Title
RCO Grant Applications Letters of Support
Recommended Action
Move to authorize the Chair to prepare letters of support for the 2026 park grant applications.
Report
Issue:
The Olympia Parks, Arts and Recreation Department (OPARD) is requesting letters of support from PRAC for three grant applications.
Staff Contact:
Sarah Giannobile, Associate Parks Planner, 360.753.8020
Tammy LeDoux, Parks Finance & Policy Coordinator, 360.753.8053
Presenter(s):
Sarah Giannobile, Associate Parks Planner
Tammy LeDoux, Parks Finance & Policy Coordinator
Background and Analysis:
Every two years the Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office (RCO) opens a variety of grant programs that fund construction of park and recreation facilities in Washington State. These are competitive grant programs and OPARD has been fortunate to be awarded over nine million dollars since 2016.
In 2026, Olympia Parks, Arts & Recreation is applying for the following state grants:
* Rebecca Howard Park Phase 1 - RCO Washington Wildlife and Recreation Program (WWRP), $500,000
* LBA Park Field #3 Renovation - RCO Youth Athletic Fields (YAF), $250,000
* Kettle View Park Improvements - RCO Youth Athletic Fields (YAF), $350,000
Climate Analysis:
Departmental performance metrics related to both parks and art pieces being located within a 1/2 mile of residents encourages fewer vehicle miles for people to access recreation and art amenities in Olympia.
Equity Analysis:
Rebecca Howard Park will be the first park in our system that celebrates and honors our Black and African American community members - past and present. The planning process included a steering committee and Community Design Advocates from the local Black community. The design reflects Olympia's Black culture and shares the stories of local Black and African American community members who shaped and continue to shape Olympia.
Neighborhood/Community Interests (if known):
A steering committee of local Black cultural a...
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