Announcements
The 2026 Parks Legacy Plan update process is moving into its final phase! The Parks, Recreation & Community Services department will finish the update the Parks Legacy Plan over the next few months. The department’s planning work includes updates to the inventory and conditions of parks and equipment, parks programs, a demand & needs analysis, and a new trails section!
Project Milestones
Initial Report to City Council:
April 13th, 2026
Draft Plan delivery:
August 14th, 2026
City Council Study Session:
October 19th, 2026
Final Plan Adoption:
November 2nd, 2026
Background: What does the Parks Legacy Plan do for the City?
Strategic Guide:
The Legacy Plan is a foundation for future strategic planning, decision making and visioning exercises. It serves as a guide for elected officials and City personnel in the provision of park, open space and recreation services. The Legacy Plan is the City of Lakewood’s equivalent to a Parks, Recreation, Open Space, and Trails (PROST+) plan.
Source of Information:
The Legacy Plan provides information on the City’s park, open space and recreation system for elected officials, City personnel, community members and any other interested parties.
Grant Funding Support:
The Legacy Plan is designed to support grant applications; specifically, the plan is designed to meet the planning requirements of the Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office (RCO).
Growth Management Act compliance:
The Legacy Plan complies with Growth Management Act (GMA) requirements and supplements the City’s Comprehensive Plan, specifically RCW 36.70A.020 and Section 3.10.
2026 Lakewood Parks Legacy Plan
Identified Parks System Gaps and Needs
- More access to parks within walking distance
- Better access to special use facilities (ex: water access, dog park, skate park)
- A more connected trail and active transportation system
- Better park maintenance
- Better experience for park users
- More tree canopy cover
Proposed Projects for the Next 6 Years (2027-2032)
- Improvements at Fort Steilacoom Park
- Create a downtown park near Colonial Plaza & Motor Ave
- Feasibility and planning for a downtown community center
- Improvements to public water access
- Trail projects
- Urban forestry projects
- Updates to neighborhood and community parks
- Playground replacements
Implementation Strategies for the Next 6 Years (2027-2032)
- Maintenance strategies, staff capacity, and working with volunteers
- Using partnerships to improve access and park events
- Adding more tree canopy to parks
- Planning for staff capacity and funding for capital projects
- Focusing City resources on priority program areas
- Supporting public art in parks