 by Lillian Peterson, Marie Bloom, Retta Hultgren,
Emerson and Evelyn White.
Park located along Hammersley Inlet. Park includes beach access, boat launch, and picnic tables. The
Master Plan is complete with project cost estimates for the Park.
Site Location Photos
Location: E 120 Shorecrest Parkway, Shelton
Size: 2.80 Acres
Ownership/Deed Restriction: Mason County
Status: Developed Regional Active Sports Park
Existing facilities at site: Boat Launch
Fishing
Passive
Parking
Planned Improvements: Boat Launch
Fishing
Passive
Parking
Park Development Planning (2013-2018 Projects)
1. Renovated Boat Launch
2. New Gangway, Dock and Pier
3. Added Parking
4. Play Area
5. Picnic Shelter
6. Restroom or Portable Toilet
7. Picnic Tables
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Appendix A-2 Page 99
Mason County Skate Park #1 COMMUNITY PARK
Comments: Property leased to Mason County from Shelton School District.
Modular skate ramps located on Shelton School District property adjacent to the Wal-Mart store. The
County has leased the property from the school district and developed the skatepark.
Park Development Planning (2013-2018 Projects)
1. Investigate New Skatepark Site
2. Belfair Skatepark
Location: N 3301 Shelton Springs Road, Shelton
Size: 0.50 Acres
Ownership/Deed Restriction: Shelton School District leased to Mason County
Status: Developed Regional Active Sports Park
Existing facilities at site: Skateboarding
Picnicking
Passive
Restroom
ADA
Parking
Planned Improvements: None
Site Location Photos
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Appendix A-2 Page 100
Menard’s Landing Launch & Day Use Area COMMUNITY PARK
Comments: Transferred to Mason County when Port of Tahuya dissolved. Site improvements have
been done in partnership with the Washington Water Trails Association.
State Matching Grants: 89-033 ALEA ACQ and 07-1406 RTP
This park was recently transferred from the Port of Tahuya to Mason County. This small park provides
beach access, includes picnic areas and a gazebo. It includes a portable toilet and access to adjacent
DNR tidelands. Small boat launch for kayaks or canoes.
Location: 18931 NE North Shore Road, Tahuya
Size: 7.4 Acres
Ownership/Deed Restriction: Mason County
Status: Developed
Existing facilities at site: Hand carry boat launch
Fishing
Picnicking
Walking and Jogging
Barbecues
Picnic Shelter
Restroom
Passive Use
Parking
Planned Improvements: Possible Trailhead for trail to Harvey Rendsland Park
Park Development Planning (2013-2018 Projects)
1. Vault Toilet (near trailhead)
2. Improved Water Access Ramp
3. Trailhead On New Property Access and Street
4. Low Impact Asphalt Surfacing in Park
Site Location Photos
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Appendix A-2 Page 101
Oakland Bay Historical Park REGIONAL PARK
Comments: Purchased from Phyliss Bierge in April 2005. In 2012 Oakland Bay Park with the
Malaney-O’Neill historic home was listed on the Washington Heritage Register of Historic Places.
State Matching Grants: 09-1396 LWCF
Oakland Bay Park was purchased in a partnership arrangement with the Capital Land Trust. The park
has waterfront access to Oakland Bay and is the site of an old homestead. The homestead area includes
a turn of the century home and orchard area. The park is mostly timberland with a gravel road
accessing the home.
Site Location Photos
Location: Agate Road, Shelton
Size: 81.87 Acres
Ownership/Deed Restriction: Mason County
Status: Developed Phases and Natural Areas
Existing facilities at site: Walking/Jogging
Picnicking
Parking
Planned Improvements: Wildlife Viewing
Interpretation
Trails Parking Signage
Passive Use
Park Development Planning (2013-2018 Projects)
1. Phase I Development:
◆ Remodeled Exterior Of Home
◆ Bird Watching Platform
◆ Environmental Education Area/Shelter
◆ Interpretative Information Areas
◆ Path To View Point/Platform
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Appendix A-2 Page 102
Phillips Lake Park COMMUNITY PARK
Comments: Deeded to County on August 19, 1951 by Edward Clifford for $1.00.
Small park on Phillips Lake that includes a boat launch, restroom, and parking. The park is adjacent to
a boat launch owned by Washington State Fish and Wildlife.
Park Development Planning (2013-2018 Projects)
1. Picnic Tables Pads (3)
2. Picnic Tables
3. Park Benches (3)
4. Signage
5. Tree Thinning
Site Location Photos
Location: 50 E Phillips Lake Loop Road, Shelton
Size: 0.40 Acres
Ownership/Deed Restriction: Mason County
Status: Developed Water Access
Existing facilities at site: Boat Launch
Fishing
Restroom
Parking
Planned Improvements: None
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Appendix A-2 Page 103
Sunset Bluff COMMUNITY PARK
Comments: Purchased from Trust for Public Lands in 2012.
State Matching Grants: Phase I #10-1061 LWCF
Park Development Planning (2013-2018 Projects)
1. Complete Park Master Plan
2. Access Path and Trail to Beach
3. Information Signage
Location: End of Sunset Road, Shelton
Size: 36.00 Acres / 1,599 linear feet shoreline
Ownership/Deed Restriction: Mason County
Status: Undeveloped Natural Open Space
Existing facilities at site: Fishing
Water Access
Nature Areas
Passive
Parking
Planned Improvements: Trails
Picnicking
ADA
Parking
Interpretation
Restroom
Site Location Photos
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Appendix A-2 Page 104
Watson Wildwood View Park NEIGHBORHOOD PARK
Comments: Land donated in memory of John Houghton Watson and Alma Katherine Lowe Watson
from their children John, Alan and Katherine Wilson on May 8, 2000.
Watson Wildwood Park is located in Victor and is completely natural consisting of 36 acres of
timberland.
Park Development Planning (2013-2018 Projects)
1. Access Road and Parking
2. Vault Toilet
3. Trails
4. Signage
5. Viewpoint
6. Picnic Area
Site Location Photo
Location: Highway 302, Victor
Size: 36.00 Acres
Ownership/Deed Restriction: Mason County
Status: Undeveloped
Existing facilities at site: Natural Open Space
Planned Improvements: Parking
Trails
Picnicking
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Appendix A-2 Page 105
PARK DESCRIPTIONS/CONCEPT PLANS APPENDIX A-3
Plan Cost Estimates Compiled by Robert W. Droll, Landscape Architect, PS Lacey, Washington 360.456.3813
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Costs Mason County, WA
Park Name Project
Development
Park Name Renovation Master Plan New
Facilities New Trails
Foothills County Park $468,780
Foothills County Park $95,700 $30,000 $242,280 $100,800
Latimer's Landing $131,500
Latimer's Landing $1,000 $0 $130,500 $0
Mason County Recreation Area $3,358,700
Mason County Recreation Area $1,971,480 $20,000 $1,295,220 $72,000
Mason Lake County Park $143,125
Mason Lake County Park $143,125 $0 $0 $0
Sandhill County Park $2,491,135
Sandhill County Park $721,740 $0 $1,762,195 $7,200
Truman Glick Memorial Park $183,000
Truman Glick Memorial Park $60,600 $0 $32,400 $90,000
Union Boat Ramp $1,185,200
Union Boat Ramp $307,200 $50,000 $828,000 $0
Union Park $368,940
Union Park $368,940 $0 $0 $0
Walker Park $409,340
Walker Park $248,340 $35,000 $126,000 $0
Total Improvements $8,739,720 Total $3,918,125 $135,000 $4,416,595 $270,000
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Appendix A-2 Page 106
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Chapter A-2 Page 107
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Appendix A-2 Page 108
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Costs
Mason County, WA
Foothills County Park
Item Item Total unit quantity unit cost subtotal
mobilization,
contingency, taxes &
escalation @ 50%
1 RENOVATION
Replace park entry sign $1,000 ls 1 $1,000 $1,000 $0
Renovate & delineate parking area $67,500 each 1 $45,000 $45,000 $22,500
Lawn renovation $11,250 sf 6,000 $1 $7,500 $3,750
Renovation Subtotal $79,750 $53,500 $26,250
Design & Construction Administration $15,950
Renovation Total $95,700
2 MASTER PLAN
Master plan $30,000 ls $1 $30,000 $30,000
Master Plan Subtotal $30,000 $30,000 $0
Design & Construction Administration $0
Master Plan Total $30,000
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Appendix A-2 Page 109
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Costs
Mason County, WA
Foothills County Park
3 NEW FACILITIES
Nature trail signage $3,750 each 5 $500 $2,500 $1,250
Shelter/stage structure $90,000 each 1 $60,000 $60,000 $30,000
Pathway from shelter to restroom $2,400 sy 40 $40 $1,600 $800
Irrigation system $87,750 sf 78,000 $1 $58,500 $29,250
Picnic tables $18,000 each 4 $3,000 $12,000 $6,000
New Facilities Subtotal $201,900 $134,600 $67,300
Design & Construction Administration $40,380
New Facilities Total $242,280
4 NEW TRAILS
Nature trail development $84,000 lf $3,500 $16 $56,000 $28,000
New Trails Subtotal $84,000 $56,000 $28,000
Design & Construction Administration $16,800
New Trails Total $100,800
Project Development Total $468,780
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Appendix A-2 Page 110
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Appendix A-2 Page 111
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Appendix A-2 Page 112
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Costs
Mason County, WA
Latimer's Landing
Item Item Total unit quantity unit cost subtotal mobilization, contingency, taxes &
escalation @ 50%
1 RENOVATION
Replace park entry sign $1,000 ls 1 $1,000 $1,000
Renovation Subtotal $1,000
$1,000 $0
Design & Construction Administration
Renovation Total $1,000
2 MASTER PLAN
3 NEW FACILITIES
Information kiosk $15,000 ls 1 $10,000 $10,000 $5,000
Portable toilet enclosure $18,000 ls 1 $12,000 $12,000 $6,000
No parking sign for striped area $750 ls 1 $500 $500 $250
Beach access $75,000 ls 1 $50,000 $50,000 $25,000
New Facilities Subtotal $108,750 $72,500 $36,250
Design & Construction Administration $21,750
New Facilities Total $130,500
4 NEW TRAILS
Project Development Total $131,500
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Appendix A-2 Page 113
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Appendix A-2 Page 114
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Appendix A-2 Page 115
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Appendix A-2 Page 116
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Costs
Mason County, WA
Mason County Recreation Area (MCRA)
Item Item
Total unit quantity unit
cost subtotal mobilization, contingency, taxes
& escalation @ 50%
1 RENOVATION
Refill playground engineered wood fiber $2,700 cf 30 $60 $1,800 $900
Paint dugouts $21,000 each 14 $1,000 $14,000 $7,000
Re-side & Paint pump house $5,250 ls 1 $3,500 $3,500 $1,750
Renovate damaged field turf $22,500 each 5 $3,000 $15,000 $7,500
Permanently attach park furniture $7,500 ls 1 $5,000 $5,000 $2,500
Renovate/replace water fountain $12,000 ls 1 $8,000 $8,000 $4,000
irrigation system - outfields $450,450 ls 500,500 $1 $300,300 $150,150
irrigation system - park core $67,500 ls 60,000 $1 $45,000 $22,500
Renovate parking lot $75,000 ls 1 $50,000 $50,000 $25,000
Renovate field fence fabric $15,000 ls 1 $10,000 $10,000 $5,000
Replace dugout trim board & add flashing $31,500 each 14 $1,500 $21,000 $10,500
Replace field numbering $5,250 each 7 $500 $3,500 $1,750
Renovate/expand restroom $180,000 ls 1 $120,000 $120,000 $60,000
Renovate batting cages $75,000 ls 1 $50,000 $50,000 $25,000
Pave hardscape adjacent to ballfields $60,000 ls 1 $40,000 $40,000 $20,000
Install curb around playground $11,250 lf 250 $30 $7,500 $3,750
Install synthetic turf rings for practice areas $0 each $0 $0
Convert infields to synthetic turf / renovations $600,000 each 2 $200,000 $400,000 $200,000
Replace park entry sign $1,000 ls 1 $1,000 $1,000
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Appendix A-2 Page 117
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Costs
Mason County, WA
Mason County Recreation Area (MCRA)
Item Item Total Unit Quantity Unit Cost Subtotal
mobilization,
contingency, taxes &
escalation @ 50%
1 RENOVATION
New kiosk ls 1 $0 $0
Renovation Subtotal $1,642,900 $1,800 $900
Design & Construction Administration $328,580
Renovation Total $1,971,480
2 MASTER PLAN
Master plan $20,000 ls 1 $20,000 $20,000
Master Plan Subtotal $20,000 $20,000 $0
Design & Construction Administration $0
Master Plan Total $20,000
3 NEW FACILITIES
Wayfinding signage $3,000 ls 1 $2,000 $2,000 $1,000
Canopy over bleachers $0 each $0 $0
Fields Lights for Fields 2 & 3 $400,000 each 2 $150,000 $300,000 $150,000
Fence adjacent to pump house $1,350 lf 30 $30 $900 $450
Sprayground $600,000 ls 1 $400,000 $400,000 $200,000
Picnic Shelter $75,000 ls 1 $50,000 $50,000 $25,000
Project Development Subtotal $1,079,350 $752,900 $376,450
Design & Construction Administration $215,870
New Facilities Total $1,295,220
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Appendix A-2 Page 118
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Costs
Mason County, WA
Mason County Recreation Area (MCRA)
Item Item Total Unit Quantity Unit Cost Subtotal mobilization, contingency,
taxes & escalation @ 50%
4 NEW TRAILS
Perimeter Trail Development $60,000 lf 4,000 $10 $40,000 $20,000
New Trails Subtotal $60,000 $40,000 $20,000
Design & Construction Administration $12,000
New Trails Total $72,000
Project Development Total $3,358,700
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Appendix A-2 Page 119
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Appendix A-2 Page 120
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Appendix A-2 Page 121
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Appendix A-2 Page 122
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Costs
Mason County, WA
Mason Lake County Park
Item Item Total Unit Quantity Unit Cost Subtotal
mobilization,
contingency, taxes &
escalation @ 50%
1 RENOVATION
Log removal $7,500.00 ls 1 5,000.00 5,000.00 2,500.00
Replace park entry sign $2,000.00 ls 2 1,000.00 2,000.00
Renovate restrooms $105,000.00 ls 1 70,000.00 70,000.00 35,000.00
Renovate/replace information kiosk $12,000.00 ls 1 8,000.00 8,000.00 4,000.00
Renovation Subtotal $114,500.00 5,000.00 2,500.00
Design & Construction Administration $28,625.00
Renovation Total $143,125.00
2 MASTER PLAN
3 NEW FACILITIES
4 NEW TRAILS
Project Development Total $143,125.00
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Appendix A-2 Page 123
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Appendix A-2 Page 124
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Appendix A-2 Page 125
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Appendix A-2 Page 126
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Costs
Mason County, WA
Sandhill County Park
Item Item Total Unit Quantity Unit Cost Subtotal
mobilization,
contingency, taxes &
escalation @ 50%
1 RENOVATION
Replace stairs (field 1) $12,000.00 each 1 $8,000.00 $8,000.00 $4,000.00
Replace backstop (fields 1 & 2) $105,000.00 each 2 $35,000.00 $70,000.00 $35,000.00
Replace/renovate infield (field 1) $52,500.00 each 1 $35,000.00 $35,000.00 $17,500.00
Replace/renovate outfield (fields 1-3) $157,500.00 each 3 $35,000.00 $105,000.00 $52,500.00
Replace/renovate stands & bleachers $22,500.00 ls 1 $15,000.00 $15,000.00 $7,500.00
Replace perimeter fencing $11,250.00 lf 300 $25.00 $7,500.00 $3,750.00
Replace park entry sign $1,000.00 ls 1 $1,000.00 $1,000.00
Improve drainage (fields 1-3) $157,500.00 each 3 $35,000.00 $105,000.00 $52,500.00
Repair tunnel access $75,000.00 ls 1 $50,000.00 $50,000.00 $25,000.00
Dugouts- level with surrounding grade $7,200.00 each 6 $800.00 $4,800.00 $2,400.00
Renovation Subtotal $601,450.00 $8,000.00 $4,000.00
Design & Construction Administration $120,290.00
Renovation Total $721,740.00
2 MASTER PLAN
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Appendix A-2 Page 127
Sandhill County Park
Item Item Total Unit Quantity Unit Cost Subtotal
mobilization,
contingency, taxes &
escalation @ 50%
3 NEW FACILITIES
Synthetic Football/Soccer Field with Illumination $1,602,110.40 ls 1 $1,213,720.00 $1,213,720.00 $388,390.40
Dugouts- level with surrounding grade $7,200.00 each 6 $800.00 $4,800.00 $2,400.00
Renovation Subtotal $1,609,310.40 $4,800.00 $2,400.00
Design & Construction Administration $152,884.49
Renovation Total $1,762,194.89
4 NEW TRAILS
Nature Trail Development $6,000.00 lf 400 $10.00 $4,000.00 $2,000.00
New Trails Subtotal $6,000.00 $4,000.00 $2,000.00
Design & Construction Administration $1,200.00
New Trails Total $7,200.00
Project Development Total $2,491,134.89
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Costs
Mason County, WA
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Appendix A-2 Page 128
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Cost Mason County, WA
Sandhill County Park - Synthetic Multipurpose Field
Item Item Total Unit Quantity Unit Cost Subtotal mobilization, contingency,
taxes & escalation @ 50%
SYNTHETIC MULTIPURPOSE FIELD
clearing & grubbing $44,352.00 acre 4 $8,000.00 $33,600.00 $10,752.00
construction staking $10,560.00 ls 1 $8,000.00 $8,000.00 $2,560.00
temporary fencing $2,112.00 lf 800 $2.00 $1,600.00 $512.00
temporary erosion control $5,385.60 sf 102,000 $0.04 $4,080.00 $1,305.60
mass grading & compaction $105,600.00 cy 10,000 $8.00 $80,000.00 $25,600.00
excavation, including offsite haul $46,200.00 cy 1 $35,000.00 $35,000.00 $11,200.00
Subsurface drainage trench excavation
& offsite haul $6,600.00 cy 200 $25.00 $5,000.00 $1,600.00
geotexitle fabric $48,906.00 sy 11,400 $3.25 $37,050.00 $11,856.00
4" slotted pipe $61,248.00 lf 5,800 $8.00 $46,400.00 $14,848.00
trench backfill $8,910.00 cy 150 $45.00 $6,750.00 $2,160.00
type 2 drywell $63,360.00 each 4 $12,000.00 $48,000.00 $15,360.00
6" permeable base aggregate $160,380.00 ton 2,700 $45.00 $121,500.00 $38,880.00
2" permeable top aggregate $53,460.00 ton 900 $45.00 $40,500.00 $12,960.00
concrete curb $32,208.00 lf 1,220 $20.00 $24,400.00 $7,808.00
edge nailer $17,714.40 lf 1,220 $11.00 $13,420.00 $4,294.40
fine grading-base course $16,038.00 sf 81,000 $0.15 $12,150.00 $3,888.00
fine grading-top course $16,038.00 sf 81,000 $0.15 $12,150.00 $3,888.00
field illumination $264,000.00 sf 1 $200,000.00 $200,000.00 $64,000.00
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Appendix A-2 Page 129
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Costs
Mason County, WA
Sandhill County Park - Synthetic Multipurpose Field
Item Item Total Unit Quantity Unit Cost Subtotal mobilization, contingency,
taxes & escalation @ 50%
SYNTHETIC MULTIPURPOSE FIELD
synthetic turf-2.5" $588,060.00 sf 81,000 $5.50 $445,500.00 $142,560.00
csbc $8,910.00 sf 150 $45.00 $6,750.00 $2,160.00
concrete walk $14,572.80 sy 480 $23.00 $11,040.00 $3,532.80
concrete stairs $8,778.00 sy 190 $35.00 $6,650.00 $2,128.00
seeding $9,424.80 sf 102,000 $0.07 $7,140.00 $2,284.80
erosion control $2,692.80 sf 102,000 $0.02 $2,040.00 $652.80
trim & clean-up $6,600.00 ls 1 $5,000.00 $5,000.00 $1,600.00
Renovation Subtotal $1,602,110.40 $1,213,720.00 $388,390.40
Design & Construction Administration $152,200.49
Renovation Total $1,754,310.89
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Appendix A-2 Page 130
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Appendix A-2 Page 131
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Appendix A-2 Page 132
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Costs
Mason County, WA
Truman Glick Memorial Park
Item Item Total Unit Quantity Unit Cost Subtotal
mobilization,
contingency, taxes &
escalation @ 50%
1 RENOVATION
Renovate horse shoe pits $30,000.00 each 4 $5,000.00 $20,000.00 $10,000.00
Replace park entry sign $1,000.00 ls 1 $1,000.00 $1,000.00
Refill playground wood chips $2,700.00 cf 30 $60.00 $1,800.00 $900.00
Shelter pad- level with surrounding grade $15,000.00 ls 1 $10,000.00 $10,000.00 $5,000.00
Re-paint entrance gate $1,800.00 ls 1 $1,200.00 $1,200.00 $600.00
Renovation Subtotal $50,500.00 $34,000.00 $16,500.00
Design & Construction Administration $10,100.00
Renovation Total $60,600.00
2 MASTER PLAN
3 NEW FACILITIES
New picnic tables $15,000.00 each 4 $2,500.00 $10,000.00 $5,000.00
Prominent memorial marker $12,000.00 ls 1 $8,000.00 $8,000.00 $4,000.00
New Facilities Subtotal $27,000.00 $18,000.00 $9,000.00
Design & Construction Administration $5,400.00
New Facilities Total $32,400.00
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Appendix A-2 Page 133
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Costs
Mason County, WA
Truman Glick Memorial Park
Item Item Total Unit Quantity Unit Cost Subtotal
mobilization,
contingency, taxes &
escalation @ 50%
4 NEW TRAILS
interpretive trails and signage $75,000.00 ls 1 $50,000.00 $50,000.00 $25,000.00
New Trails Subtotal $75,000.00 $50,000.00 $25,000.00
Design & Construction Administration $15,000.00
New Trails Total $90,000.00
Project Development Total $183,000.00
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Appendix A-2 Page 134
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Appendix A-2 Page 135
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Appendix A-2 Page 136
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Costs
Mason County, WA
Union Boat Ramp
Item Item Total Unit Quantity Unit Cost Subtotal
mobilization,
contingency, taxes &
escalation @ 50%
1 RENOVATION
Renovate boat launch $180,000.00 1 $120,000.00 $120,000.00 $60,000.00
Pave access drive $75,000.00 ls 1 $50,000.00 $50,000.00 $25,000.00
Replace park entry sign $1,000.00 ls 1 $1,000.00 $1,000.00
Renovation Subtotal $256,000.00 $171,000.00 $85,000.00
Design & Construction Administration $51,200.00
Renovation Total $307,200.00
2 MASTER PLAN
master plan $50,000.00 ls $1.00 $50,000.00 $50,000.00
Master Plan Subtotal $50,000.00 $50,000.00 $0.00
Design & Construction Administration $0.00
Master Plan Total $50,000.00
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Appendix A-2 Page 137
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Costs
Mason County, WA
Union Boat Ramp
Item Item Total Unit Quantity Unit Cost Subtotal
mobilization,
contingency, taxes &
escalation @ 50%
3 NEW FACILITIES
Portable toilet enclosure $15,000.00 each 1 $10,000.00 $10,000.00 $5,000.00
Pier / Dock $600,000.00 ls 1 $400,000.00 $400,000.00 $200,000.00
Gangway $75,000.00 ls 1 $50,000.00 $50,000.00 $25,000.00
New Facilities Subtotal $690,000.00 $460,000.00 $230,000.00
Design & Construction Administration $138,000.00
New Facilities Total $828,000.00
4 NEW TRAILS
Project Development Total $1,185,200.00
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Appendix A-2 Page 138
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Appendix A-2 Page 139
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Appendix A-2 Page 140
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Costs
Mason County, WA
Union Park
Item Item Total Unit Quantity Unit Cost Subtotal
mobilization,
contingency, taxes &
escalation @ 50%
1 RENOVATION
Resurface basketball court $30,000.00 ls 1 $20,000.00 $20,000.00 $10,000.00
Replace park entry sign $1,000.00 ls 1 $1,000.00 $1,000.00
Replace split rail fence $7,500.00 lf 200 $25.00 $5,000.00 $2,500.00
Renovate ballfield & amenities $112,500.00 ls 1 $75,000.00 $75,000.00 $37,500.00
Re-paint restroom building $52,500.00 ls 1 $35,000.00 $35,000.00 $17,500.00
Renovate restroom $90,000.00 ls 1 $60,000.00 $60,000.00 $30,000.00
Refill playground wood chips $2,700.00 cf 30 $60.00 $1,800.00 $900.00
Shelter pad- level with surrounding grade $3,750.00 ls 1 $2,500.00 $2,500.00 $1,250.00
Grafitti removal/facility clean-up $7,500.00 ls 1 $5,000.00 $5,000.00 $2,500.00
Renovation Subtotal $307,450.00 $205,300.00 $102,150.00
Design & Construction Administration $61,490.00
Renovation Total $368,940.00
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Appendix A-2 Page 141
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Costs
Mason County, WA
Union Park
2 MASTER PLAN
3 NEW FACILITIES
4 NEW TRAILS
Project Development Total $368,940.00
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Appendix A-2 Page 142
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Appendix A-2 Page 143
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Appendix A-2 Page 144
Walker Park
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Costs Mason County, WA
Item Item Total Unit Quantity Unit Cost Subtotal
mobilization,
contingency, taxes
& escalation @ 50%
1 RENOVATION
Replace park entry sign $1,000.00 ls 1 $1,000.00 $1,000.00
Renovate/ replace kiosk $12,000.00 ls 1 $8,000.00 $8,000.00 $4,000.00
Refill playground wood chips $2,700.00 cf 30 $60.00 $1,800.00 $900.00
Re-paint shelter $3,000.00 ls 1 $2,000.00 $2,000.00 $1,000.00
Renovate restrooms $90,000.00 ls 1 $60,000.00 $60,000.00 $30,000.00
Reconfigure entrances $45,000.00 ls 1 $30,000.00 $30,000.00 $15,000.00
Eliminate basketball court $11,250.00 ls 1 $7,500.00 $7,500.00 $3,750.00
Utility shack- new roof & siding $12,000.00 ls 1 $8,000.00 $8,000.00 $4,000.00
Replace chain link fence with new barrier $30,000.00 lf 500 $40.00 $20,000.00 $10,000.00
Renovation Subtotal $206,950.00 $138,300.00 $68,650.00
Design & Construction Administration $41,390.00
Renovation Total $248,340.00
2 MASTER PLAN
master plan $35,000.00 ls 1 $35,000.00 $35,000.00
Master Plan Subtotal $35,000.00 $35,000.00 $0.00
Design & Construction Administration $0.00
Master Plan Total $35,000.00
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Appendix A-2 Page 145
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Costs Mason County, WA
Walker Park
Item Item Total unit quantity unit cost subtotal
mobilization,
contingency, taxes
& escalation @ 50%
3 NEW FACILITIES
Interpretive signage $3,750.00 l
s 1 $2,500.00 $2,500.00 $1,250.00
Picnic shelter $90,000.00 ls 1 $60,000.00 $60,000.00 $30,000.00
Beach access-pathway & stairs $11,250.00 ls 1 $7,500.00 $7,500.00 $3,750.00
New Facilities Subtotal $105,000.00 $70,000.00 $35,000.00
Design & Construction Administration $21,000.00
New Facilities Total $126,000.00
4 NEW TRAILS
Project Development Total $409,340.00
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Appendix A-2 Page 146
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Appendix B-1 Page 147
.
PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT/COMMUNITY QUESTIONNAIRE APPENDIX B-1
Results
Number of Responses: 594
Questionnaire available online at http://www.co.mason.wa.us/parks/index.php
From March 27 – June 20, 2012
Many questions offered respondents the option to choose two or three answers for a single
question: these responses are presented as total counts of selection for each item as well as the
percentage of the total respondents to select that item from each list.Muliple answered questions
are marked with an asterisk *
Results are presented in the order that they appeared in the questionnaire.
Question 1:
Do you own real estate in Mason County or are you a Mason County resident? If so, which of the
following best describes your situation?
Answer Count Percentage
Homeowner with permanent year-round residency (1)22 426 72%
Homeowner with weekend or seasonal use (2) 23 4%
Renting a residence (3) 48 8%
Other 22 4%
No answer/Non Completed 75 13%
Nearly all of the respondents are year-round residents of Mason County.
Based on 2010 Census data, the responses under-represent renters (22.5 percent of occupied
households).
“Other” responses included youth who live with their parents as well as a number of regular visitors
and a small number of people who work in Mason County
22 Number in parentheses represents the order of the questions in the survey e.g. “Homeowner” is question #1.
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Appendix B-1 Page 148
Question 2:
What is your age?
Answer Count Percentage Census 2010
Ages 10-14 8 1% 6%
Ages 15-19 31 5% 6%
Ages 20-24 9 2% 5%
Ages 25-34 53 9% 11%
Ages 35-44 102 17% 11%
Ages 45-54 104 18% 15%
Ages 55-64 118 20% 16%
Ages 65-74 96 16% 11%
Ages 75+ 31 5% 8%
No answer 42 7% N/A
The age profile of respondents is similar to the Census 2010 percentages but with slightly higher
percentages of adults (which is common in this type of questionnaire).
The number of respondents under 25 is impressive for a park and recreation questionnaire, as this
group is very difficult to reach.
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Appendix B-1 Page 149
Question 3:
Other than yourself, how many persons living in your household are:
Answer Number of Responses Percentage
Under Age 10 119 20%
Ages 10-14 104 18%
Ages 15-19 93 16%
Ages 20-24 40 7%
Ages 25-34 76 13%
Ages 35-44 111 19%
Ages 45-54 100 17%
Ages 55-64 125 21%
Ages 65-73 86 14%
Ages 75+ 34 6%
The number of household members reported results in an average household size of 2.89 people per
respondent household, very close to the average family size in the 2010 Census data (2.87) and
slightly higher than the average household size in the census (2.45).
224 (38%) of respondents indicated at least one household member under 20. This is almost exactly
the number of families with related children fewer than 18 reported in the 2010 Census (38.8%).
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Appendix B-1 Page 150
Question 4:
What community do you live in?
Answer Count Percentage
Allyn 27 5%
Arcadia 18 3%
Belfair 60 10%
Dayton 13 2%
Grapeview 22 4%
Hoodsport 19 3%
Kamilche 9 2%
Lilliwaup 4 1%
Matlock 1 0%
Shelton 251 42%
Tahuya 26 4%
Union 13 2%
Victor 3 1%
Other 83 14%
No answer/Non completed 45 11%
The responses can also be broken down roughly into two areas of the County, with a northern area
including Allyn, Belfair, Grapeview, Tahuya and Victor. The southern area would include the
remaining indicated communities.
Other responses include small communities inside of Mason County and some nearby cities and towns.
A full list is appended to this summary.
Based on 2010 data for Census Designated Places (CDPs) within Mason County approximately 37% of
residents live in the northern portion of the County and 63% live in the south.
Question 5:
What is your gender?
Answer Count Percentage
Female 284 48%
Male 273 46%
No answer/Non completed 37 6%
An even split in gender speaks to good representation of the results and effective outreach.
Survey efforts typically skew heavily toward females.
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Appendix B-1 Page 151
Question 6: *
Which of the following benefits of parks, recreation and open space are most important to
you? Choose your two most important benefits.
Answer Count Percentage
Provide opportunities to enjoy nature/outdoors
(1)23 423 71%
Improve health and wellness (2) 164 28%
Protect our natural environment (3) 150 25%
Promote Mason County as a recreation destination
(6) 132 22%
Enhance community image and sense of place (5) 96 16%
Protect historic and cultural sites (4) 49 8%
Over 70% of respondents indicated that providing opportunities to enjoy nature and the outdoors was
among their top priorities.
The next four responses are closely clustered; considered a second tier of importance.
Protecting historic and cultural sites was selected by the smallest number of respondents.
Breaking down the respondents by age groups revealed essentially the same distribution of responses.
Question 6: By Geographic Area North South Other
Provide opportunities to enjoy nature/outdoors 64% 74% 73%
Improve health and wellness 26% 31% 17%
Protect our natural environment 33% 23% 22%
Protect historic and cultural sites 28% 19% 29%
Enhance community image and sense of place 14% 17% 14%
Promote Mason County as a recreation destination 7% 9% 10%
When looking at this question across the two geographic areas, the order and grouping of responses stays
essentially the same.
Protecting the natural environment and historic and cultural sites appear to be more important to
respondents from the north end of Mason County.
Opportunities to enjoy nature/outdoors and improving health and wellness were more popular in the
south.
Respondents from “Other” communities were less interested in improving health and wellness than
those who were identified as living in either the north or south communities.
23 Number in parentheses represents the order of the questions in the survey e.g. “enjoy nature” is question #1.
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Appendix B-1 Page 152
Question 7:
How would you rate your overall satisfaction with the level of park, open space and facility
maintenance in Mason County?
Answer Count Percentage
Unsatisfied (1) 27 5%
Unsatisfied – Neutral (2) 62 10%
Neutral (3) 185 31%
Neutral – Very Satisfied (4) 169 28%
Very Satisfied (5) 71 12%
Don't know (6) 20 3%
No answer/Non completed 60 10%
While the largest group of responses was neutral about the current level of maintenance, the opinion
of respondents is generally positive, with 40% on the satisfied side of neutral.
Relatively few (15% total) were on the negative side of the scale.
Responses were essentially the same across the north and south of the County.
Question 8:
What additional park and recreation facilities are needed in Mason County?
Answer Count Percentage
Trails (for cycling, walking, hiking) (4) 318 54%
Water access facilities (boat ramps, piers, beaches, etc.)
(5) 224 38%
Basic park features (play areas, picnic areas, etc.) (2) 184 31%
Competitive sport facilities (fields, courts, etc.) (1) 177 30%
Natural areas (3) 153 26%
Trails were the most needed facility indicated across the County.
Across the US, trails are the most universally desired recreation facility.
The remaining choices were all selected but with a slightly different emphases in the north and south
communities.
Responses were similar to 2006 citizen input results.
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Appendix B-1 Page 153
Question 8: By Geographic Area North South Other
Trails (for cycling, walking, hiking) 62% 51% 53%
Water access facilities
(boat ramps, piers, beaches, etc.) 48% 35% 35%
Basic park features (play areas, picnic areas, etc.) 28% 33% 29%
Competitive sport facilities (fields, courts, etc.) 23% 32% 39%
Natural areas 33% 25% 19%
Trails, water access and natural areas were indicated more often by residents living in north County
communities.
Basic park features and competitive sport facilities were indicated more frequently in the southern
communities.
Breaking down the respondents by age groups revealed essentially the same distribution of responses.
This question included a small assortment of additional facilities and was added to the questionnaire
based on expressed community interest, to allow respondents to express support.
Over 30 percent of respondents indicated that some shooting facility (the type of facility is discussed
in question 9a) or a water spray park should be added to the park system.
Just over 20% indicated an off-leash dog park would be a good addition.
Question 9 also allowed for listing of “other” responses which are listed and a complete list is
appended to this summary. The responses were varied but included a large number of specific trail
types (mountain bike, dirt trails, walking/biking).
Question 9:
Which, if any, of the following special facilities should be added to the Mason County park
system?
Answer Count Percentage
Shooting / archery range (2) 202 34%
Water spray park for children (4) 176 30%
Off-leash dog park (3) 129 22%
Skateboard/BMX park or facility (1) 78 13%
Other 120 20%
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Appendix B-1 Page 154
To simplify this broad list of open-ended responses, a “word cloud” has been created, visualizing each
word in the responses with the size of the word proportional to the number of times it was mentioned
across responses. This “word cloud” allows for a quick look at the most significant terms.
Question 9 “Other” Responses (Appendix B list of written responses)
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Appendix B-1 Page 155
Nearly all (171 out of 202) of the respondents that indicated a Shooting/Archery Range should be
added to the system (question 9) followed up with an answer to this question.
The most frequently requested type of shooting facility by respondents is an out door range with many
respondents indicating multiple uses from long guns to pistols and archery.
The full list of 171 responses is appended to this summary.
To simplify this list of open ended responses, a “word cloud” has been created visualizing each word
from the responses.
Question 9a:
What type of shooting / archery range would you like to see added to the Mason County park
system?
Answer Count Percentage
Answer 171 29%
No answer 423 71%
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Appendix B-1 Page 156
Question 10: *
What type(s) of water access are you most likely to use?
Answer Count Percentage
Beach (5) 245 41%
A place to play and cool off in the water (6) 201 34%
Boat ramp (1) 166 28%
Fishing/crabbing pier (3) 90 15%
Shellfish harvesting site (4) 78 13%
Deep water for swimming (7) 77 13%
Hand launch site for small boats (2) 67 11%
Water access for people (beach, a place to cool off) was the most popular response. 75% in top -two
indicates that water access to pools and beaches are important.
The high interest in use of water access sites reflects what was also stated in 2006 as of public
importance.
Using water access for fishing, crabbing and deep water for swimming was indicated as equal in value.
Nearly 30% of respondents indicated that they were likely to use boater access by use of a ramp
launch.
Question 11: *
What are the primary reasons to develop more trails in Mason County?
Answer (# choices) Count Percentage
Exercise (4) 251 42%
Recreation (5) 246 41%
Experience nature (2) 238 40%
Increase non-motorized transportation options
(1) 116 20%
Improve safe-routes for children to schools (3) 63 11%
No additional trails are needed (6) 40 7%
Nearly all respondents (93%) indicated reasons to develop more trails in Mason County (exercise.
Recreation and to experience nature)
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Appendix B-1 Page 157
Question 12: *
What type of trails/pathways should have the highest priority in Mason County?
Answer Count Percentage
Paved trails for walking, biking, etc. (5) 211 36%
Nature trails (2) 207 35%
Trails that link with other existing trails (6) 132 22%
Trail corridors that link local communities with regional destinations (1) 127 21%
Trails that extend long distances (5+ miles) (3) 123 21%
Exercise trails (4) 127 21%
This question (Q-12) follows up question 11 and provides more specificity about the type of trails
needed.
Paved trails and nature trails are the top two types of trails needed.
The remaining types of trails were tied.
Looking at the geographic distribution of responses, long trails were more popular in the north (28% to
20%) and exercise trails were more popular in the south (24% to 12%).
Question 13:
Which of the following proposed or planned trails is most important to you?
Answer Count Percentage
Shelton to Belfair Trail (1)24 106 18%
Shelton to MCRA Park Trail (7) 93 16%
North Bay Trail - Allyn to tip of Case Inlet (2) 52 9%
Mason Lake Park to Twanoh State Park (4) 45 8%
Kennedy Creek Salmon Trail Extension (3) 43 7%
Camp Govey Trail (6) 28 5%
Menard’s Landing Launch & Day Use Area to Harvey
Rendsland Park Trail (5) 17 3%
Other 31 5%
No answer/Non completed 179 31%
24 Number in parentheses represents the order of list in questionnaire e.g. “Shelton to Belfair” is trail #1.
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Appendix B-1 Page 158
Question 13 asked about specific trails that have been identified on a general basis throughout Mason
County. Those listed may not be representative of all options or desires by the public. The answers
provided may not have recognized where the public does want their trails or that long trails are not
desired trails. The percentage of responses is very close in count and percentages but do provide
some insight into route desires.
Across all respondents, the Shelton to Belfair Trail and the Shelton to MCRA Park Trail were the most
popular planned or proposed trails.
Respondents from the north and south of Mason County responded very differently to this question.
Question 13
by Geographic Area North South Other No
Answer
Grand
Total
Shelton to Belfair Trail 20% 19% 17% 9% 18%
Shelton to MCRA Park Trail 1% 25% 8% 4% 16%
North Bay Trail - Allyn to tip of Case Inlet 29% 2% 6% 0% 9%
Mason Lake Park to Twanoh State Park 15% 5% 7% 0% 8%
Kennedy Creek Salmon Trail Extension 2% 9% 12% 2% 7%
Camp Govey Trail 0% 8% 2% 0% 5%
Menard’s Landing Launch & Day Use Area to
Harvey Rendsland Park Trail 11% 0% 1% 0% 3%
Other 3% 7% 6% 2% 5%
(blank) 19% 25% 40% 82% 30%
Respondents from the north part of the County divided their interest amongst several trails.
Northern residents were most interested in the North Bay Trail.
Other trails that were more important in the north than in the south were: Mason Lake Park to
Twanoh State Park and Menard’s Landing Launch & Day Use Area to Harvey Rendsland Park Trail.
The Shelton to Belfair trail was equally popular with respondents from the north and south. Unify the
County with a path is a priority.
In addition, the Shelton to MCRA Park Trail was much more popular with respondents from the south
end of the County and connecting Shelton and Belfair equally important.
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Appendix B-1 Page 159
Question 14: *
If you seldom use or do not use Mason County parks or facilities, what are your reasons?
Answer Count Percentage
Don’t know what’s available (8)25 123 21%
Lack of facilities (3) 121 20%
Don’t know where they are (7) 94 16%
Too far away; not conveniently located (5) 83 14%
Feel unsafe (2) 48 8%
Not interested/No time (1) 43 7%
Poorly maintained (4) 34 6%
Too crowded (9) 19 3%
Do not have transportation (6) 7 1%
The top answers: lack of knowledge, lack of facilities and not knowing park locations paints a clear
picture of why people are not using Mason County parks.
The typical top answer in other communities is “not interested/no time” which falls in the bottom tier
of responses in Mason County indicating a high level of interest which differs from surveys in other
communities.
Maintenance, crowding, safety and transportation do not appear to be significant issues for
respondents.
Many ideas were offered that provide insight into how the County can improve the system or specific
facilities.
This question was asked in an open-ended format, allowing any response to be written in.
45% of respondents took this opportunity to suggest anything that was important to them. It is not
uncommon for respondents to skip this type of question if they do not have a specific idea.
The full list of responses is appended to this report.
To simplify this list of open-ended responses, a word cloud has been created visualizing each word
from the responses.
Trails once again rises to the top of specific mentions (similar to question 9).
Other frequently mentioned words with some significance (parks, and county come up in many
different ways) include: fields, kids/children, access and maintenance.
25 Number in parentheses represents the order of the questions in the survey e.g. “No time” is question #1.
Question 15:
If you could improve one thing about County parks, what would it be?
Answer Count Percentage
Answer 266 45%
No answer 328 55%
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Appendix B-1 Page 160
Question 15 “Word Cloud” of Open-ended Responses
Question 16: *
What activities have you done in the past 2 years? Please check the box that most closely
represents how often you participate at any location, when the activity is in season.
Question 17: *
Check the 5 activities you would like to do most. Assume you have the time, money, and
transportation to do whichever 5 activities you want.
The results of questions 16 and 17 are presented together to show the relationship between the
responses. The first column is an average number of times the average respondent participates in the
activity in a year, calculated by weighting the responses to question 16, showing the magnitude of
participation. The second column is the ranked order of these activities based on the question 16
responses (current participation) and the third is the ranked order based on responses to question 17
(desired or preferred participation). The final column indicates the movement in rank order from
question 16 to question 17, the movement on these lists gives a rough idea of how much mor e or less
people would like to be doing the activity.
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Appendix B-1 Page 161
Walking for pleasure is the top activity in Mason County (both currently and preferred) this is almost
always the top response in recreation questionnaires.
Gardening is a typically popular result but ranks higher here than in most communities.
Shooting sports and hunting rank higher compared to other communities.
While skateboarding ranks lowest on this list, the number of respondents within the typical age range
(under 14) is also low.
A cluster of activities that are highly desired or have a positive shift in rank involve enjoying the
outdoors (which is consistent with other responses) including: Fishing, Boating, Hiking and Shooting
sports
Many of the desired activities also relate to paths and trails: walking (which is the top preferred
activity as well), biking, horseback, hiking, bird watching etc .
Camping and Canoeing/Kayaking do not rank highly, but have a big positive shift in ranking indicating
that respondents would like to do more of these activities.
Respondent interest in canoeing, kayaking and boating reflects previous answers indicating a high
need for water access sites.
Respondent interest in canoeing and kayaking and boating reflects previous answers indica ting a high
need for water access sites.
Question 16 and 17, Sorted by Current Participation (Q16)
Results
Average
Participation
(Annual)
Q16 Rank
(current)
Q17 Rank
(desired)
Shift in
Rank
Walking for Pleasure 30.31 1 1 0
Gardening 23.22 2 6 -4
Dog Walking/Dog Park 14.09 3 11 -8
Bird Watching/Feeding 12.24 4 14 -10
Jogging/Running 10.02 5 17 -12
Shooting Sports
(Archery, rifle, pistol) 9.08 6 4 2
Fishing 6.96 7 3 4
Boating (Power) 6.76 8 8 0
Swimming (Beach, River) 6.28 9 12 -3
Hiking/Backpacking 6.26 10 6 4
Playground (Visit/Play) 6.25 11 18 -7
Bicycling for Pleasure 6.11 12 5 7
Baseball 5.97 13 19 -6
Swimming (Pool) 5.81 14 13 1
Soccer 5.13 15 22 -7
Hunting 4.74 16 15 1
Picnicking 3.96 17 10 7
Softball 3.83 16 15 1
Camping (Tent/RV) 3.66 19 2 17
Basketball 3.19 20 26 -6
Bicycling (Mountain) 3.17 21 19 2
Bicycling
(Commute/Road) 3.15 22 25 -3
Dirt Bike/ATV/ORV Riding 2.84 23 16 7
Canoeing/Kayaking 2.77 24 9 15
Bicycling (BMX) 2.53 25 27 -2
Football 2.43 26 27 -1
Horseback Riding 2.35 27 23 4
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Appendix B-1 Page 162
A cluster of activities that are highly desired or have a positive shift in rank involve enjoying the
outdoors (which is consistent with other responses) including: Fishing, Boating, Hiking and
Shooting sports
Many of the desired activities also relate to paths and trails: walking (which is the top preferred
activity as well), biking, horseback, hiking, bird watching etc .
Camping and Canoeing/Kayaking do not rank highly, but have a big positive s hift in ranking
indicating that respondents would like to do more of these activities.
Respondent interest in canoeing, kayaking and boating reflects previous answers indicating a high
need for water access sites.
Respondent interest in canoeing and kayaking and boating reflects previous answers indicating a
high need for water access sites.
Question 16 and 17, Sorted by Desired Participation (Q17)
Results
Average
Participation
(Annual)
Q16 Rank
(current)
Q17 Rank
(desired)
Shift in
Rank
Walking for Pleasure 30.31 1 1 0
Camping (Tent/RV) 3.66 19 2 17
Fishing 6.96 7 3 4
Shooting Sports
(Archery, rifle, pistol) 9.08 6 4 2
Bicycling for Pleasure 6.11 12 5 7
Gardening 23.22 2 6 -4
Hiking/Backpacking 6.26 10 6 4
Boating (Power) 6.76 8 8 0
Canoeing/Kayaking 2.77 24 9 15
Picnicking 3.96 17 10 7
Dog Walking/Dog Park 14.09 3 11 -8
Swimming (Beach, River) 6.28 9 12 -3
Swimming (Pool) 5.81 14 13 1
Bird Watching/Feeding 12.24 4 14 -10
Hunting 4.74 16 15 1
Dirt Bike/ATV/ORV Riding 2.84 23 16 7
Jogging/Running 10.02 5 17 -12
Playground (Visit/Play) 6.25 11 18 -7
Baseball 5.97 13 19 -6
Bicycling (Mountain) 3.17 21 19 2
Softball 3.83 18 21 -3
Soccer 5.13 15 22 -7
Horseback Riding 2.35 27 23 4
Bicycling (Commute/Road) 3.15 22 25 -3
Basketball 3.19 20 26 -6
Bicycling (BMX) 2.53 25 27 -2
Football 2.43 26 27 -1
Skateboarding 1.17 28 29 -1
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Appendix B-1 Page 163
Question 18:
If you had $100 to spend on parks and recreation in Mason County, how would you allocate it
amongst the following functions (The number of responses to this question is 473)
Function Average Allocation
Acquisition or development of walking and biking trails and bike routes $21
Improvements/maintenance of existing parks and playgrounds $20
Development of waterfront parks to improve water access $15
Acquisition of new park land or natural areas $12
Development of new outdoor parks and recreation facilities (i.e. playgrounds,
shelters, etc.) $10
Construction of new athletic facilities (i.e. fields, courts, etc.) $8
Other $14
This question allowed respondents to indicate a dollar amount to allocate across various spending
categories, providing insight into the priorities.
The largest average allocations were for acquisition or development of trails and improvements to
maintaining of existing parks and playgrounds.
Development of waterfront parks in at #3 and acquisition of new park land or natural areas formed a
second tier.
Construction of new facilities was the lowest average allocation.
New Park
Acquisition,
$12.00
Improve/Maintain
Existing Parks &
Playgrounds
$20.00
Development of
Waterfront Parks
to Improve Water
Access $15,00
New Athletic
Facilities, $8.00
Walking/Bike
Trails/ Routes
Acquire &
Develop
$21.00
New Deveopment
of Parks &
Facilities,
$10.00
Other, $14.00
How would you spend $100.00 on Parks?
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Appendix B-1 Page 164
“Other” responses included many of the special facilities noted elsewhere in the questionnaire
including:
◆ Shooting facility
◆ Trails/outdoor activities
◆ Pool
◆ Restrooms
A full list is appended to this summary on CD
To simplify this list of open-ended responses, a word cloud has been created visualizing each word
from the responses
111 respondents provided contact information indicating they would like to volunteer. This information
has been provided to Mason County for follow-up efforts.
Question 18a:
Please describe your "Other" response here:
Answer Count Percentage
Answer 92 15.49%
No answer 502 84.51%
Non completed 0 0
Question 19 [Other]:
Would you be willing to volunteer to enhance park and recreation in Mason County? If yes,
please provide your name and contact information. (This information they provided will be
kept separate from responses)
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Appendix B-1 Page 165
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Appendix B-1 Page 166
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Appendix B-2 Page 167
RCO LEVEL OF SERVICE SUMMARY
APPENDIX B-2
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Appendix B-2 Page 168
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Appendix B-3 Page 169
PARKS AND TRAILS ADVISORY BOARD
MEETING MINUTES
November 8, 2012 – 6:00 P.M.
MCRA Park
Shelton, WA 98584
CALL TO ORDER AND ATTENDANCE
Meeting called to order at 6:10
Staff Present: John Keates. Members present: Andrew Kinney, Susan Baker, Linda Woytowich, Monty
Ritter. Members absent: Frank Benavente, Michael Siptroth, Kendy Meyer, Julie Henning. Consultant:
Arvilla Ohlde.
WELCOME AND INTRODUCTIONS
None
MINUTES
Motion was made by Monte Ritter to accept the August 2012 meeting minutes as presented. Motion was
seconded by Andrew Kinney. The motion passed 4 – 0.
AGENDA
A motion was made by Andrew Kinney to accept the agenda as presented. Monte Ritter seconded the
motion. The motion passed 4 -0.
INFORMATION AGENDA
The contents of the information agenda were reviewed and there were no questions or concerns.
BUSINESS AGENDA
Parks Plan Update: The latest draft of the parks plan update was presented by Arvilla Ohlde. The
Citizens Advisory Committee has been meeting monthly since early 2012 and has provided general
comments and suggestions in getting the park plan to the final draft stage. The Park Board and Arvilla
and Keates reviewed the final draft of the park plan. The parks board had selected suggestions for
changes, but nothing major. Arvilla indicated she would implement the changes that were suggested by
the parks board.
Monte Ritter made a motion to accept the Park Plan draft and forward the plan along to the County
Commissioners for consideration of adoption. Andrew Kinney seconded the motion. The motion passed 4
– 0.
CORRESPONDENCE / GOOD OF THE ORDER
None
ADJOURNMENT
A motion was made by Linda Woytowich to adjourn the meeting. Susan Baker seconded the motion. The
motion passed 4 – 0. The meeting was adjourned at 7:50 pm.
PARK & TRAILS ADVISORY BOARD MINUTES APPENDIX B-3
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Appendix B-3 Page 170
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Appendix C Page 171
MASON COUNTY ADOPTING RESOLUTION APPENDIX B-4
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Appendix B-3 Page 172
Mason County Parks & Trails Comprehensive Plan Appendix B-3 Page 173
CD-PUBLIC QUESTIONNAIRE/WORKSHOP NOTES APPENDIX C