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.