As a supporter of state parks, I urge you to fund Washington State Parks at the staffing levels and for the projects requested by the Parks Commission and the budgets proposed by Gov. Inslee. Please provide $103.9M in capital and $211.1M in operating support for the 2021-2023 two-year budget.
Taken together, the capital budget would provide for:
- development of the new Nisqually State Park.
- improvements to campgrounds, day-use areas, trails and boating facilities across the state.
- restoration of natural resources, cultural and heritage sites.
- improvements to buildings, facilities and ADA compliance.
- infrastructure that includes roads, bridges, parking systems and utilities.
The operating budget would provide for staffing and resources for:
- preventive maintenance and COVID-19 safety measures.
- essential visitor services requested by the public.
- youth programs and partnerships to engage underserved communities.
- protection and restoration of historic, cultural and natural resource sites.
Through these capital and operating investments, state parks will be safer for the public in the near-term, more accessible to communities throughout the state, and better maintained so that future generations can also enjoy their unique natural, cultural and historic resources.