HomeMy WebLinkAbout09-04-2024 Agenda Parks and Recreation Board Meeting
Agenda Wednesday, September 4th 2024 5:30 pm The Auburn Parks, Arts & Recreation Parks and Recreation Board meeting scheduled for Wednesday September 4th at 5:30 pm will be held virtually and in-person at the Auburn Community & Event Center. To attend the meeting virtually please click the link or enter the meeting ID into the Zoom app or call into the meeting at the phone number listed below.
Join Zoom Meeting: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/84387535519?pwd=cgBENkhc22XgbDwO64UcU9WFSZx3ll.1
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I. Call to Order
II. Minutes
Approve July Minutes
III. Correspondence/Public Input
IV. Old Business
V. New Business
PROS Plan draft from SCJ Alliance
VI. Board Recommendations/Input
VII. Department Report
VIII. Adjournment
AUBURN
Parks, Recreation, Open Space, & Trails Plan
Update
July 2024
City of Auburn Parks, Recreation, Open Space & Trails Plan Update | Overview 2 2
Project Information
Project: Auburn Parks, Recreation, Open Space, & Trails Plan Update
Prepared for: City of Auburn
Reviewing Agency
Jurisdiction: City of Auburn
WA State Recreation & Conservation Office
Project Representative
Prepared by: SCJ Alliance
Contact: Chris Overdorf, ASLA PLA Project Manager & Principal Parks Planner
Project Reference: SCJ #20-000370
Path: N:\Projects\0794 City of Auburn\20-000370 Auburn PROS Plan
City of Auburn Parks, Recreation, Open Space & Trails Plan Update | Overview 4 4
Table of Contents
Introduction ...................................................................................................10
Purpose ...........................................................................................................................................11
Regulatory Requirements ...................................................................................................................12
Process ................................................................................................................................................................14
Inventory & Assessment .........................................................................15
INVENTORY & ASSESSMENT............................................................................................16
Planning Context ........................................................................................................................................17
Physical Context ..........................................................................................................................................17
DEMOGRAPHIC CONTEXT .................................................................................................................19
System Inventory ........................................................................................................................................22
Public Involvement ...................................................................................44
Engagement Goals ...................................................................................................................................45
Public Engagement Plan Overview ...........................................................................................46
Age Range ...................................................................................................................................48
Ethnicity ........................................................................................................................................48
Household Size .........................................................................................................................48
Home Location..........................................................................................................................49
Neighborhood of Residence ............................................................................................49
Frequency .....................................................................................................................................50
Length of Visit ............................................................................................................................50
Season .............................................................................................................................................50
Types of Facilities Used ........................................................................................................51
Recreational Facility Use ........................................................................52
Recreational Facilities Outside Auburn ....................................................................52
City of Auburn Parks, Recreation, Open Space & Trails Plan Update | Overview 5 5
Barriers to Use ...................................................................................................................................53
The City Needs... ...............................................................................................................................54
Demand & Needs .............................................................................................56
Quantifications vs Qualifications ............................................................................................................57
Park Equity & Access .........................................................................................................................................58
The “10-Min Walk” Metric ..............................................................................................................................58
Recreation Trends................................................................................................................................................58
Level-of-Service (LOS) ......................................................................................................................................65
Goals & Objectives ............................................................................................73
Capital Improvement Program ................................................................79
Developing The Capital Improvement Program ......................................................................81
Park Impact Fee Analysis...........................................................................104
Approvals ..............................................................................................................110
Adoption Process ................................................................................................................................................111
Council Resolution ..............................................................................................................................................112
A - Terms & Definitions .................................................................................121
B - Standards & Guidelines .........................................................................123
C - Park Needs & Assessment Survey Comments .......................125
Additional Comments .................................................................................................................143
City of Auburn Parks, Recreation, Open Space & Trails Plan Update | Overview 7 7
The City of Auburn’s Parks, Recreation, and Open Space (PROS) Plan is an ambitious and visionary blueprint designed to elevate the city’s parks and recreation facilities to meet the evolving needs of its vibrant community. This comprehensive plan, which spans from 2024 to 2030, is the result of extensive public engagement, reflecting the community’s collective aspirations for a higher quality of life through enhanced recreational services and access to diverse outdoor opportunities. The PROS Plan outlines a strategic Capital Improvement Program (CIP) that prioritizes both immediate enhancements and long-term projects, ensuring that Auburn’s parks and open spaces continue to be cherished assets for generations to come. It reaffirms the city’s commitment to fostering a healthy, walkable community, promoting environmental stewardship, and creating spaces that inspire connection, well-being, and a sense of place.
To bring this vision to life, the plan is designed with flexibility, allowing for adjustments as community needs evolve, new opportunities arise, and funding sources become available. The city is committed to leveraging a mix of municipal budgets, grants, and the passionate efforts of community volunteers to realize these improvements. Through ongoing review and adaptive management, Auburn aims to create a parks and recreation system that not only meets the current needs of its residents but also anticipates and shapes the future, ensuring that the city remains a dynamic, engaging, and inclusive place to live, work, and play.
Summary
City of Auburn Parks, Recreation, Open Space & Trails Plan Update | Overview 8
PLACEHOLDER FOR COVER LETTER FROM DARYL...
City of Auburn Parks, Recreation, Open Space & Trails Plan Update | Overview 9 | Overview 9City of Auburn Parks, Recreation, Open Space, & Trails Plan
Introduction
City of Auburn Parks, Recreation, Open Space & Trails Plan Update | Overview 10
Welcome to the City of Auburn’s Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Plan Update (PROS Plan). This document fulfills the requirements of the Growth Management Act (GMA), ensuring the City’s eligibility for funding from the Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office (RCO) and other sources over the next six to ten years. It provides a comprehensive overview of Auburn’s parks, recreation areas, open spaces, and non-motorized trails. The PROS Plan incorporates public input gathered through surveys, outreach, and online tools to assess recreational needs and preferences. It evaluates the current conditions of the city’s parks and open spaces, establishing a vision and goals based on community demand. A critical component of this document is the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP). Upon approval, the CIP will finalize the PROS Plan by recommending enhancements aimed at improving services for Auburn residents over the next six years and beyond. These recommendations are strategically linked to potential grant funding sources, guiding the City in prioritizing projects that align with the community’s desired quality of life.
Purpose
In Washington State, communities like Auburn rely on Parks, Recreation, and Open Space (PROS) Plans to shape the future of their outdoor spaces, serving as vital roadmaps for growth, development, and preservation. These plans are not just state mandates; they are essential tools for balancing growth with environmental protection and enhancing residents’ quality of life. For Auburn, the PROS Plan is crucial for complying with the Growth Management Act (GMA), which ensures thoughtful planning to accommodate growth while protecting the environment and enhancing residents’ quality of life. However, the PROS Plan goes beyond mere compliance. It embodies a vision and a commitment to community engagement, providing a platform for residents to express their needs and desires for parks, trails, and recreational areas. Through surveys, outreach, and online tools, the city gathers valuable input to ensure the plan reflects the diverse interests and aspirations of its people. At its core, the PROS Plan is about dreaming big while remaining practical. It sets ambitious goals for improving access to recreational amenities, enhancing
City of Auburn Parks, Recreation, Open Space & Trails Plan Update | Overview 11
existing facilities, and expanding green spaces. These goals are not just lofty ideals; they are actionable steps toward creating a community where residents can live, work, and play. Within the PROS Plan is the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP), a strategic blueprint for turning vision into action. The CIP outlines specific projects and improvements designed to enhance services for Auburn’s residents over the next six years and beyond. These projects are carefully aligned with the community’s goals and values, ensuring that every dollar spent brings tangible benefits. In essence, the PROS Plan is Auburn’s promise to its residents: a commitment to vibrant parks, thriving green spaces, and abundant opportunities for outdoor adventure. It is a testament to the city’s dedication to building a sustainable future where nature and community flourish together.
Regulatory
Requirements
Growth Management Act
Requirements
RCW 36.70A.140, known as the Growth Management Act (GMA), is crucial to all Comprehensive Parks, Recreation, and Open Space (PROS) Plans in Washington State. This law mandates that local governments, such as cities and counties, plan for growth through comprehensive plans that consider natural resources, economic development, and residents’ quality of life.
Specifically, the GMA requires local governments to adopt comprehensive plans that address various aspects, including parks and recreation. Additionally, it outlines the requirements for a Capital Facilities Plan (CIP) that includes:
An inventory of existing public facilities, including green spaces.
Forecasts for future needs of these facilities.
Plans for expanding or building new facilities.
A six-year funding plan with identified public funding sources.
A requirement to reassess plans if funding falls short, ensuring all elements are coordinated. Parks and recreation facilities are integral to the CIP.
The Parks and Recreation element of the GMA further specifies that the plan should include:
Estimates of park and recreation demand for at least ten years.
An evaluation of existing facilities and service needs.
Exploration of opportunities for regional collaboration on park and recreation services.
In the context of a PROS Plan, RCW 36.70A.140 provides the legal framework for integrating parks, recreation, and open space considerations into overall planning. The PROS Plan becomes a specific component of the broader comprehensive plan, focusing on developing, maintaining, and enhancing these aspects within the community. By adhering to RCW 36.70A.140, cities like Auburn ensure their PROS Plans align with state goals for sustainable growth and development. Compliance with the GMA is essential for Auburn to access state funding and effectively manage its parks, recreation, and open spaces.
Washington Recreation and
Conservation Office (RCO)
Requirements
The Recreation and Conservation Office (RCO) promotes outdoor recreation and conservation in Washington State through grants and technical assistance, ensuring that all residents have access to well-maintained parks and protected natural spaces. However, their role extends beyond funding.
1. The RCO recognizes the importance of well-planned park systems, which not only serve local communities but also contribute to a statewide network of parks and open spaces. A well-implemented Parks, Recreation, and Open Space (PROS) Plan acts as a roadmap for a city’s park system, communicating the current state of parks, recreation facilities, budgeting, and programs to the RCO. It identifies gaps in current and future service levels and develops an actionable vision for the community’s future. This roadmap assures the RCO that grant money will be used effectively to meet community needs aligned with statewide goals.
The RCO requires a PROS Plan, updated every six years, to comply with the Growth Management Act (GMA). These plans should cover the following key elements:
2. Existing Conditions & Baseline Analysis: Establishes the groundwork by reviewing past plans, demographics, and park system trends.
City of Auburn Parks, Recreation, Open Space & Trails Plan Update | Overview 12
3. Community & Systems Needs Assessment: Identifies gaps and needs in park infrastructure, assesses facility conditions, and sets service level benchmarks.
4. Priorities, Strategies, and Implementation Plan: Compiles the analyses and proposes recommendations. It prioritizes goals, outlines implementation strategies, and establishes a potential capital improvement plan for park development.
By following RCO’s guidelines and creating a strong PROS Plan, Auburn can secure grant funding, improve its park system, and enhance the quality of life for its residents. To ensure compliance with RCO’s framework and alignment with the GMA, communities must submit the PROS Plan along with the RCO’s Self-Certification Form (see Approvals Section). By adhering to this framework, Washington communities can develop a robust vision for their parks and recreation systems and strengthen their grant applications by demonstrating clear vision and strategic priorities. More information can be found in RCO’s Manual 2: Planning Guidelines (January 2024), available at:
https://rco.wa.gov/recreation-and-conservation-office-grants/grant-manuals/.
City of Auburn
Requirements
The policy framework and proposed improvements outlined in this Parks, Recreation, and Open Space (PROS) Plan fully comply with the Auburn City Code (Ordinance 6940, April 2024) and the City’s Comprehensive Plan. These documents establish the procedures for adopting or amending the PROS Plan and detail the formal process for approving official actions like this plan’s adoption (Auburn City Code, Chapter 2.06). The City of Auburn adheres to a well-defined regulatory process for approving public resolutions, ensuring public participation, transparency, and adherence to legal and procedural requirements (Auburn City Code, Chapter 14.22). Here’s a breakdown of the typical steps involved:
1. Drafting the Resolution:
The initial draft resolution is prepared by city staff, council members, or at the Mayor’s or City Council’s request (Auburn City Code, Section 14.22.020). This draft outlines the purpose, background information, and proposed actions for adopting the PROS Plan (Auburn City Code, Section 14.22.030).
The draft undergoes internal review by relevant departments like legal and finance for accuracy and completeness, incorporating any necessary feedback (Auburn City Code, Section 14.22.040).
2. Committee Review and Public
Notice:
The resolution may be reviewed by a relevant City Council committee or commission, such as the Parks & Recreation Board or Planning Commission (Auburn City Code, Section 14.22.050). Public notice is then provided, typically through the city’s website, bulletin boards, and other public spaces (Auburn City Code, Section 14.22.060). This notice informs residents about the resolution and the upcoming City Council meeting where it will be discussed.
3. City Council Meetings and
Public Input:
During a City Council meeting, the resolution is introduced for its first reading, allowing council members and the public to hear and discuss it without taking formal action (Auburn City Code, Section 14.22.070). Public comment is encouraged, and residents can provide input during the meeting or through written submissions (Auburn City Code, Section 14.22.080).
At a subsequent City Council meeting, the resolution undergoes a second reading. Here, council members discuss it in detail, consider public comments, and may propose amendments (Auburn City Code, Section 14.22.090).
4. Voting and Approval:
Following the discussion, the City Council votes on the resolution, typically requiring a majority vote for it to pass (Auburn City Code, Section 14.22.100). If amendments are made, a revised resolution may be put to a vote.
If approved by the City Council, the resolution is forwarded to the Mayor for final approval (Auburn City Code, Section 14.22.110). The Mayor may sign the resolution into effect or veto it (Auburn City Code, Section 14.22.120). In case of a veto, the City Council may override it with a super-majority vote (Auburn City Code, Section 14.22.130).
There are five objectives to be achieved through the production of this plan:
1. Provide guidance for the Parks and Recreation Department
City of Auburn Parks, Recreation, Open Space & Trails Plan Update | Overview 13
2. Provide input to the citywide Capital Facilities Plan (CFP)3. Maintain funding eligibility for grants4. Comply with the Growth Management Act5. Develop Implementation & Funding Strategy6. Prioritize and find funding sources to maintain the current level of services that the Parks Department provides prior to taking on new facilities
Process
While RCO has no specific requirements for the number of pages, number of chapters, or format for comprehensive parks plans, it is expected that the plan will capture the needs of the organization and, more importantly, the quality of life desired by the community.
The process used to develop the City of Auburn’s Park’s PROS Plan Update is modeled after six minimum elements noted in RCO Manual 2: Planning Policies & Guidelines. Whether this plan supports a grant application for a capital project (facility development and land acquisition) or a non-capital project (architectural, engineering, planning, etc.,) the organization of this plan and the process followed is purposefully designed to capture the elements expected by RCO.
Aside from this, the first section, the project overview, this plan is structured around six primary sections or elements needed for an effective comprehensive parks plan:
Existing Conditions
(Systems Inventory)
A description of the planning or service area, including the physical setting, the community profile, other mutually supportive planning efforts, and a summary of conditions of the complete inventory of each existing outdoor recreation asset or program.
Public Involvement
A description of how the planning process gave the public ample opportunity to be involved in plan development and adoption.
Demand & Needs Analysis
An analysis that takes your inventory work and public involvement into consideration, balancing public demand with your organization’s current capacity and future expectations.
Goals and Objectives
The plan must support the applicant’s park and recreation mission, including the current project, with broad statements of intent, or goals that capture a community’s desired outdoor recreation resources.
Capital Improvement
Program
A list of the desired capital improvements or capital facility programs of at least 6 years that lists and prioritizes desired land acquisition, development, renovation, and restoration projects.
Approvals
A resolution, ordinance, or other adoption instrument showing formal approval of the plan and planning process by the governing entity.
The process diagram below identifies the priority sections needed to develop a GMA-compliant and RCO-certified PROST plan, however, many steps ran concurrently.
City of Auburn Parks, Recreation, Open Space & Trails Plan Update | Inventory & Assessment 14 | Inventory & Assessment 14City of Auburn Parks, Recreation, Open Space, & Trails Plan
Inventory &
Assessment
City of Auburn Parks, Recreation, Open Space & Trails Plan Update | Inventory & Assessment 15
INVENTORY &
ASSESSMENT
This section aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the current conditions of Auburn’s parks, recreation programs, open space, and trail system. It examines the condition of the City’s parks system, the population served by these parks, and the regional context and planning efforts that shape the system. The City of Auburn manages a diverse range of parks and recreation assets, including 10 neighborhood parks, 14 community parks, 6 parcels of dedicated open space, 13 pocket parks and tot lots, and 16 special use facilities, including a golf course and trail systems. Given Auburn’s current population of 82,812 in 2024, this equates to approximately 11.8 acres of parkland per 1,000 residents. This ratio aligns Auburn with other communities across the country, which have a median of 11.2 acres of parkland per 1,000 residents. A more detailed analysis of the composition of Auburn’s parks and recreation system is provided in the Demand & Needs section of this report. The inventory and assessment section, and the information that follows, is divided into four distinct contexts that capture the structure upon which the parks system is a part of.
Physical Context
Demographic Context
Planning Context
Site Evaluations
Tot-Lots
21st Street Playground • Auburndale Park •
Auburndale II (Und) • Ballard Park • Cameron
Park • Cedar Lanes Park • Dorothy Bothell Park
• Dykstra Park • Forest Villa Park • Gaines Park
• Indian Tom Park • Jornada Park • Kersey A •
Kersey B • Lakeland Hills Park • Lea Hill Courts •
Riverpoint Park • Riversands/Trail Run • Rotary
Park • Scootie Brown Park • Shaughnessy Park •
Terminal Park • Village Square
NEIGHBORHOOD PARKS
21st Street Playground • Auburndale Park •
Auburndale II (Und) • Ballard Park • Cameron
Park • Cedar Lanes Park • Dorothy Bothell Park
• Dykstra Park • Forest Villa Park • Gaines Park
• Indian Tom Park • Jornada Park • Kersey A •
Kersey B • Lakeland Hills Park • Lea Hill Courts •
Riverpoint Park • Riversands/Trail Run • Rotary
Park • Scootie Brown Park • Shaughnessy Park •
Terminal Park • Village Square
COMMUNITY PARKS
104th Ave SE (Lower Green River Housing Bend
Property) • Brannan Park • Fulmer Park • Game
Farm Park • Game Farm Wilderness • GSA Park
• Isaac Evans Park • Jacobsen Tree Farm (und.) •
Lea Hill Park • Les Gove Park • Mill Pond Park •
Roegner Park • Sunset Park • Veterans Memorial
Park
OPEN SPACE
Auburn Environmental • Clark Property • Game
Farm Open Space • Golf Course • Lakeland Nature
Area • Mary Olson Farm • West Auburn Lake
SPECIAL USE AREAS
B Street Plaza • Bicentennial Park • Centennial
Viewpoint Park • City Hall Plaza • Clark Plaza •
Community Garden A • Community Garden B
• Environmental Park • Fenster Nature Park •
Fly-in Lion • Mary Olson Farm • Mountain View
Cemetery • Pioneer Cemetery • Plaza Park •
Slaughter Memorial
City of Auburn Parks, Recreation, Open Space & Trails Plan Update | Inventory & Assessment 16
Planning Context
Auburn: A History of
Transformation
The Auburn area has a rich history of human settlement, with indigenous populations being the first inhabitants. Tribal groups such as the Skopamish, Smalhkamish, and Stkamish thrived at the confluence of local rivers, establishing trade routes over the Cascade Mountains, interacting with eastern tribes, and using the waterways for resource gathering and commerce with coastal groups. In the mid-1800s, the first European pioneers arrived in the White River Valley. The following decades, particularly the 1880s, saw the arrival of railroads, which attracted settlers from various regions, including the eastern and Midwestern United States, Europe, and Asia. Early European and Japanese farmers began cultivating the fertile land, leading to bountiful harvests and establishing the White River Valley as a prominent agricultural center. Auburn’s central location between Seattle and Tacoma played a significant role in its development. The construction of a hydroelectric power plant on the upper White River in 1911 provided electricity for Auburn, Seattle, and Tacoma, and powered the Interurban Railway. Additionally, the selection of Auburn by the Northern Pacific Railroad in 1910 as the site for its western freight terminal spurred a population boom, driven by the influx of permanent rail workers in need of housing. World War II had a profound impact on Auburn’s trajectory. The federal government’s wartime relocation of Japanese American citizens to internment camps resulted in the loss of numerous businesses, homes, and farms. Unfortunately, most of these families never returned. Although Auburn remained an agricultural hub for some time, the city began transitioning towards increased industrialization in the post-war period. In the 1960s, the establishment of a Boeing aircraft plant in the city marked a pivotal shift. Efforts to address historical flooding issues, including the construction of Mud Mountain and Howard Hanson Dams by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, further supported Auburn’s transformation from a frontier settlement to a developed industrial center. Auburn’s strategic position within south King County made it a desirable location during the 1990s, a period coinciding with a population surge across the Puget
Sound region. The city’s population, estimated to be around 30,000 in 1990, grew significantly over the next few decades, reaching approximately 76,347 by 2014—a 154.5% increase. However, from around 2014 onward, growth slowed to approximately 11%, marking a significant deceleration from the previous pace. This slowdown during the 2000s can be attributed to a combination of economic and demographic factors. The region faced the aftermath of the dot-com bust and the early 2000s economic recession, which impacted job creation and investment. Additionally, the housing market crisis that culminated in the 2008 financial crash significantly affected real estate development and home purchases, leading to a decrease in population influx. Infrastructure limitations and congestion also played a role, as the city’s capacity to accommodate rapid growth was stretched thin, particularly considering its physical context. Moreover, competition from nearby cities offering more attractive amenities or better economic opportunities may have diverted potential residents and businesses away from Auburn. These factors collectively contributed to a period of slower growth for the city during that decade. Today, Auburn remains an attractive community known for its family-oriented, small-town atmosphere. With more affordable housing compared to most of King County, convenient highway access, and a charming small-town feel, Auburn is poised for continued, stable, and sustainable growth. This growth will increase the demand for quality of life elements that the community expects, including the demand for and access to recreational facilities.
Physical Context
Auburn’s location in the Puget Sound region has profoundly influenced its historical development and future growth. The city’s geography has been central to its evolution, with its proximity to rivers making it an essential transportation hub for both Native Americans and early settlers. The fertile valley attracted cultivation, and railways were later built to transport crops and timber from Auburn to larger cities like Tacoma and Seattle. Today, Auburn is traversed by two major rivers, the White River and the Green River, along with two critical transportation corridors, SR-167 and SR-18. These natural and man-made features divide the city, with a flat valley floor surrounded by steep ascents leading to the West Hill and East Hill. The valley is further segmented by Highway 167 and distinct zoning
City of Auburn Parks, Recreation, Open Space & Trails Plan Update | Inventory & Assessment 17
designations, creating identifiable areas such as Downtown and the Industrial Valley. The Green River is fed by numerous creeks that carve through the East Hill, forming ravines and preserving natural spaces, which in turn limit mobility within this region. East Hill is primarily a residential area with pockets of retail, and it is crossed by major roads like Highway 515 and E James Street. In contrast, West Hill is somewhat isolated from the rest of the city, bounded by the Green River and Highway 516, and further divided by I-5.
Topography
Nestled within the Puget Sound Lowland region of the Pacific Northwest, Auburn is a city shaped by the enduring legacy of ancient glacial epochs and the ongoing influence of geological forces. Positioned between the eastern foothills of the Cascade Range and the shores of Puget Sound, Auburn features a diverse range of terrain types. To the east, the Cascade foothills rise gradually, giving the landscape a gentle undulation that ascends toward the towering peaks of the Cascade Range. These foothills provide a rich tapestry of topographical variety, offering panoramic vistas and numerous recreational opportunities. The city’s landscape is marked by a broad, flat valley bordered by the Green River and Lea Hill to the east, and West Hill to the west. These green slopes define Auburn’s contours, creating natural boundaries within the urban expanse while offering breathtaking views of the Cascade Range and the iconic silhouette of Mount Rainier. To the west, Auburn’s proximity to Puget Sound imparts a maritime character to its climate and geography. Located near the southern edge of the sound, the city benefits from easy access to waterfront areas and the thriving marine ecosystems they support. This maritime influence moderates the climate, resulting in milder winters and cooler summers compared to the more extreme conditions experienced further inland.
Hydrology
Auburn’s intricate network of rivers and creeks holds deep significance for the community, serving a variety of crucial functions and enriching the local landscape. These waterways act as natural drainage systems, contribute to flood mitigation, provide vital habitats for diverse fish and wildlife, offer scenic beauty, hold historical importance, and create opportunities for
recreation. The history of Auburn’s watercourses, particularly the White River, highlights the complex interaction between natural forces and human intervention. Before 1906, the White River flowed through King County, merging with the Green River before emptying into Elliot Bay. However, a significant debris blockage in 1906 altered the river’s course, diverting floodwaters away from King County and redirecting them down the Stuck River into the Puyallup River. To manage this change, a permanent diversion wall was built at Game Farm Park in Auburn, directing the White River to its current path. Today, the White River in southern Auburn serves as a natural boundary, separating the more developed urban core from the rural areas beyond. Historically, the city developed within the river valley, where many of its parks are located. However, with the valley reaching its developmental capacity, urban growth has expanded into newly annexed areas to the west, east, and south. Various water bodies, including the Green River, Mill Creek, Bowman Creek, Olson Creek, Mill Pond, and White Lake, have significantly influenced Auburn’s spatial development. The wetlands along much of Mill Creek have limited extensive urbanization in that area, though some industrial properties have been established. Among Auburn’s water features, White Lake and West Auburn Lake are the only naturally occurring lakes or ponds. West Auburn Lake, acquired by the city within the past decade, offers recreational opportunities within a highly urbanized setting. In contrast, White Lake, located south of Highway 18, remains privately owned and inaccessible to the public, preserving its natural state.
Climate
Nestled within a temperate maritime climate, Auburn experiences a nuanced interplay of meteorological forces, shaping its seasonal identity with distinct variability.
Summer (June to August) brings warmth to the region, with temperatures typically ranging from 75°F to 85°F (24°C to 29°C). While the season is mostly dry, occasional light rainfall may punctuate the otherwise arid conditions.
Autumn (September to November) ushers in cooler temperatures, settling between 60°F and 70°F (15°C to 24°C). During this period, Auburn transitions to a wetter climate, with more frequent showers that cast the familiar Pacific Northwest veil of precipitation over
City of Auburn Parks, Recreation, Open Space & Trails Plan Update | Inventory & Assessment 18
the landscape.
Winter (December to February) sees temperatures dip to an average of 45°F to 50°F (7°C to 10°C). While cold air intrusions can briefly push temperatures below freezing, such occurrences are typically short-lived. Precipitation increases during the winter months, and although snowfall is rare, it occasionally blankets the city. When snow is accompanied by freezing rain, it can significantly impact local traffic.
Spring (March to May) signals a gradual warming, with temperatures rising to a moderate 55°F to 65°F (13°C to 18°C). Intermittent showers persist, remnants of the previous seasons’ precipitation, as the landscape undergoes its annual rejuvenation.
Auburn receives approximately 37 inches (940 mm) of annual precipitation, evenly distributed across the seasons, reflecting its maritime influence. The city’s proximity to the Pacific Ocean helps moderate extreme temperatures, tempering both the summer heat and winter chill.
Auburn’s diverse topography, with its varying elevations and water bodies like the Green River, fosters the development of microclimates within the city. These microclimates create subtle weather patterns and temperature differences, adding richness and complexity to Auburn’s overall climate.
DEMOGRAPHIC CONTEXT
Auburn, Washington, is a vibrant city with a diverse demographic profile. Based on the latest U.S. Census data, here is a detailed breakdown of key demographic aspects:
Population Size & Growth
Auburn is a mid-sized city in King County, Washington, with a population of approximately 90,096 as of July 2023. The city has experienced steady growth, reflecting broader trends in the Seattle metropolitan area. Since 2000, Auburn’s population has increased by 54.4%. With a population density of about 3,046 people per square mile, the city continues to see urban development and residential expansion. In recent years, Auburn’s growth rate has moderated. Between 2020 and 2023, the population grew at an annual rate of about 0.99%. Looking ahead, the growth rate is projected to decelerate to approximately 0.31% annually from 2023 to 2028.
Employment
Auburn’s economy is diverse, with key industries including retail, manufacturing, healthcare, education, and various service sectors. Major employers in the city reflect this diversity. Among them are Boeing, which operates a significant aerospace manufacturing facility in Auburn, employing thousands of workers and playing a central role in the city’s industrial base. Multicare Health System and CHI Franciscan Health are also significant employers, providing a wide range of healthcare services to the region. In addition to these, The Muckleshoot Indian Tribe is a major contributor to the local economy, not only through its government operations but also through its enterprises, such as the Muckleshoot Casino and Muckleshoot Bingo. Auburn School District is another key employer, reflecting the city’s strong focus on education. Many residents of Auburn work within the city, benefiting from the presence of these major employers. However, a significant portion of the population commutes to nearby employment hubs such as Seattle, Tacoma, and Bellevue, which are easily accessible due to Auburn’s strategic location and robust transportation infrastructure, including major highways and rail services. Auburn’s accessibility and central location make it a vital center for both residential living and employment opportunities within the Puget Sound region. The combination of local employment and the city’s position within a broader regional economy enhances Auburn’s role as both a residential community and a significant economic hub.
Race and Ethnicity
Auburn stands out for its notable ethnic and racial diversity, which is somewhat unique compared to other cities in Washington State. According to recent data, the racial composition of Auburn’s population is approximately 59.7% White, 11.6% Asian, 7.3% Black or African American, 2.1% American Indian or Alaska Native, and 2.8% Native Hawaiian or other Pacific Islander. Additionally, 16.5% of the population identifies as Hispanic or Latino. The city’s diversity is further highlighted by the fact that 21.4% of Auburn’s residents are foreign-born, a figure that exceeds the state average. Auburn’s significant Asian and Hispanic or Latino populations are particularly noteworthy. While many cities in Washington have diverse communities,
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Auburn’s proportion of Asian residents stands out, reflecting broader trends in the Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue metropolitan area, yet distinguishing itself from smaller or less urban areas in the state. Moreover, Auburn is home to a significant population of Marshall Islanders, who have migrated to the United States primarily under the Compact of Free Association (COFA). This treaty allows citizens of the Marshall Islands, along with those from Micronesia and Palau, to live and work in the U.S. without visas. Auburn has become a notable center for Marshallese migrants, following Arkansas, which hosts the largest population on the mainland. The migration of Marshallese to the U.S. has been driven by various factors, including economic opportunities and better access to healthcare. Additionally, many Marshallese migrate due to environmental degradation and health issues linked to the legacy of nuclear testing conducted by the United States in the Marshall Islands during the mid-20th century. This has resulted in health concerns such as cancer and other chronic diseases, prompting many to seek better healthcare in the U.S. In Auburn, the Marshallese community has maintained strong cultural ties, frequently gathering in local churches and community events to support one another and preserve their traditions. This tight-knit community aspect is crucial as they navigate the challenges of migration, including language barriers and economic adjustments. Auburn’s demographic diversity is rooted in its historical development as a key agricultural and industrial hub, which has attracted various immigrant communities over the years. This has created a rich cultural fabric that continues to shape the city’s identity today.
Languages
Your description of the linguistic diversity in Auburn is well-crafted. Here’s a refined version that enhances clarity and flow: While English is the primary language spoken in Auburn, with 69.36% of residents speaking it exclusively, the city’s cultural diversity means that a variety of languages can be heard in everyday life. Spanish is the most common non-English language, spoken by 13.28% of the population. Additionally, other languages, including various Slavic languages, contribute to the city’s linguistic landscape.
The Auburn School District reflects this diversity, with over 80 languages spoken in the homes of its students. More than 40% of students use multiple languages in their daily lives. The district’s Multilingual Learner Program is designed to help students develop English language skills while also promoting the preservation of their home languages. Although the exact number of students speaking each language at home is not disclosed due to privacy concerns, the fact that the district’s Multilingual Learners department serves students from over 80 different language backgrounds illustrates the rich tapestry of languages spoken in Auburn. Moreover, the district offers translation services for a variety of languages, including Afrikaans, Burmese, Hmong, Marshallese, Russian, Spanish, and Ukrainian. While this is not an exhaustive list, it highlights some of the prominent languages spoken in the community alongside English. These languages likely represent just a portion of Auburn’s diverse linguistic landscape. However, by examining the languages supported by the school district, we can gain insight into the multilingual character of the city.
Age
Auburn has a diverse age distribution among its population of approximately 90,096 people. The largest age group consists of residents aged 35 to 54, comprising about 27% of the population. This is followed by children and teenagers (ages 5 to 17), who make up roughly 18%. Young adults aged 25 to 34 represent around 15%, while those in the 55 to 64 age bracket account for approximately 12%. The senior population (over 65 years) comprises about 13% of the population, and those aged 18 to 24 constitute around 9%. The youngest segment, children under 5 years old, represents about 7% of Auburn’s population. Recent trends in Auburn’s age distribution have shown relative stability across the different age groups. However, there has been a slight increase in the senior population, mirroring broader national trends of an aging demographic. This shift suggests a growing need for services and amenities that cater to older residents, while also maintaining support for families and younger adults.
GenderAuburn’s gender distribution is close to an even split between males and females, with a slightly higher percentage of males. According to the latest U.S. Census Bureau data, Auburn has approximately 46,922
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males (52.1%) and 43,174 females (47.9%), indicating a clear majority of males over females in the city. This trend is somewhat uncommon in many parts of the United States, where women typically outnumber men.
Income
Auburn’s residents represent a wide range of income levels, reflecting the diverse economic profiles of its neighborhoods and communities. While some areas of Auburn are affluent, others have a higher percentage of lower-income households. The city’s economic structure includes a mix of blue-collar and white-collar workers, contributing to this diversity. As of the most recent data, the median household income in Auburn is approximately $83,881, with a per capita income around $41,440. The city’s poverty rate is 10.7%, and 14.9% of children live below the poverty line. Housing is a significant aspect of the local economy, with the median home value around $462,327. This reflects a community with varied economic experiences, encompassing both substantial earning potential and areas in need of economic support.
Education
Auburn is served by a variety of educational institutions, including both public and private schools. The Auburn School District is a key provider, operating numerous elementary, middle, and high schools, such as Auburn High School, Auburn Riverside High School, and Auburn Mountainview High School, along with various elementary and middle schools spread throughout the city. The district serves a substantial student population, with an enrollment of over 17,000 students. Private education options in Auburn include Valley Christian School, which offers a Christian-centered education from preschool through 12th grade, and Auburn Adventist Academy, a Seventh-day Adventist high school. Additionally, the Muckleshoot Tribal School, managed by the Muckleshoot Indian Tribe, provides education from kindergarten through high school, addressing the specific needs of its tribal community. Green River College is a notable public institution in the area, offering a range of associate degrees, certificates, and transfer programs. Collectively, these educational institutions contribute to the diverse and comprehensive learning environment in Auburn.
Housing
Auburn’s housing market is diverse, featuring a mix of single-family homes, apartments, and affordable housing options. As of mid-2024, the median home price in Auburn is approximately $607,000, reflecting a 5.5% increase over the past year. The market remains highly competitive, with homes typically selling within a week of listing. Rental prices are also significant, with median rents around $1,919 per month. The city supports a range of affordable housing programs through the King County Housing Authority, including Section 8 vouchers and subsidized housing designed for low-income families, seniors, and individuals with disabilities. This varied housing landscape influences Auburn’s parks and recreation system by increasing the demand for accessible and inclusive recreational spaces. The presence of affordable housing communities, such as Burndale Homes and Firwood Circle, which offer on-site services and are located near parks, highlights the importance of maintaining and expanding public recreational facilities. These parks provide essential amenities and green spaces for residents of all income levels, promoting community well-being and environmental sustainability.
Commuters
Auburn is often considered a commuter city due to its strategic location in the Puget Sound region and its proximity to major employment centers such as Seattle, Tacoma, and Bellevue. The city’s population fluctuates during the day as residents commute to jobs in these areas. The average one-way commute time for Auburn residents is approximately 31.6 minutes, covering an average distance of around 10.75 miles. Here’s an overview of key cities to which Auburn residents commonly commute for work and the respective employment opportunities:
1. Tacoma is a major city in the Puget Sound region offering a wide range of employment opportunities across various industries.
2. As a neighboring city, Puyallup provides job options in retail, healthcare, education, and other sectors.
3. Although farther from Auburn, some residents commute to Seattle for jobs in tech, finance, healthcare, and various other industries.
4. Located to the north, Kent offers job opportunities in logistics, manufacturing, and retail.
5. Also north of Auburn, Renton is home to
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companies in aerospace, technology, healthcare, and other industries.
6. To the west, Federal Way has a diverse job market, including opportunities in retail, healthcare, and education.
System Inventory
Auburn takes great pride in its expansive parks system, designed to cater to a variety of recreational interests while preserving the natural beauty of the area. Among the many parks throughout the city, Les Gove Park stands out as a tranquil oasis in downtown Auburn, offering verdant green spaces, meandering pathways, and designated picnic areas, providing a peaceful retreat amid the urban bustle. Game Farm Park, a premier destination for sports enthusiasts and families alike, spans 80 acres and features sports fields for soccer, baseball, and softball, along with tennis courts, a skate park, and playgrounds. Isaac Evans Park, located along the scenic Green River, delights visitors with riverside trails, scenic viewpoints, and inviting picnic spots, allowing nature lovers to immerse themselves in a serene environment. Roegner Park, with family-centric amenities such as playgrounds, sports courts, and a splash pad for hot summer days, offers a welcoming retreat for all ages. Brannan Park, near the White River, is a picturesque spot for outdoor recreation, offering walking trails, picnic shelters, and a boat launch for water enthusiasts. For those seeking a more botanical experience, Soos Creek Botanical Garden within Soos Creek Park showcases a stunning array of native and exotic flora, inviting visitors to explore its themed gardens, winding paths, and tranquil ponds. Auburn’s park system extends beyond recreation to include educational and environmental initiatives. Auburn Environmental Park combines recreational amenities with interactive exhibits and interpretive trails, serving as a platform for environmental education and awareness. These programs enrich the community’s understanding of local ecosystems and foster a deeper appreciation for the natural world. In essence, Auburn’s parks system is more than just a collection of green spaces; it’s a vibrant tapestry of recreational opportunities, natural wonders, and educational endeavors that enrich the lives of residents and visitors alike. Auburn prioritizes the development of park spaces that align with the community’s values. To determine what improvements are needed or desired, the first step is to catalog and assess the current conditions
of all the city’s existing parks, open spaces, and trail resources. This process involves identifying the assets that Auburn currently owns, manages, and maintains, and evaluating them to ensure they meet or exceed park development standards, safety criteria, liability and risk concerns, recreational trends, aesthetic appeal (placemaking), and landscape and climate change resiliency objectives. To effectively plan for budgeting and resource allocation based on each park’s level of service or area of influence, parks are also assessed to determine the individual contributions they provide to the community.
Physical & Mental Health: Assessing a park by expected or projected use helps visitors know what to expect and allows park managers to establish rules and guidelines that ensure visitors’ safety and preserve the park’s resources.
Ecological Diversity: Parks often vary in terms of their ecosystems and biodiversity. Assessing parks based on their ecological features can aid in understanding and protecting these unique natural environments.
Cultural and Historical Significance: Some parks are often assessed based on their cultural or historical importance. These designations help preserve and showcase sites of cultural heritage, such as historical landmarks, archaeological sites, and areas with indigenous significance.
Tourism & Branding Benefits: Classifying parks can aid in promoting tourism and attracting visitors. Visitors often have varying interests, so categorizing parks allows tourism agencies to target specific audiences with appropriate marketing strategies.
Educational and Interpretive Benefits: Classification helps in developing educational programs and interpretive materials tailored to the park’s unique characteristics. This enhances visitor experiences by providing relevant information about the park’s natural, cultural, and historical attributes.
Research and Conservation Planning: Scientists and conservationists can use classification systems to prioritize research efforts and develop conservation plans. By understanding the different types of parks and their specific features, they can focus on areas that are most in need of study and protection.
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Categorized Recreation
Programs
The City of Auburn offers a wide range of recreation programs designed to meet the diverse interests and needs of its community members. These programs, categorized by age group and activity type, provide opportunities for fitness, personal growth, social engagement, and community involvement.:
Fitness Programs:
• Fitness memberships
• Fitness classes
• Open gym sessions
• Equipment and weight room access at the Auburn Community & Event Center
Preschool Programs (Ages 1-5):
• Indoor playground
• Classes and programs
• Birthday party packages
• Youth Programs (Ages 6-12):
• Rec n Roll (mobile recreation unit)
• Summer camps
• Classes and programs
• Family programs
• Birthday party packages
Teen Programs (Ages 13-18):
• The REC Teen Center
• Classes and programs
• Camps
• MakerSpace
Adult Programs (Ages 18+):
• Art classes
• MakerSpace
• Fitness classes
• Open gym
Senior Programs (Ages 50+):
• Senior Activity Center
• Fitness classes
• Social activities
• Educational workshops
Family Programs:
• Various family-oriented activities and events
Specialized Recreation:
• Programs for individuals with disabilities
• Sports & Athletics:
• Youth leagues
• Youth sports classes
Community Events and Special
Programs:
• Auburn Farmers Market (June-September at Les Gove Park)
• National Recreation and Park Month events Various special events throughout the year
Cultural Arts Programs:
• Performing arts
• Public art installations
Outdoor Recreation:
• MTB Trailblazers biking program
• Hiking and trail activities
Volunteer Opportunities:
• Community service and volunteer programs
Facility Rentals:
• Athletic fields
• Campground
• Meeting and banquet rooms
• Picnic shelters
Overall, the City of Auburn’s diverse array of programs and services supports a healthy, active, and engaged community and highlights Auburn’s commitment to providing diverse and inclusive recreational opportunities for its residents, promoting community well-being and engagement
Existing Parks & Recreation
Facilities
The City of Auburn offers a wide array of recreational opportunities and park spaces for both residents and visitors, with a strong emphasis on developing park spaces that align with the community’s values. Auburn’s park system currently encompasses approximately 980 acres of mostly developed or partially developed parklands, along with non-contiguous trail segments along the White River that aim to connect to the downtown core.
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To identify necessary or desired improvements, the City first catalogs and assesses the current conditions of all its existing parks, open spaces, and trail resources. This assessment process involves identifying and evaluating the assets that the City of Auburn owns, manages, and maintains, ensuring they meet or exceed park development standards, safety criteria, and liability and risk concerns. Additionally, this evaluation addresses recreational trends, enhances aesthetic appeal through placemaking, and supports landscape resiliency.
Assessment Methodology
Modeled after RCO’s suggested Level-of-Service (LOS) grading system and NRPA’s “system level” approach, a custom assessment methodology was used in this study to inventory and assess the current range of recreation and open space opportunities within any particular area. The methodology used in this report is ranked on a scale of 5 to 0, from high to low, across a number of different criteria, including:
Location
Park Classification
Facility Age
History
Funding Encumbrances or Regulatory Framework
Condition of Individual Components & Amenities
Maintenance / Known Issues
Please note that park areas developed by private entities e.g., a HOA, or and public or private schools were not included on the overall City Park map, therefore they were not part of the assessment procedure.
Process
The following steps were executed to capture the institutional knowledge of City staff, while allowing the consultant team to assess each park and trail component.
1. Inventory and build maps of the existing parks.
2. Develop a detailed inventory of each park from the previous planning process and geospatial sources, including encumbrances research and park / funding histories.
3. Distribute inventory information to City for review.
Park Classifications
Classification systems provide a standardized method to develop, organize, operate, and manage parks based on certain criteria, which can include factors such as their size, ecological importance, recreational opportunities provided, historical or cultural significance, placemaking potential, economic development, and ability to support conservation & climate resiliency goals.
Washington State Parks & RCO use different classification definitions but are built on the same premise - consistent methodology is critical to best manage our public spaces and to ensure the public are active and able to enjoy a quality mix of structured and natural environments and all the benefits that they provide.
There are six basic park and greenspace facility types typically classified and utilized by municipalities the size of Auburn of which are currently exhibited:
Pocket Parks / Mini-Parks / Tot Lots
Pocket parks are very small and serve a limited radius (up to ¼-mile) from the site; they provide passive and play-oriented recreational opportunities. Examples of pocket parks can include a tot lot with play equipment such as a climber, slide or swings; a viewpoint; or
Table 2-1: Assessment Rankings
Ranking
(High
to Low)
Description
0 n/a - Not Present
1 Major liability and structural failures present and imminent. Needs to be closed.
2 Condition is poor with major structural, cosmetic, maintenance, and liability issues observed.
3 Condition is moderate with some major cosmetic or maintenance issues that create minor liability concerns.
4 Condition is very nice with only minor cosmetic or maintenance issues observed.
5 Perfect condition with a long life cycle and no risk or liability issues.
Table 2-2: Park
Classifications
Key*Classification
C Community
N Neighborhood
O Natural Areas & Greenspaces (Open Space)
S Special Use Facilities
P Pocket Parks / Mini-Parks / Tot Lots
T Trails, Bikeways & Pathways
* to be used when referring to the parks system key map, Figure 2-1.
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waterfront access areas such as at street ends.
A small urban plaza or civic recognition project may also be considered a pocket park. Parking is not often provided at pocket parks, although lighting may be used for security and safety.
Neighborhood (Local) Park
Generally considered the basic unit of traditional park systems, neighborhood or local parks are small park areas designed for unstructured play and limited active and passive recreation. They are generally up to around 5 acres in size, but can be larger depending on a variety of factors including neighborhood need, physical location and opportunity, and should meet a minimum size of 2 acre in size when possible.
Community Park
Larger multi-acre sites developed for organized play, contain a wider array of facilities and, as a result, appeal to a more diverse group of users. Community parks are generally 20 to 50 acres in size, meet a minimum size of 20 acres when possible and serve residents within a 1-mile radius of the site.
Natural Areas (Open Space)
Natural areas are those which are preserved to maintain the natural character of the site and are managed to protect valuable ecological systems, such as riparian corridors and wetlands, and to preserve native habitat and biodiversity. In managing for their ecological value, these natural areas may contain a diversity of native vegetation that provides fish and wildlife habitat and embodies the beauty and character of the local landscape. Low-impact activities, such as walking, nature observation, and fishing are allowed, where appropriate, and horseback riding is also permitted on certain sites.
Trails, Bikeways & Pathways
Trails are non-motorized transportation networks separated from roads. Trails can be developed to accommodate multiple uses or shared uses, such as pedestrians, in line skaters, bicyclists, and equestrians. Bikeways are different than trails in that their principal focus is on safe and efficient non-motorized transportation. Bikeways & pathways serve distinctly different user groups than trail users. For shared-use trails, it is important that the alignment and cross sections be designed with flexibility to accommodate higher speeds, passing zones and greater widths. Surfaces will vary with intended use and environmental considerations.
More information on the other classification types not used can be found in Appendix B.
Current Inventory
Over its 133-year history, Auburn, WA, has developed a robust park system under the guidance of its past and present Mayors and City Councils. The City has expanded its parkland through various means, including donations, dedications, and purchases. Each park undergoes regular evaluations and renovations to ensure they align with evolving recreational trends, aesthetic standards, safety protocols, and government regulations. To meet the needs of both current and future residents, Auburn must continue to acquire new parkland while also maintaining and enhancing its existing parks and facilities. This section provides an overview of each park and open space, detailing the neighborhood it is located in, its year of establishment, classification, and acreage. As a prelude, the following table identifies the quantity and total acreage of the entire system, based on its classification.
Parks, Open Space & Special Use
Facilities
The core of Auburn, WA’s parks system is characterized by its diverse parklands, expansive open spaces, and specialized use facilities, all of which contribute to the community’s recreational and aesthetic needs. Auburn’s parklands consist of a variety of mini-parks, neighborhood parks, community parks, open spaces, and special use facilities that provide residents with access to green spaces for leisure, sports, and recreational activities. These parks are equipped with amenities such as playgrounds, sports fields, picnic areas, and walking trails, ensuring they cater to the needs of individuals and families alike. Open spaces
offer residents opportunities for passive recreation, such as hiking, bird-watching, and enjoying the scenic beauty of nature. The city’s commitment to maintaining these open spaces ensures that natural resources are protected and accessible to the community.
Table 2-3: Existing Parks & Open Spaces
Key Classification Count Acres
C Community 14 283.30
N Neighborhood 10 51.23
O Open Space 6 321.42
S Special Use Facilities 14 307.69
P Tot-Lots 13 16.71
Totals:57 980.35*
* does not include other non-park related properties, or other landbanked right-of-ways and easements.
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Table 2-4: Existing Parks Inventory
Key Name Classification Acres Rating
C1 104TH AVE SE PARK COMMUNITY 13.22 3
C2 BRANNAN PARK COMMUNITY 23.55 3.5
C3 FULMER PARK COMMUNITY 4.88 4
C4 GAME FARM PARK COMMUNITY 56.94 4
C5 GAME FARM WILDERNESS COMMUNITY 48.59 3
C6 GSA PARK COMMUNITY 6.34 3
C7 ISAAC EVANS PARK COMMUNITY 17.94 3.75
C8 JACOBSEN TREE FARM COMMUNITY 29.34 3
C9 LEA HILL PARK COMMUNITY 5.32 0
C10 LES GOVE PARK COMMUNITY 27.83 4.5
C11 MILL POND PARK COMMUNITY 4.85 3
C12 ROEGNER PARK COMMUNITY 21.79 4
C13 SUNSET PARK COMMUNITY 15.46 3
C14 VETERANS MEMORIAL PARK COMMUNITY 7.25 3
Subototal:s 14 283.31
N1 AUBURNDALE 2 PARK NEIGHBORHOOD 9.39 3
N10 SHAUGHNESSY PARK NEIGHBORHOOD 3.32 3
N2 AUBURNDALE PARK NEIGHBORHOOD 10.14 4
N3 CAMERON PARK NEIGHBORHOOD 3.79 3
N4 CEDAR LANES PARK PARK NEIGHBORHOOD 8.38 3.5
N5 EVERGREEN PARK NEIGHBORHOOD 2.74 3
N6 LAKELAND HILLS PARK NEIGHBORHOOD 5.15 3
N7 RIVERPOINT PARK NEIGHBORHOOD 2.65 3
N8 ROTARY PARK NEIGHBORHOOD 3.89 3
N9 SCOOTIE BROWN PARK NEIGHBORHOOD 1.77 3
Subototal:s 10 51.23
O1 AUBURN ENVIRONMENTAL PARK OPEN SPACE OPEN SPACE 180.17 3
O2 CLARK PROPERTY OPEN SPACE OPEN SPACE 27.42 3
O3 GAME FARM OPEN SPACE OPEN SPACE 22.67 3
O4 GOLF COURSE OPEN SPACE OPEN SPACE 40.97 3
O5 LAKELAND HILLS NATURE AREA OPEN SPACE 41.02 3
O6 LEWIS LAKE NATURE PARK OPEN SPACE 9.17 3
Subototal:s 6 321.42
P1 21ST STREET PLAYGROUND POCKET PARK / MINI-PARK / TOT LOT 0.21 3
P10 NORTH TAPPS ESTATES POCKET PARK / MINI-PARK / TOT LOT 0.76 3
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Table 2-4: Existing Parks Inventory
P11 RIVERSANDS PARK POCKET PARK / MINI-PARK / TOT LOT 1.73 3
P12 TERMINAL PARK POCKET PARK / MINI-PARK / TOT LOT 1.16 3
P13 VILLAGE SQUARE PARK POCKET PARK / MINI-PARK / TOT LOT 0.97 3
P2 BALLARD PARK POCKET PARK / MINI-PARK / TOT LOT 0.64 3
P3 DOROTHY BOTHELL PARK POCKET PARK / MINI-PARK / TOT LOT 4.83 3
P4 DYKSTRA PARK POCKET PARK / MINI-PARK / TOT LOT 1.73 2
P5 EDGEVIEW PARK POCKET PARK / MINI-PARK / TOT LOT 0.80 3
P6 FOREST VILLA TOT LOT POCKET PARK / MINI-PARK / TOT LOT 0.24 3
P7 GAINES PARK POCKET PARK / MINI-PARK / TOT LOT 1.34 3
P8 INDIAN TOM PARK POCKET PARK / MINI-PARK / TOT LOT 0.41 3
P9 JORNADA PARK POCKET PARK / MINI-PARK / TOT LOT 1.87 3
Subototal:s 13 16.71
S1 AUBURN ENVIRONMENTAL PARK SPECIAL USE AREA 18.81 3
S10 MARY OLSON FARM SPECIAL USE AREA 68.78 3
S11 MOUNTAIN VIEW CEMETERY SPECIAL USE AREA 50.29 3
S12 PIONEER CEMETERY SPECIAL USE AREA 0.75 3
S13 PLAZA PARK SPECIAL USE AREA 0.15 3
S14 SLAUGHTER MEMORIAL SPECIAL USE AREA 0.15 3
S2 AUBURN GOLF COURSE SPECIAL USE AREA 150.52 3.5
S3 B STREET PLAZA SPECIAL USE AREA 0.13 3
S4 BICENTENNIAL PARK SPECIAL USE AREA 1.34 3
S5 CENTENNIAL VIEWPOINT SPECIAL USE AREA 0.50 3
S6 CLARK PLAZA SPECIAL USE AREA 0.17 3
S7 COMMUNITY GARDEN SPECIAL USE AREA 1.84 3
S8 FENSTER PROPERTY SPECIAL USE AREA 12.72 3
S9 LEA HILL TENNIS COURTS SPECIAL USE AREA 1.54 3.5
Subototal:s 14 307.69
Totals:57 980.35
* does not include other non-park related properties, or other landbanked right-of-ways and easements.
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21st Street Playground
405 21st Street SE
0.17 acres – Dedicated in 2006
Classification: Neighborhood Park
Status: Developed
This small pocket park is situated adjacent to a City stormwater detention pond. Park amenities include a playground, picnic table, and benches. The park is on a short list of parks that need to go through the naming process.
Auburndale Park
31700 108th ST SE
9.74 acres –Transferred in 2003
Classification: Neighborhood Park
Status: Developed
Auburndale Park falls into the neighborhood park category, and like many in this classification, is underused. The City is considering design options to create an entrance on the east side of the park in order to provide better access to the surrounding neighborhoods in an effort to increase use in the park. The main feature of the park is a natural wooded area with a loop trail. There is a play area, picnic tables and barbecue grill.
Auburndale Park II
29725 118th ST SE
9.34 acres – Transferred in 2003
Classification: Neighborhood Park
Status: Undeveloped
Auburndale II is an undeveloped park with a mix of native over-story, and an under-story that is dominated by Himalayan blackberry and scotch b room. A future trail connecting Lea Hill to the valley floor is being considered, which would likely run east to west along the northern boundary of the park.
Ballard Park
1612 37th Way SE
0.68 acres - Dedicated in 1966
Classification: Neighborhood Park
Status: Developed
Ballard Park is a neighborhood park with a distinctive stone picnic shelter. In 2003, a new playground and irrigation system was installed, as well as pathways and an entrance gate. Two new tables and benches were installed and a new concrete fence constructed at that same time. Ballard Park is situated high above the White River and benefits from an appealing view of the river. There is not direct river access.
P1
N1
N1
P2
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Cameron Park
3727 Lemon Tree Lane
3.85 acres – Dedicated in 1989
Classification: Neighborhood Park
Status: Developed
Cameron Park is a nestled between two rows of houses, east of the Muckleshoot Indian Reservation. The park has two entrances, one near the intersection of Lemon Tree Lane SE and Academy Drive SE, and the other off of Lemon Tree Lane SE. Visitors can take an asphalt path into the heart of the park that winds through a large grassy open field, planted with occasional trees. A colorful play structure is located in the northeast corner of the park. Picnic tables next to the playground provide seating for picnics or for caretakers of young children. The layout of the path provides a good opportunity to integrate the play area into the rest of the park using landscaping to create a more lush and cohesive setting. A limiting factor in achieving this is the utility easement of Northwest Pipeline, which reduces the ability to landscape and improve some parts of the park.
Cedar Lanes Park
1002 25th Street SE
8.36 acres – Dedicated in 1969
Classification: Neighborhood Park
Status: Developed
Cedar Lanes Park is a unique combination of native woodland, well-kept lawn, and a formal playground. The forested area contains a mix of western red cedar, big leaf maple, and cottonwood trees. Unfortunately, recent removal of the native under-story by the parks maintenance staff has been necessary in order to improve site corridors, and deter transient activity and drug use. a bike skills course was added in 2023.
Dorothy Bothell Park
1087 Evergreen Way SE
4.35 acres – Dedicated in 2009
Classification: Neighborhood Park
Status: Developed
Located adjacent to the Lakeland Hill Community Center, Dorothy Bothell Park is a an attractive neighborhood park in Lakeland Hills. Park amenities include a playground, climbing boulders, and a trail that connects with other trails beyond the park. Dinosaur bones have been buried in the play area for the kids to uncover.
N3
N4
P3
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Dykstra Park
1487 22nd Street NE
1.67 acres – Dedicated in 1979
Classification: Neighborhood Park
Status: Developed
Dykstra Park is a small, attractive park along the Green River. Its linkage to the larger Isaac Evans Park via a suspension bridge increases its value to the community. The bridge was substantially repaired in 2002, with major structural repair completed on the north end of the structure.
Dykstra is primarily a playground neighborhood park, and its proximity to the river also makes it popular with walkers and wildlife lovers. A new playground was installed in April 2015 made possible by a Dr. Pepper/ Kaboom! Playground grant. The playground was constructed using volunteer labor during the City’s annual Clean Sweep volunteer event. In addition to the three new playground pieces, approximately 150 cubic yards of playground fiber wood chips were placed within the play area.
Forest Villa Park
1647 Fir St. SE
0.23 acres – Dedicated in 1971
Classification: Neighborhood Park
Status: Developed
The Forest Villa Park is located on a single lot in a single family residential neighborhood. The play structure is the primary focus of the park.
Gaines Park
1008 Pike Street NW
1.33 acres – Dedicated in 1999
Classification: Neighborhood Park
Status: Developed
Gaines Park is located in the Vistaria/Sunning Hills residential area. This park is a joint project between the City’s Storm Water Division and Parks and Recreation. There is a short section of boardwalk through a wetland area on the east edge of the park. The park has a picnic area, play area, ½ basketball court, and a walking trail through the park.
Indian Tom Park
1316 6th Street NE
0.42 acres – Deeded to the City in 1979 from King County
Classification: Neighborhood Park
Status: Developed
This small park is located on a single lot in the middle of a residential block. A playground was installed in April 2014 made possible by a Dr. Pepper/ Kaboom! Playground grant. The playground was constructed using volunteer labor at the City’s annual Clean Sweep volunteer event.
P4
P6
P7
P8
City of Auburn Parks, Recreation, Open Space & Trails Plan Update | Inventory & Assessment 31
Jornada Park
1433 U Court. NW
1.89 acres – Dedicated in 2004
Classification: Neighborhood Park
Status: Developed
This small park is located on a single lot in the middle of a residential block. It contains a play structure, climbing wall, picnic tables and a short loop trail.
Evergreen Park
5480 Charlotte Ave. SE
2.73 acres – Dedicated in 2014
Classification: Neighborhood Park
Status: Developed
This park was constructed to meet level of service needs for a neighborhood park within in newly developed Kersey III neighborhood. A paved walking trail with picnic tables and benches connects the ball field, to the playground and the basketball court.
]
Edge View Park
1433 U Court. NW
0.79 acres – Dedicated in 2014
Classification: Pocket Park
Status: Developed
This park has similar features and amenities as nearby Evergreen Park, but on a smaller scale.
Lakeland Hills Park
1401 Evergreen Way SE
5.06 acres – Dedicated in 1993
Classification: Neighborhood Park
Status: Developed
Lakeland Hills Park serves the Lakeland development in south Auburn. This five-acre park is nestled into a wooded hillside, where many native trees were saved and integrated into the design of the park. The park provides active recreation facilities at a neighborhood scale, and also a paved trail around the circumference of the park. Restroom facilities were built in this park and share a common structure with some water utility equipment.
P9
N5
N15
O5
City of Auburn Parks, Recreation, Open Space & Trails Plan Update | Inventory & Assessment 32
Lea Hill Tennis Courts
32121 105th Pl. SE.
1.18 acres
Classification: Special Use Facility
Status: Developed
The Lea Hill Tennis Court has a unique location on top of a City of Auburn water reservoir. Originally, two courts were constructed, but one of these is now being used as a basketball court. The court is on Lea Hill, surrounded by an adjacent apartment complex. Standing water is evident in several low areas.
Riverpoint Park
1450 32nd St. NE
3.8 acres – Dedicated in 2005
Classification: Neighborhood Park
Status: Developed
Built in 2005, the park is adjacent to the Green River and provides an access point to the Green River Trail.
Riversands/Trail Run
5014 Pike Street NE
1.76 acres – Dedicated in 2015
Classification: Neighborhood Park
Status: Developed
This pocket neighborhood park located is along the Green River near the northern City Limits. Visitors can gain direct access from the park to a bridge across the river that connects to the City of Kent’s S. 277th Street Trail (1.1 miles). The future Green River Trail will run along the eastern boundary of the park if the trail is ever extended through Auburn.
Rotary Park
2635 Alpine Street SE
3.89 acres – Dedicated in 1966
Classification: Neighborhood Park
Status: Developed
Rotary Park was developed in 1966 by the Auburn Rotary Club. At first glance the playground is the only apparent facility here. The rolling topography, unusual shape of the site and the location of conifers obscure the presence of the other major recreation facilities, including the basketball court and informal softball field. An additional acre, and a half-court basketball was added to Rotary Park in connection with the development of the Riverwalk neighborhood.
S9
N7
N18
N8
City of Auburn Parks, Recreation, Open Space & Trails Plan Update | Inventory & Assessment 33
Scootie Brown Park
1403 Henry Road NE
1.68 acres – Dedicated in 1973
Classification: Neighborhood Park
Status: Developed
The park is located at a junction between commercial and residential zones. Bounded on the north by 8th Street N.E., the park has a busy, open feel, with minimal landscaping. The City’s youth baseball programs use this park for practice.
Shaughnessy Park
3302 21st Street SE
3.46 acres – Dedicated in 1973
Classification: Neighborhood Park
Status: Developed
Shaughnessy Park is located in an attractive setting of mature Douglas Firs on a quiet residential street. Several recreational courts are located in close proximity to the street. An open play field with a backstop is in a corner of the park and is not readily apparent from other parts of the park and street. The adjacent residential neighbors have erected fences between their backyards and the playing field. Recent park improvements were made possible by a Neighborhood Block Grant in the amount of $50,000.
Terminal Park
1292 C Street SE
1.22 acres – Dedicated in 1913
Classification: Neighborhood Park
Status: Developed
Terminal Park is a small park along a quiet residential street. The newly renovated playground at the center of the park is the focal point here. The remainder of the park contains a slightly rolling lawn, with mature trees scattered throughout. Improved irrigation has also been added. In 2013 broken patio pavers were replaced with colored concrete in the patio adjacent to the playground.
Village Square
12111 SE 310th Street
1.10 acres – Transferred in 2007
Classification: Neighborhood Park
Status: Developed
This is a small pocket park is located in the middle of an apartment complex. The park has a short loop trail with a small grassy area in the middle. Access to the park can either be gained from the adjacent apartment complex or from SE 310th Street. The park is on a short list of parks that need to go through the naming process.
N20
N21
N22
N23
City of Auburn Parks, Recreation, Open Space & Trails Plan Update | Inventory & Assessment 34
104th Ave SE
31495 104th Ave. SE
14.73 acres – Transferred in 2006
Classification: Community Park
Status: Undeveloped
This undeveloped riverside property is comprised of two parcels along the Green River. A nice sandy beach along the Green River is popular for swimmers in the summer, and fishermen in the fall and winter months. Nearly two-thirds of the park is located within the 100-year floodplain so given the location of the park along the river and regulatory constraints, the park will likely be designed as a passive use nature park.
Brannan Park
1019 28th St. NE
21.68 acres – Dedicated in 1973
Classification: Community Park
Status: Developed
Brannan Park contains one of Auburn’s most heavily used sports complexes. The City sponsors many sports events at Brannan Park; Cascade Middle School users and a variety of organizations – youth soccer leagues, and Little League - also use the playing fields extensively. Brannan Park is on a flat, open site, with the Green River forming the park’s eastern boundary. The remaining sides are bounded by residential housing to the north and west, and Cascade Middle School to the south.
Fulmer Park
1005 5th Street NE
5.04 acres – Dedicated in 1979
Classification: Community Park
Status: Developed
Fulmer Park is primarily an active sports facility. In 2015 an undeveloped area on the north side of the park was bladed, all of the blackberry bushes were removed, and a new perimeter fence was installed. New irrigation, perimeter landscaping, and grass seed was added in 2014. New backstops, fencing, dugouts and drinking fountains, as well as scorekeeper tables, were added to the park in 1998.
C1
C2
C3
City of Auburn Parks, Recreation, Open Space & Trails Plan Update | Inventory & Assessment 35
Game Farm Park
3030 R ST SE
57.20 acres – Dedicated in 1988
Classification: Community Park
Status: Developed
Game Farm Park continues to be one of the largest and most frequented parks in Auburn. The park contains a wide variety of facilities for organized sports activities as well as a distinctive natural setting. The hillside backdrop and the White River along its southern edge create an intimate setting for park for users to enjoy. The park with its many courts, fields and picnic facilities is heavily used. Game Farm Park was dedicated in 1988 and exhibits many successful design features. Designing and building the park in one phase resulted in functional architectural features and site layout. Passive uses such as trails or open grassy slopes are located where the park abuts residences. Good pedestrian access is available to the surrounding neighborhood at several points along the park’s perimeter. A trail head off of Forest Ridge Drive SE provides access to a relatively unimproved gravel trail along the river in the eastern portion of the park.
Game Farm Wilderness Park
2407 Stuck River Dr. SE 48.50acres –
Dedicated in 1989
Classification: Community Park
Status: Developed
Game Farm Wilderness Park emphasizes a connection between park users and the natural environment. It has limited development and has preserved most of the native woodland along the White River. The White River Trail continues along the river on the north side of the park from Kersey Way beyond the east end of the park. The park is designed for both overnight and daytime visitors. The camping area is designed to accommodate recreation vehicles, providing each unit with water and power hook-ups.
GSA Park
413 15th St. SW
5.31 acres – Dedicated in 1966
Classification: Community Park
Status: Developed
The land for GSA Park was donated to the City by the U.S. General Services Administration. Its location in a heavily trafficked industrial zone has resulted in an atypical park setting. Currently the park has two youth softball/baseball fields, a parks maintenance building, and dugouts. New dugout covers were recently added, made possible by donations from Auburn Little League. A greenhouse is located on the property near the maintenance that is used by the City’s horticulturist to propagate new plants. The two ball fields were completed in 2003, including drinking fountains and an asphalt trail to the ball fields.
C4
C5
C6
City of Auburn Parks, Recreation, Open Space & Trails Plan Update | Inventory & Assessment 36
Isaac Evans Park
29827 Green River Road SE
19.87 acres – Dedicated in 1989
Classification: Community Park
Status: Developed
Isaac Evans Park is a riverfront park providing valuable passive recreation opportunities for the citizens of Auburn. The park’s connection to Dykstra Park via the suspension bridge increases its accessibility to local residents and is an appealing feature for visitors. The pedestrian bridge may also accommodate future trail connections between the eastern and western sides of the river. A internal paved trail runs around the circumference of the park. The forested riparian area along the Green River remains in a natural condition with recent restoration plantings added to accommodate the Reddington Levee Setback project located across the river from the park. Scattered throughout the grassy space on the inside of the trail are clusters of picnic tables, a picnic shelter, restroom facilities, and playground equipment.
Jacobsen Tree Farm Park
29387 132nd Ave. SE
29.30 acres – Transferred in 2003
Classification: Community Park
Status: Undeveloped
The Jacobsen Tree Farm property is an undeveloped park located in the Lea Hill area of Auburn. The City went through a master planning process for the future park, which was completed in 2010. Future elements of the park include soccer fields, baseball fields, play grounds, and passive recreational opportunities. The park is adjacent to Arthur Jacobsen Elementary and Auburn Mountainview High School, and has magnificent views of Mount Rainier. A bond or levy will be needed in order to develop this large community park property.
Lea Hill Park
31693 124th Ave. SE
5.26 acres –Dedicated in 2013
Classification: Community Park
Status: Developed
Lea Hill Park is a community park that serves the Lea Hill neighborhood and is located adjacent to the Green River Community College Campus. Park amenities include a skate park, pervious walking pathways, a rentable picnic shelter, an amphitheater, baseball field, free game synthetic sport area, half basketball court, and a play area featuring a tractor and climbing toys. An ADA accessible restroom facility with two unisex bathrooms and drinking fountains was completed in the spring 2015.
C7
C8
C9
City of Auburn Parks, Recreation, Open Space & Trails Plan Update | Inventory & Assessment 37
Les Gove Park/Les Gove Community Campus
910 9th St. SE
26.07 acres –Dedicated in 1966
Classification: Community Park
Status: Developed
Les Gove Park is a recreational and educational facility serving the entire community. The Library, Parks and Recreation Administration Building, Community Center, Teen Center, Senior Center, the White River Valley Museum, and a variety of recreational features make Les Gove a very popular destination. A Park Master plan was completed in 2015 in order to help define park elements, and create a road-map for near term and long range planning concepts for the entire campus. A major outcome of the Master Plan was to establish the Auburn Community Campus that features Les Gove Park.
Mill Pond Park
4582 Mill Pond Dr. SE
4.20 acres – Dedicated in 1997
Classification: Community Park
Status: Developed
Mill Pond is unique in several ways. The park is a joint project between the Parks and Public Works Departments, the Auburn School District, and the developer of Lakeland Hills. All of these groups came together to create a park with a dual purpose: to provide a recreational experience in a natural setting, and to provide stormwater detention and filtering for a 400 acre area. The site includes a permanent pond, a grass-lined bio-swale that becomes a temporary pond during storms, a 1/4 mile paved trail around the circumference of the ponds, and a fishing dock. Fishing in the pond is limited to children under 15.
Roegner Park
601 Oravetz Road SE
19.22 acres – Dedicated in 1994
Classification: Community Park
Status: Developed
This community park is located along the banks of the White River, adjacent to Auburn Riverside High School. A trail system includes both hard and soft-surfaced sections that meet the needs of many different users, including equestrians from the near- by Hidden Valley neighborhood. Trail construction began in 1997 from the east side of Roegner Park to Kersey Way, and continuing east along the river to Game Farm Wilderness Park. An approximate ½- acre off-leash fenced dog park is located near the trail, and can be easily accessed from the parking area off of Oravitz Road. Commissioned artwork for the park includes a uniquely designed bench with a salmon motif, placed to allow views of the river.
C10
C11
C12
City of Auburn Parks, Recreation, Open Space & Trails Plan Update | Inventory & Assessment 38
Sunset Park
1420 69th St. SE
15.15 acres – Dedicated in 2003
Classification: Community Park
Status: Developed
Sunset Park was developed by the developer in Lakeland Hills. It is unique in several ways. The community park serves the Lakeland Hills neighborhood but also the community. The site includes a picnic shelter, two youth baseball/softball fields, trails, basketball court and skate park. Fundraising and planning efforts began in early 2015 for a splash pad with a targeted completion date tentatively set for summer 2016.
Veterans Memorial Park
405 E St. NE
7.67 acres – Dedicated in 1926
Classification: Community Park
Status: Developed
Veteran’s Memorial Park, formerly City Park, is a popular community park located close to downtown Auburn and adjacent to Auburn High School’s Memorial Stadium. The park is distinctive for its Veterans Memorial structure, shady woods and underlying expanse of green lawn. The Veterans Memorial structure was funded with donations and fund-raising events by local veterans groups. Its design and construction were accomplished with use of volunteer labor.
C13
C14
Special use facilities include unique recreational and cultural amenities that serve specific community interests. This includes the Auburn Golf Course, the White River Valley Museum, and various sports complexes and community centers, all enhancing the quality of life for Auburn residents.
Trails, Bikeways & Pathways
Auburn’s parks system is designed to offer a balanced mix of recreational opportunities, natural preservation, and specialized facilities, which fosters a vibrant and active community. The city’s mild climate, combined with a strong culture of outdoor activities, significantly contributes to the high usage and support of its extensive trail network.
The city categorizes its trails into three primary types:
1. Recreational loop trails
2. Linear trails
3. Recreation/transportation trails.
Recreational loop trails are typically short paths that form loops within a single park or site. These trails are designed for activities such as walking, bicycling, hiking, or skating, and they often connect various activity areas within a park or provide access to natural preserves or nearby neighborhoods. These trails can be constructed
with either hard surface materials and are usable in all weather conditions, while soft surface trails offer a more rustic and natural experience. Linear trails in Auburn are designed to connect different areas of the city or activity centers, leading to key destinations. These trails are generally hard-surfaced, making them suitable for activities like walking, bicycling, and skating, even in varying weather conditions. Notable examples of linear trails include the Green River (Reddington) Trail, Lakeland Hills Linear Trail, Lake Tapps Parkway Trail, and the White River Trail. The White River Trail, for example, stretches from Game Farm Wilderness Park through Roegner Park and ends at A Street SE, featuring both paved sections and soft surface areas that accommodate a variety of users, including mountain bikers, horseback riders, and hikers. Recreation/transportation trails serve a dual purpose by connecting various parts of the city or activity centers for both recreational and transportation uses. Refer to Table 2-6 for the primary or major examples of these trails. These trails are typically linear, hard-surfaced, and designed to accommodate a variety of transportation modes, such as walking, bicycling, and skating. Sometimes referred to as “multi-modal trails,” they are built to stricter standards and are generally designed for two-way traffic.
City of Auburn Parks, Recreation, Open Space & Trails Plan Update | Inventory & Assessment 39
Table 2-5: Existing Trails
Park/Trail Description
Linear
Trails
Total
(miles)
Recreational
Loop Trails
Total (miles)
Recreation /
Transportation
Trails Total
(miles)
Total
Length
Auburndale Park Paved loop path around park 0.41 0.14
Auburn Environmental Park Board Walk Trail 0.23 0.23
Brannan Park Paved loop path around Park to Reddington levee. A paved surface linear trail extends along the levee.1.7 0.72 2.42
C’ Street SE Trail Ellington Rd. SW to 15th Street SW 1.6 1.6
Cameron Park Paved loop path through park and loops through Lemon Tree Lane 0.33 0.33
Cedar Lanes Park Informal path through wooded area 0.25 0.25
Dorothy Bothell Loop trail 0.25 0.25
Game Farm Park Paved loop path around meadow, play structure, ball fields. Extensive sidewalk throughout park 3.3 3.3
Game Farm Wilderness Park Paved trail along the White River and around the group camp area.See White R. Trail
Interurban Trail Paved 12’ wide trail runs alongside the Union Pacific railroad, from the city’s northern to southern limits 4.5 4.5
Isaac Evans Park Paved loop through wood and along the Green River 1.07 1.07
Jornada Park Paved loop through wood and around park 0.1 0.1
Lakeland Hills Linear Extensive sidewalk path on Lake- land Hills Way from Evergreen Way to Lake Tapps Parkway 0.73 0.73
Lakeland Hills Park Trail Paved loop path around recreational fields 0.39 0.39
Lake Tapps Pkwy Trail Paved sidewalk and asphalt trail 1.62 1.62
Les Gove Park Trail Paved loop path around open space 0.58 0.58
Mill Pond Park Trail Paved loop path around pond. Connects to Lakeland Hills Trail.0.29 0.29
PSE (Lakeland)0.4 0.4
Roegner Park Both hard and soft surface trails are present in the park. A paved loop path is marked.See White River Trail Below
Sunset Park Paved loop path around park.1.19 1.19
West Auburn Lake 0.25 0.25
White River Trail Paved and soft surface trail 3.5 2.3
Total 7.95 9.11 6.1 23.16
City of Auburn Parks, Recreation, Open Space & Trails Plan Update | Inventory & Assessment 40
The Interurban Trail is managed by King County Parks for the sections outside specific municipal boundaries. However, within Auburn’s city limits, the Auburn Parks Department is responsible for maintaining the segment of the trail that runs through the city. This collaborative effort ensures the trail remains well-maintained and accessible throughout its route. On the other hand, the White River Trail is primarily maintained by the City of Auburn Parks Department, which ensures its upkeep and accessibility as it connects several key parks within the city. The Interurban Trail is a prominent example of this type, serving as a major non-motorized route that runs north to south through several cities, including Tukwila, Kent, Auburn, Algona, and Pacific. This 12-foot-wide path follows the Puget Power right-of-way and parallels the Union Pacific Railroad for much of its length, making it a key transportation and recreational asset. The trail also provides access to several of Auburn’s major employers, including Boeing, GSA, the Outlet Collection, and
Auburn Environmental Park. Located less than half a mile from downtown Auburn, the Interurban Trail is a vital link for the community. Both the Interurban Trail and the White River Trail are also designed to accommodate equestrians, making them versatile for a range of users. Additionally, informal trails in the open space areas of southeast Auburn and the shoulders of some rural roads are also used by equestrians, although these are not specifically designed or managed for this purpose. Auburn’s commitment to providing diverse and accessible recreational options ensures that the city’s parks and trails continue to meet the needs of its growing population.
Schools & Other Outdoor
Recreation Amenities
In Auburn, recreational opportunities extend beyond city parks, encompassing other public lands and private facilities, which play a crucial role in assessing the adequacy of the City’s park system. Among these, schools are one of the largest contributors to recreational space outside of city-managed parks. Schools naturally serve as neighborhood gathering
places and are often within walking distance of most homes in the city. School grounds typically feature sports fields, open grassy areas for play, playground equipment, and basketball courts. However, the accessibility and availability of these school facilities can vary. During the school year, these spaces are primarily used by the schools throughout the day and often during after-school hours, limiting their availability for individual use or non-school sports leagues. Additionally, some sports fields may be too small or not maintained to the standards required for organized league play. Therefore, while school facilities are valuable components of the community’s overall recreational resources, they cannot substitute for a robust public park system. Table 2-7 in the following pages summarizes the recreational facilities available at Auburn School District properties. It’s important to note that the Auburn School District’s boundaries extend beyond the Auburn city limits, resulting in a service area that does not fully align with that of the City of Auburn. As a result, the availability and utilization of these school facilities for Auburn residents may vary based on geographic and jurisdictional differences. In addition to school properties, several other lands used informally for recreation are owned by other public entities. The Auburn Water Utility manages several watershed areas with restricted access to maintain water quality. The Coal Creek Spring Watershed in south Auburn is the city’s primary water source, while the West Hill Watershed serves as a secondary source. Despite the proximity of these areas to neighborhoods, public access is generally discouraged to protect water quality. King County Parks also owns several developed and undeveloped properties near Auburn. While Auburn’s parks are more convenient for residents, many recreational users also utilize nearby King County parks, regardless of civic boundaries. A significant regional project, the Green River Trail, managed by King County, spans over 19 miles from Cecil Moses Park near Seattle’s southern boundary to North Green River Park near Auburn. Extending the Green River Trail south from Kent has indeed faced challenges due to private property issues. However, plans are still in development to continue this extension through Auburn and eventually to Flaming Geyser State Park at the Green River Gorge. The project remains in the design and planning stages, with ongoing efforts to resolve these challenges and facilitate the trail’s expansion further south. Additionally, the State of Washington owns an easement along certain sections of the west side of the Green River within the city. This easement, which runs directly behind several residences, permits access for fishing only, limiting broader public use.
Table 2-6: Auburn Maintained Trails
(Dedicated)
Type Length
Interurban Trail (South)4.5 mi
White River Trail 3.5 mi
Green River Trail*TBD
8.0 mi
* Future proposed extension
City of Auburn Parks, Recreation, Open Space & Trails Plan Update | Inventory & Assessment 41
Table 2-7: Auburn School District Facilities
School Available Facilities
Elementary Schools
Alpac 2 youth baseball/softball fields
Chinook 4 youth baseball/softball fields
Evergreen Heights 2 youth baseball/softball fields
Gildo Rey 2 youth baseball/softball fields
Ilalko 2 youth baseball/softball fields
Lakeview 3 youth baseball/softball fields
Lea Hill 2 youth baseball/softball fields
Dick Scobee 2 youth baseball/softball fields
Pioneer 3 youth baseball/softball fields
Terminal Park 2 youth baseball/softball fields
Washington 2 youth baseball/softball fields
Middle Schools
Cascade 1 Football Field with Track,
Gymnasium with 1 basketball court, Annex 2 Baseball/Softball Fields, 90’ & 65’ fields
Mt. Baker 1 Football Field with Track, 2 Gymnasium
3 Baseball Fields, 90’ & 65’ fields
3 Softball Fields
Olympic 1 Football Field, Track,
Gymnasium with 1 basketball court
2 Baseball/Softball Fields, 90’ & 65’ fields
Rainier 1 Football Field, Track
Gymnasium with 2 basketball court
2 Baseball/Softball Fields, 90’ & 65’ fields
Senior High Schools
Auburn Riverside High 1 Football Field synthetic turf with Track (Lighted), 8 Tennis Courts
5 Gymnasiums
1 Baseball Field, 90’ infield, 3 softball fields
Auburn Senior High 1 Football Field synthetic turf with Track (Lighted), 8 Lighted Tennis Courts
Gymnasium with 2 basketball court 1 Baseball Field, 90’ infield
Auburn Mountain View High 1 Football Field with Track,
6 Gymnasiums, 8 Tennis Courts
2 Baseball Fields, 90’ & 65’ fields, 2 Softball Fields
West Auburn High 1 Baseball/Softball Field, 65’ infield
1 Gymnasium
City of Auburn Parks, Recreation, Open Space & Trails Plan Update | Inventory & Assessment 42
Existing Major Public Art Projects
The City of Auburn Parks Department plays a vital role in maintaining the city’s vibrant public art installations. These installations not only enhance the beauty of public spaces but also reflect the cultural and artistic spirit of the community. Below is a list of the major public art installations that the Auburn Parks Department is responsible for maintaining, ensuring they remain in excellent condition for all residents and visitors to enjoy.
Table 2-8: Existing Public Art Inventory
Year Artist Piece Location
1989 Meg Pettibone Steelhead Isaac Evans Park
1991 Richard Beyer Children Playing Train at the Switch City Hall
1993 Michele Van Slyke Every Year the Salmon Return Roegner Park
1994 Nancy Hammer Burlington Northern Railroad Bridge
Auburn Way S & Hwy 18
1995 Garth Edwards B Street Plaza E Main & B St. SE
1996 Timothy Siciliano Bus Shelter Murla 15th St SW
1996 Gerald Tsutukawa Sun Circle Game Farm Park
1997 Timothy Siciliano The Equine Amusement 15th St. NE @ Metro P&R
1998 Deborah Merksy Pioneer Cemetery Entryway Auburn Way N & 8th St. NE
1999 Kulzer & Spitzer Xtreme AtmosFearic Oscillator
Auburn Skate Park
2000 Evans & Mee Mnemosyne’s Opus King County Library
2001 Phillip Levine Threshold Les Gove Park
2001 Ries Niemi 5 Moments Senior Center Les Gove Park
2003 Paul Sorey Running Figures Sound Transit Plaza
2004 Brandon Zebold Sighting LL Hills Way & Evergreen Way
2004 Sidney Genette Blue Neutron Auburn Justice Center
2005 Ingrid Lahti Les Gove Community Campus Sign
Auburn Way S & F Street
2006 Darel Grothaus
Evergreen-Washelli Cemetery: Seattle, WA
Cemetery Admin Building
2007 Greg Boudreau Veteran’s Day Parade
Veteran’s Memorial Building
2008 Tom Askman Le Anne Lake Tobu Bo West Main Street
2008 Jesse Brown Urban Art Works Mural
233 W. Main Street (A1 Collision Building)
2009 Susan Zoccola Swing and Flight Auburn Golf Course
2011 Bruce Meyers Auburn Valley Topography Les Gove Park
2011 Sheila Klein Civic Lanterns 25 W. Main, City Hall
2011 Rachael Dotson Utility Boxes Various–Throughout Down- town
2011 Mauricia Robalino Ride the Wave 116 A Street
2012 Chris Sharp Railroads our Beginning Mural 364 W Main Street
1013 Michael Laughlin Strawberry Calf Lea Hill Park
2013 Lin McJunkin Riparian Totem Auburn Justice Center
2013 Patricia Vader Watch My Tail 4910 A Street SE
2014 Kenneth Hall Origami #2 – Fuchia Sunset Park
2016 Virginia Paquette Confluence/Community 9910 Ninth Street SE
2016 Steve Tyree Hawk Game Farm Park
2017 David Varnau Joie de Vivre Auburn Community & Event Center
2019 Jacob Novinger Heirloom Hare Les Gove Park
2019 Peter Reiquam Crow with Fries Les Gove Park
2019 Nicholas Goettling Pillow Fight Mural F Street Bridge Underpass
2021 MacRae Wylde Truth Postmark Center for the Arts
City of Auburn Parks, Recreation, Open Space & Trails Plan Update | Inventory & Assessment 43 | Inventory & Assessment 43City of Auburn Parks, Recreation, Open Space, & Trails Plan
Public Involvement
City of Auburn Parks, Recreation, Open Space & Trails Plan Update | Public Involvement 44
The successful development and implementation of a community’s parks system ultimately relies on listening to the needs, demands, and ideas the community has to improve or suggest new additions to the system. Knowing that “the people who show up get to make the decisions”, it was imperative that a successful public involvement process be implemented that allowed Auburn’s citizens, and its visitors, multiple opportunities to inform the process and results. These opportunities hosted during this planning process included:
Community Needs Assessment Survey
Community Visioning Survey
With grant programs and other decision makers focusing on understanding a community’s desired quality of life, public involvement is the most crucial and time-consuming element of the PROS planning process, allowing a correct assessment of a community’s desired quality of life. This is where the public and users can share their ideas, goals, and objectives for their parks system and communicate these needs and desires to the City.
The intention behind the public involvement approach was to maximize an equitable distribution of needs, wishes, and ideas from the public. To ensure that
the PROS Plan is reflective of the Auburn community and their interests, needs, and priorities, a series of engagement goals and methodologies were discussed and developed.
Engagement Goals
As this process began and continued through the COVID-19 pandemic, many public events were canceled or postponed due to safety concerns and government restrictions, leading to a substantial decline or, in many cases, the elimination of in-person participation. To adapt, more focus was placed on virtual engagement techniques, which provided a safer alternative for community engagement, though they could not fully replace in-person experiences. There was also a notable increase in the use of parks and outdoor spaces as people sought safe ways to engage in recreational activities while maintaining social distancing, with activities like hiking, biking, and outdoor fitness classes gaining popularity. The pandemic prompted a reevaluation of public health and safety practices, resulting in changes to engagement planning and execution. As restrictions eased, participation rates began to recover gradually, although some individuals still remained cautious about returning to large in-person events. Additionally, there was an increased focus on health
City of Auburn Parks, Recreation, Open Space & Trails Plan Update | Public Involvement 45
and wellness, driving interest in related programs offered by parks and recreation departments and encouraging the development of more diverse and inclusive programming to meet community needs. Overall, COVID-19 brought about significant changes in public participation, with a lasting impact on how events are conducted and attended. To overcome this potential lack of participation, a series of goals for the engagement plan was developed.
1. Continue to Build On or Validate
Public Sentiment From Previous
Surveys
The goal is to recognize that in communities like Auburn, public communication often relies heavily on informal channels such as word-of-mouth and conversations among neighbors. This approach is effective for disseminating information and fostering discussions about local events. Auburn also has other planning processes, such as the Comprehensive Plan and Downtown Master Plan, ongoing during this time. The current planning effort aims to incorporate a review of these past surveys to identify relevant data that can inform the understanding of the community’s desired quality of life.
2. Ensure equitable distribution of new
survey results throughout the city.
To gain a holistic understanding of a city’s diverse communities and their needs, conducting surveys at the neighborhood level is crucial. This approach ensures that the concept of “quality of life” is not skewed towards a specific demographic. Ideally, the surveys are designed to capture respondents’ residential locations within the city. This allows for the identification of localized needs and the development of tailored strategies for equitable resource allocation, targeted interventions, and effective community engagement. Using a GIS-based tool to identify the locations of comments will ensure we can achieve a desired level of response equity across all neighborhoods of Auburn.
3. Deploy multiple engagement
opportunities The inclusion of multiple participation methods effectively broadens the reach of the survey and addresses potential accessibility challenges. In addition to online and virtual surveys, the public is invited to participate in multiple engagement events online and complete paper surveys distributed at designated locations like City Hall, the Senior Center, and the Museum. This multi-modal approach ensures inclusivity by catering to residents with varying
technological access and preferences.
4. Provide a broad range of
constituents the ability to supply both
broad and specific action-oriented
feedback.
The goal is to transcend the collection of broad public needs and desires by implementing an online map-based engagement tool that uniquely incorporates opportunities for residents to actively participate in the “design” of their parks, generating site-specific suggestions. This approach will align with the principles of an inclusive planning framework, emphasizing citizen engagement in shaping service delivery. The aim is to create avenues for the public to contribute “real” ideas and concepts, fostering a sense of ownership and impact. Additionally, measures will be taken to ensure participant demographics accurately reflect the Auburn community profile.
Public Engagement Plan
Overview
The engagement plan was organized around a series of both virtual and in-person events, noting the specific time dates. With the primary goal of the City always being to engage with the public about its park and recreation needs, the City developed a public engagement plan centered around two different kinds of virtual engagement techniques: 1) an online Needs & Assessment Survey, and 2) an online map-based project. A successful engagement process harnesses the community’s energy and inspires community ownership of the process, while also adapting to new insights and feedback. Stakeholders and community members supply the local knowledge, context, and information necessary to make informed project decisions. As part of this engagement process, public comment was collected via an online community needs assessment survey, conducted in the Fall of 2022 and linked through the City’s website. The project team will use the collected input, summarized in this report, to inform and drive the PROS Plan update.
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Kickoff Meeting
SCJ met with City of Auburn Staff to conduct a kickoff meeting. At this meeting, the following was reviewed and discussed:
1. Determine the current parks, recreation, and open space issues
2. Brainstorm and finalize stakeholder interview list
3. Share and finalize the Public Engagement Plan
Engagement Marketing
With a primary goal of the City to always be engaging with the public about its park & recreation needs, the City developed a public engagement plan centered around two different kinds of virtual engagement techniques, 1) A online Needs & Assessment Survey, and 2) a on-line map-based project
A successful engagement process harnesses the community’s energy and inspires community ownership of the process, while also adapting to new insights and feedback. Stakeholders and community members supply the local knowledge, context, and information necessary to make informed project decisions.
As part of this engagement process, public comment was collected via an online community needs assessment survey, conducted in the Fall of 2022 and linked through the City’s website. The project team will use the collected input, summarized in this report, to inform and drive the PROS Plan update.
Note that all the engagement marketing, flyers, and surveys were all translated and offer in multiple languages, including Chinese, Russian, and Spanish. A Marshaleese translator was found but was not able to process the survey information in time.
Parks Needs & Assessment
Survey
To assess how people were using Auburn’s park and trail system, an online survey was conducted in the fall of 2022. This initiative aimed to gather valuable insights from both residents and visitors. The survey specifically focused on understanding current usage patterns of existing parks and trails, identifying any barriers that hinder their use, and gauging resident interest in adding or removing specific park and recreation features. The online survey consisted of both multiple-choice and open-ended questions focusing on community needs and issues with regards to Auburn’s park facilities and recreation programs.
Additionally, the survey sought to identify the most popular parks and amenities among residents and visitors. To ensure broad participation, the survey was offered in both English, Spanish, Chinese, and Russian.
The list of questions asked, minus typical demographic inquiries, included:
How frequently do you use the City’s park and recreation facilities?
How long is your average visit to these facilities?
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Age Range
When asked the question, “What age range are you in?” the largest percentage (33%) were in the 35–49 age range. Another 30% were in the 50–64 range, and 28% were 65 or over. Only 10% of respondents were under the age of 35.
Demographic information was collected to help ensure survey responses are representative of the community and amenities are tailored to patrons and residents. All responses were voluntary and were collected anonymously.
Ethnicity
When asked “What is your ethnicity?” the largest percentage (78%) identified as “White”, with another 5% identifying as “Hispanic/Latino” and 5% identifying as “Asian.”
“American Indian or Alaska Native,” “Black/African American,” and “Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander” each accounted for less than 2% of the respondent population, and about 7% of respondents identified as “Other.”
Household Size
Nearly half of respondents (46%) indicated their household consists of only 1 to 2 people, and another 40% indicated their household consists of 3 to 4 people.
Demographics
0.5%
18–24
7.8%25–34
1.3%under 18
28.3%
65 or over
29.6%50–64
32.5%35–49
What is your ethnicity?
78.2%
White
1.5% American Indian or Alaska Native
4.7% Asian
1.5% Black/African American
5.2% Hispanic/Latino
1.7% Native Hawaiian
or Pacific Islander
7.2%
other
46.4%
1 to 2 people
39.8%
3 to 4 people
2.0%
7 or more people11.8%
5 to 6 people
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Demographics
Home Location
A majority of survey participants (79.5%) indicated they live in the City of Auburn. In order to better understand where Auburn’s park users live, survey participants were also asked what zip code they live in. Nearly 40% of participants responded that they live in zip code 98092 (Auburn – east), with another third of participants in 98002 (Auburn – central) and 12% in 98001 (Auburn – I-5 corridor). The survey also saw a significant number of participants who lived in Bonney Lake, Covington, Maple Valley, Federal Way, and Pacific.
Neighborhood of Residence
Of the 507 survey participants who indicated they live in the City of Auburn, the highest percentages live in the Lea Hill (21%) and Lakeland (20%) neighborhoods. The Downtown (8%), SE Auburn (6%), and Plateau (5%) neighborhoods had the smallest numbers of participants.
Yes –
I live in the
City of Auburn
79.5%
No –
I don’t live in the
City of Auburn
20.5%
NORTH
AUBURN LEA
HILL
SE AUBURN
SOUTH
AUBURN
LAKELAND
WEST
HILL
PLATEAU
DOWNTOWN
NORTH
AUBURN LEA
HILL
SE AUBURN
SOUTH
AUBURN
LAKELAND
WEST
HILL
PLATEAU
DOWNTOWN
98038
98002
98391
98023
98092
98354
98001
98058
98421
98422
98030
98443 98372
98321
98198
98042
98032
98022
98003
98047
98371
98390
98424
98031
Auburn
Covington
Maple Valley
Algona
Pacific
Bonney Lake
Sumner
Edgewood
Milton
Fife
Federal Way
Kent
Des Moines
18
167
167
18
0 50 100 150 200 250
number of respondents
98047 PACIFIC 1.0%
98003 FEDERAL WAY 1.0%
98038 MAPLE VALLEY 1.0%
98042 COVINGTON 1.5%
98391 BONNEY LAKE 3.1%
98001 AUBURN I5 CORRIDOR 12.4%
OTHER 6.7%
98023 FEDERAL WAY 0.8%
98002 AUBURN CENTRAL 33.3%
98092 AUBURN EAST 39.0%respondent home zip code0 20 40 60 80 100 120
number of respondents
DOWNTOWN 7.5%
WEST HILL 10.8%
NORTH AUBURN 14.8%
SOUTH AUBURN 15.0%
LAKELAND 19.9%
LEA HILL 20.9%
PLATEAU 4.9%
SE AUBURN 6.1%respondent home neighborhood
City of Auburn Parks, Recreation, Open Space & Trails Plan Update | Public Involvement 49
Use of Auburn’s
Existing Facilities
20.8%Spring
Summer 19.3%Fall
2.1%Winter57.7 %%
9.3%3 to 4 hours1 to 2
hours 2.1%4 to 5 hours
1.9%more than 5 hours66.2 %20.5%less than 1 hour
%
21.9%Monthly
Weekly 14.2%
Semi-Yearly
2.8%Yearly
6.0%Rarely/Never41.1 %14.0%Daily%Frequency
Survey participants were asked, “How frequently do you visit the parks or recreational facilities within the City of Auburn?” Over 40% indicated they visit Auburn’s parks weekly, with another 22% visiting monthly.
Length of Visit
When asked, “How long is your average visit to a park or recreational facility within the City of Auburn?” nearly two-thirds of participants responded with 1 to 2 hours, with another 21% indicating their average visits last less than 1 hour. Only 13% of respondents indicated their average visits were longer than 2 hours.
Season
Participants were asked, “What is your favorite season to visit parks and recreational facilities in the City of Auburn?” Summer was the favorite time to visit for 58% of respondents, with Spring and Fall each garnering about 20% of the vote. Only 2% of respondents indicated winter was their favorite season for a parks visit.
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Recreational Facility Use
0 100 200 300 400 500
SOCCER FIELDS 13.4%
INDOOR FITNESS AND EXERCISE FACILITIES 15.5%
GOLF COURSES 12.0%
HIGH SCHOOL/ADULT BASEBALL FIELDS 9.4%
COMMUNITY GARDENS 12.9%
OFFLEASH DOG PARKS 17.0%
INDOOR MULTIPURPOSE COMMUNITY CENTERS 17.3%
THEATER OR CULTURAL CENTER 19.1%
FOOTBALL/LACROSSE/FIELD HOCKEY FIELDS 6.8%
YOUTH SOFTBALL FIELDS 7.4%
OUTDOOR FITNESS EQUIPMENT 5.7%
SKATEBOARDING AREAS 3.9%
OUTDOOR BASKETBALL COURTS 6.3%
OTHER 7.8%
TENNIS COURTS 8.6%
GYMNASIUMS 8.9%
WATER SPRAY PARKS 25.0%
NONPAVED WALKING AND BIKING TRAILS 29.4%
RIVER ACCESS FACILITIES 29.9%
PICNIC SHELTERS/AREAS 30.7%
PLAYGROUNDS 42.0%
NATURAL AREAS/NATURE PARKS 44.9%
SMALL NEIGHBORHOOD PARKS 46.8%
LARGE COMMUNITY PARKS 51.2%
PAVED WALKING AND BIKING TRAILS 75.0%
number of respondents
(see breakdown at right)
18.8%
Unspecified
14.6%
Events/programs
8.3%
Bocce courts
8.3%
Disc golf course
6.3%
Camping areas
4.2%
Restrooms
2.1%
Areas to ly model aircrat
33.3%
Pickleball courts
4.2%
Rock climbing wall
“Other”
open-ended
responses
75%
of all respondents identified
paved walking/biking trails as
one of the recreational facilities
they use most regularly
Types of Facilities Used
Respondents were asked to select from a multiple-choice list to answer the question, “What are the types of recreational amenities/facilities that you most regularly use?” Respondents could select as many choices as applicable for them/their household, regardless of whether the facilities were located in Auburn or not.
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Recreational Facility Use
Recreational Facilities Outside Auburn
As a follow-up question to what types of recreational amenities/facilities they use most regularly, survey participants were asked, “Do you currently travel outside the City of Auburn for any of these amenities?” They were then asked to list the facilities they currently travel outside the City of Auburn to use. The open-ended answers provided by participants can be broadly broken into the categories below.
0 25 50 75 100 125 150
GARDENS/ZOOS 1.9%
SPLASH PARKS 2.4%
PICKLEBALL COURTS 0.9%
SKATE PARKS 0.9%
POOLS 1.5%
NATURAL/OPEN SPACE AREAS 2.6%
GOLF COURSES 2.8%
STATE/NATIONAL PARKS 3.2%
CAMPING AREAS 0.2%
ADULT REC PROGRAMS 0.4%
PICNIC FACILITIES 0.6%
DISC GOLF COURSES 0.6%
TENNIS COURTS 0.9%
CULTURAL EVENTS 3.4%
SPORTS FIELDS 3.6%
BIKE TRAILS 4.1%
PLAYGROUNDS 4.3%
DOG PARKS 5.4%
INDOOR/COMMUNITY CENTERS 6.0%
WATER ACCESS 8.2%
WALKING/HIKING TRAILS 16.7%
OTHER CITY PARKS 29.2%
number of responses
Please list the facilities you currently travel outside the City of Auburn
to use.
63%
of all respondents indicated they
travel outside of Auburn to access
the recreational amenities/facilities
they use most frequently
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Recreational Facility Use
Barriers to Use
Survey participants were asked to select from a multiple-choice list to answer the question, “What are some of the existing barriers or reasons why you may not use available recreational facilities or participate in parks and recreational programs within the City of Auburn?” Participants were invited to select as many choices as applied for them/their household. Security/safety concerns (57%) were the top barrier to participants’ use of existing facilities, followed by maintenance/cleanliness (31%) and overcrowded/booked facilities (20%).
0 50 100 150 200 250 300 350 400
number of respondents
I DON’T LIVE IN AUBURN 6.1%
AMENITIES ARE TOO FAR AWAY/NOT AVAILABLE 11.5%
DON’T KNOW WHAT’S AVAILABLE/WHERE FACILITIES ARE LOCATED 12.1%
OTHER 13.6%
TOO BUSY/NOT A PRIORITY 18.3%
FACILITIES ARE OVERCROWDED/BOOKED 20.0%
COST 5.2%
POOR ACCESSIBILITY/ADA 5.7%
POOR MAINTENANCE/CLEANLINESS 31.3%
SECURITY/SAFETY CONCERNS 57.2%
57%
of respondents reported that
security/safety concerns are a barrier
to their use of the City’s available
recreational facilities or programs
City of Auburn Parks, Recreation, Open Space & Trails Plan Update | Public Involvement 53
Parks and Recreation Needs
0 20 40 60 80 100
SPORTS LEAGUES18 AND OVER
ADDITIONAL BALL FIELDS SOCCER,BASEBALL, FOOTBALL, ETC.
ADDITIONAL PICNIC AREAS/SHADE STRUCTURES
ADDITIONAL COMMUNITY,CULTURAL, ARTS FACILITIES
ADDITIONAL SPORT COURTSBASKETBALL, TENNIS, PICKLEBALL, ETC.
MORE YOUTHPROGRAMS/CAMPS
COMMUNITY CENTER/INDOOR FACILITIES
OFFLEASH DOG PARK
SPLASH/SPRAY PARK
UNDEVELOPED NATURALAREAS/OPEN SPACE
MORE URBAN TRAILS/SIDEWALKS NONMOTORIZED
percent of respondents
Strongly Agree Agree No Preference Disagree Strongly Disagree
The City Needs...
Survey participants were provided with a list of recreational facilities and amenities, each framed as a statement (“The City needs [facility/amenity]”). Participants were asked to select how strongly they agreed or disagreed with each statement on a sliding scale of one to five (5 = strongly agree, 4 = agree, 3 = no preference, 2 = disagree, 1 = strongly disagree). Responses are summarized in the above chart.
At the top of the list, over 90% of participants either agreed or strongly agreed that the City needs more urban trails/sidewalks (non-motorized). Strong support was also given for undeveloped natural areas/open space, splash/spray parks, off-leash dog parks, community center/indoor facilities, and more youth programs/camps.
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Key Takeaways
The project team will use the input collected through the community survey to inform and drive the PROS Plan update. Key takeaways from the survey data include:
Survey respondents’ most-used recreational facilities include paved walking/biking trails (used by 75% of respondents), large community parks (51%), small community parks (47%), small neighborhood parks (47%), natural areas/nature parks (45%), and playgrounds (42%).
Survey respondents’ least-used recreational facilities include skateboarding areas (used by 4% of respondents), outdoor fitness equipment (6%), football/lacrosse/hockey fields (7%), and youth softball fields (7%).
63% of survey participants indicated they travel outside of Auburn to access the recreational amenities/facilities they use most frequently. These facilities include other (nearby) city parks (29%), walking/hiking trails (17%), water access (8%), and indoor community centers (6%). These responses suggest there could be a need for more of these facility types in the City of Auburn, or a need to improve those that already exist within the city.
Barriers to use indicate existing issues that need to be addressed by the City in order to improve Auburn parks users’ experience. The largest barriers to use of the City’s available recreation facilities or programs, as reported by survey respondents, are security/safety concerns (57% of respondents), poor maintenance/cleanliness (31%), and overcrowded/booked facilities (20%).
According to survey respondents, the City of Auburn’s biggest parks and recreation needs include:
• More non-motorized urban trails/sidewalks (92.5% of respondents)
• Undeveloped natural areas/open space (86.4%)
• Community centers/indoor facilities (84.5%)
• Splash/spray parks (80.2%)
• More youth programs/camps (77.9%)
• Off-leash dog parks (69.9%)
City of Auburn Parks, Recreation, Open Space & Trails Plan Update | Public Involvement 55 | Public Involvement 55City of Auburn Parks, Recreation, Open Space, & Trails Plan
Demand & Needs
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The purpose of the demand and needs analysis is to evaluate, quantify, and understand the current and future demand for recreational facilities and parkland. This analysis also identifies the existing and anticipated needs for providing parkland, facilities, and open spaces, both now and in the future. “Needs” in this context includes both the preservation of existing services and resources, as well as the projected future requirements based on population forecasts and economic outlooks. This update reflects the community’s needs, desires, and recommended priorities, establishing a foundation for the next 6 to 10 years. It also outlines longer-term aspirations for the next 15 to 20 years.
Quantifications vs
Qualifications
Traditionally, quantitative standards have been used to assess the need for and identify potential actions to acquire or develop additional parks and recreation elements. Based on the National Recreation and Park Association’s (NRPA) guidelines and its online database “Park Metrics,” simple comparisons of adequate land, derived from normalized averages across the country, were used to determine the minimum amount of
parkland required to effectively provide parks and recreation services. While this plan is primarily focused on the needs identified by the public, it also evaluates the recreational demands of the City of Auburn using traditional level-of-service (LOS) standards, recreation trends, and a gap analysis of access within the current park system. However, while quantifiable metrics allow for straightforward comparisons, they fall short when it comes to understanding the “quality” of life that a community expects or demands. Developing strong strategies and identifying potential improvements requires engaging with community members through surveys, public meetings, and other forms of public consultation. The previous section of this report outlines this process in detail. This section concludes with a comparison of the quantitative and qualitative findings to refine a methodology for testing and ultimately selecting improvements that will enhance Auburn’s quality of life, aligned with its demonstrated values and preferences.
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Park Equity & Access
To better understand where the demand and need for park lands should occur, a service area map was created on the following pages that identifies the current service area of each existing park and the new service areas created by proposed improvements.
To develop the service maps, Open Street Map data was used to identify and verify known sidewalk data and the City’s transportation grid that the City of Auburn provided. Sidewalks are considered to be safe walking routes. All the existing access points to each existing park and/or trail space were digitized and a network analysis of the safe walking routes to each access point was developed. The analysis would initially stop even if the end of a sidewalk was encountered before the 10-min range (approximately 1/2 mile) was reached.
A second analysis ignored the known sidewalks and trails but followed the City’s existing transportation grid, essentially identifying known gaps in the walkshed that could be addressed by extending existing sidewalks.
Additional maps on pages 60 and 61 highlight specific areas of the City where residents identified gaps in the current park system, with a particular emphasis on the need for more sports fields, courts, and other recreational amenities, as indicated through public involvement responses.
The “10-Min Walk” Metric
A 10-minute walk is considered an important park access metric for several reasons. A 10-minute walk (approximately 1/2 mile on level ground) as a park access metric is important because it promotes physical activity, equity, sustainability, social interaction, and overall community well-being (see ‘Benefits of the 10-min Walk’ on the next page.) It aligns with various health, environmental, and social goals the City has and should encourage staff and policymakers to prioritize accessible green spaces as a fundamental part of Auburn’s development and the community’s desired quality of life.
The figure on the following page identifies the service areas, AKA the 10-minute “walksheds”, for each existing park as well as showing the current gaps on the page after that.
Gap Analysis
As outlined in the Goals & Objectives and related policies, ensuring that residents have fair and easy
access to parks located within a half-mile of their homes is crucial for the overall health and well-being of the community. This previous figure offer insights into population density and conducts a network analysis of park accessibility. This analysis examines each property’s ability to reach a nearby park within a half-mile, either via a street or a trail. The service area maps are designed to demonstrate how accessible parks with various amenities are to the community and how accessibility could be enhanced through improvements to parks that currently offer limited amenities. It’s worth noting that these accessibility gaps can be reduced by ensuring safe access to parks can be increased with new sidewalks and transportation improvements.
City of Auburn Projections
The City of Auburn, out of 635 named cities and populated areas, is currently ranked #14 in the list of cities in the State of Washington based on population size, and is located in the county with the highest desnity of people living per sq mile.
The Office of Financial Management (OFM) predicts population projections under the Growth Management Act (GMA) to accommodate growth over the next 20 years. While the most recent census data available is from 2020, it shows the population has grown to over 88,000. The rapid growth experienced during the ‘90’s and ‘00’s may have slowed, but Auburn remains an attractive community known for its family-oriented, small-town atmosphere. With affordable housing compared to most of King County, convenient highway access, and a charming small-town feel, Auburn is poised for continued, stable growth that will support the demand for recreational facilities.
Recreation Trends
Outdoor recreation is on the rise nationwide, and Washington State and all its communities is no exception. Since 2019, and especially throughout the Covid pandemic, outdoor recreation equipment sales saw a significant increase across all major product categories. In Washington, there has been a notable surge in the participation rates of 20 outdoor activities since 2017. Among these activities, non-motorized trails, nature and wildlife viewing, camping, paddling, winter recreation, and leisure activities in nearby parks are consistently in high demand among Washington residents. With an expected statewide population increase of 2 million residents in the next 25 years, it’s more critical for cities such as Auburn to plan for the future demand on outdoor recreation facilities.
Outdoor recreation not only supports local economies
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but also connects people with the natural world, promoting physical and mental well-being. With the rise of work-from-home arrangements post-pandemic and housing shifts from larger cities to smaller communities, residents are increasingly seeking convenient access to a variety of outdoor experiences, both developed and primitive, that allow them to integrate nature-based recreation into their busy schedules while avoiding crowds and traffic.
However, striking a balance between providing access to outdoor recreation and safeguarding natural and cultural resources remains a significant concern statewide. The heavy concentration of outdoor recreation at popular sites has led to resource degradation and reduced user satisfaction. Many communities face disparities in access to meaningful outdoor recreation opportunities, and residents often struggle with the time, cost, and information needed to support their outdoor pursuits. As the state aims to promote equitable access to the social, health, and economic benefits of outdoor recreation, a careful approach to outdoor recreation management is essential to ensure the protection of natural and cultural resources.
2030 Statewide
Comprehensive Outdoor
Recreation Plan
The 2023 Recreation and Conservation Plan, or commonly referred to as the Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP), is a comprehensive document outlining the state’s vision for outdoor recreation and public land conservation. Developed by the Recreation and Conservation Office (RCO), the plan guides investments for the next 5-10 years. It considers challenges and benefits of outdoor recreation, assesses current demand, and inventories existing opportunities. By establishing statewide priorities and goals, the plan serves a crucial role in securing funding, guiding investments strategically, and fostering collaboration between land managers. Public input through surveys and outreach ensures the plan reflects the needs of Washington residents. Ultimately, the WA State RCO SCORP Plan serves as a blueprint for a sustainable future where outdoor recreation and public lands are preserved and accessible for all.
RCO’s 2022 Assessment of
Resident Demand
In the 2022 Assessment of Resident Demand report, participation rates for 45 activities were compared to 2017. All but two of those activities (Technology-based
games and Collecting or Gathering Things in Nature) showed an increase in participation. Activities that had the greatest increase in participation include the following:
Wildlife or nature viewing increased by 28%
Paddle sports increased by 28%
Visiting outdoor cultural or historical facility increased by 27%
Tent camping (undeveloped area) increased by 26%
Backpacking increased by 25%
Playing yard games (in a park) increased by 25%
Snowshoeing increased by 23%
Tent camping (developed area) increased by 19%
Hanging out (in a park) increased by 19%
Mountain biking increased by 18%
The SCORP document classifies Auburn within the ‘Seattle King” region, encompassing King CVounty soley. Note that a portion of Auburn stretches into Pierce County. Regardless, the SCORP survey reveals a significant trend – “walking in a park or trail setting” that boasts the highest participation rate in the region (92% compared to the statewide average of 82%). This preference for walking holds true across diverse demographics, including age, gender, race, and income groups. An interesting observation is the increasing popularity of walking as a recreational activity since the previous RCO survey in 2012. Additionally, participation in boating and swimming has also risen, with swimming now ranking among the top 10 recreational activities in the Seattle King region. Other favored activities include nature-based pursuits like visiting rivers, streams, and beaches, wildlife viewing, attending outdoor events like farmer’s markets and fairs, and day hiking. These findings from the SCORP planning outreach program align with the trends identified in state-level surveys, underscoring the importance of walking/hiking opportunities and nature-based recreation in King County.
Trails
Trails, both within parks and connecting parks, schools, shops, and destinations are generally the top demand seen across the country. Providing trail connections between these popular destinations enhances a community’s walkability and encourages active lifestyles. Trail usage has seen a significant uptick in recent years, with data suggesting a surge starting in 2020. Recent studies by both American Trails report increases ranging from 79% to 171% and can
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attributed to several factors, especially as a response to the COVID-19 pandemic. With access to traditional forms of exercise and leisure activities significantly impacted due to closures and safety concerns, many people turned to outdoor recreation, including hiking and other trail-based activities as safe and accessible options. This trend has continued post-pandemic, with increased trail use likely due, in part, to the population continuing to seek alternative ways to exercise and maintain mental well-being.
While some pandemic restrictions have eased, evidence from the National Parks Service and the Washington State SCORP suggests a continued rise, or at least a steady hold, in trail use. This trend underscores the growing importance of well-maintained trail networks. This applies not just within parks themselves, but also in connecting parks and open spaces together. As demand for these outdoor spaces rises, so too does the need for additional supporting infrastructure to ensure their continued enjoyment by all.
Canines
The trend of dog ownership in the United States is experiencing a significant upswing, with estimates suggesting a population exceeding 89 and 94 million canine companions nationwide. This surge translates to a parallel rise in demand for designated dog parks across the country. These parks, particularly larger facilities, have become popular destinations, attracting dog owners and potentially boosting agency revenue through user fees and contributing to tourism. In Washington State, the growing human-canine bond is likely influencing public land use plans. With dogs increasingly viewed as cherished family members, especially in urban environments, families are actively seeking opportunities to include their furry companions in outdoor activities. Cities are likely taking note of this trend, potentially leading to the inclusion of designated dog walking areas or off-leash spaces within their planning strategies.
Pickleball & Padel
The participation in pickleball has witnessed a remarkable surge, growing by 159% in just three years, reaching 8.9 million participants in 2022, as reported by the Sports & Fitness Industry Association.
This swift expansion has presented challenges for public parks and recreation departments, which must strike a balance between the competing interests of diverse recreational activities while working within
constraints of limited space and budgets. Parks agencies are becoming more confronted with the task of accommodating pickleball enthusiasts, who favor this tennis-like sport with a smaller court, without causing discomfort or inconvenience to others. The noise and disruption generated by pickleball is becoming more a source of frustration for some neighbors, tennis enthusiasts, parents with young children, and other community members.
In various towns and cities, homeowners’ associations and local residents have begun to impose restrictions on pickleball activities and thwart the construction of new courts. They have initiated petitions, pursued legal actions, and voiced their concerns at council and town hall meetings, all in an effort to temper the widespread enthusiasm for pickleball and its unique auditory characteristics.
Similar to pickleball, Padel is a racket sport of Mexican origin gaining popularity across the United States. This game is a cross between tennis, racquetball, and squash. It’s currently estimated that Padel has over 100,000 players in the United States, and the number of courts has more than doubled in the last two years, expecting to grow to 30,000 courts by 2030. It is expected that the sport will grow substantially in communities with growing Hispanic populations, including Auburn.
Youth Sports
Participation in youth sports leagues has undergone a complex transformation in recent years. While traditional team sports remain popular, data suggests a decline in children (ages 6-12) consistently playing on teams. The Aspen Project reports a drop from 45% in 2008 to 38% in 2018, and the Sports & Fitness Industry Association (SFIA) confirms this trend with a 6% decline in core participation (ages 6-17) between 2019 and 2022. This translates to roughly 1.2 million fewer participants. Several factors may contribute to this decline, including the financial burden of participation fees, equipment, and travel expenses, concerns about over-specialization leading to burnout, and time constraints due to competing academic and extracurricular demands.
This changing landscape has potential implications for the need for large regional sports facilities. While the decline in regular participation suggests a decreased demand for facilities solely focused on traditional team sports, total team sports participation (including those playing at least once a year) remained stable between 2019 and 2022, suggesting a potential shift towards less structured forms of sports involvement. Basketball continues to be the most popular sport, with nearly a
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quarter of youth (ages 6-17) participating at least once in 2022.
Multi-sport facilities catering to a wider range of activities and hosting tournaments or events attracting teams from a broader area are expected to see continued use. Well-designed facilities could also become community hubs, offering recreational activities for all ages and potentially incorporating amenities like fitness centers or indoor walking tracks that would noit be affected by inclement weather.
The future of youth sports will require adaptation in programs. Focusing on fun and inclusivity, offering flexible scheduling and shorter seasons, implementing strategies to reduce financial barriers, e.g. developing parks districts to help cover long-term operating & maintenance costs, and promoting foundational athletic skills applicable to various sports are all crucial considerations. By adapting to these trends, youth sports programs can ensure they continue to play a vital role in promoting physical activity, social development, and positive health outcomes for children.
Playground Trends
Modern playground design reflects a growing emphasis on inclusivity, fostering connections with nature, and catering to a wider range of users. A key trend to note is the creation of inclusive playgrounds, ensuring accessibility for children with various abilities through features like ramps, sensory panels, and equipment that accommodates different physical and cognitive needs.
Playgrounds are also increasingly designed to mimic natural environments, incorporating elements like logs, boulders, and water features. This reconnection with nature encourages open-ended and imaginative play.
The concept of multigenerational playgrounds is also gaining traction, offering adult fitness equipment and interactive features that promote intergenerational play within families and communities. Grant programs such as AARP’s FitLot program is a great example.
Sensory play experiences are being actively integrated through musical instruments, textured panels, and fragrant plants. These elements stimulate different senses, enriching the play experience and catering to children with special needs.
While still emerging, some playgrounds are exploring seamless technology integration through augmented reality or interactive elements, adding a new layer to physical play.
Recognizing the limitations of shrinking green spaces in downtown cores or within communities, there’s a growing focus on “playgrounds within reach.” This involves maximizing the play value of smaller spaces through multifunctional equipment, innovative design, and better integration with surrounding areas.
Overall, these trends highlight a shift towards playgrounds that are not just fun, but also inclusive, educational, and promote holistic development in children.
Electrification
As electric technology develops, maintenance equipment, vehicles, mowers, and other equipment used in parks and recreation are transitioning from gas powered resources to electric assets. This transition provides long-term cost savings, environmental benefits, and decreased noise. Additionally, parks and trailheads should consider the addition of EV charging stations in parking lots, as the number of EV cars on the road continues to grow. Washington State has led this transition to electric vehicles, with over 18% of new cars sold in the first half of 2023 being fully electric or plug-in hybrids according to the Seattle Times. Vehicle chargers located at park facilities enable drivers to engage with park facilities while waiting for a full charge.
Climate Resiliency
The concept of electrification pertains to growing needs for climate resilience and the ways in which future park implementations can accommodate the increase of hotter days and nights, as well as the increase of storm and wildfire impacts. Parks create a great opportunity to address these goals through smart design and engineering. Parks and open space can mitigate urban heat islands, absorb flood and stormwater, and create fire breaks through green space and linear trail corridors. Climate change, stormwater/flooding implementations, and tree canopy coverage should be considered in future park renovations to increase resiliency.
Funding Threats &
Availability
Funding for parks and municipal recreation services has been forced into a creative shift as municipalities have been forced to seek additional ways to fund operation and improvements. Long-standing grant and funding assistance programs have repeatedly come under threat at both the federal and state level. Congress let the Land and Water Conservation
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Fund (LWCF) expire in 2015 for the first time in 50 years. In response to public outcry, several members in Congress fought for a short-term solution: an emergency authorization of three years. In 2016, Congress had another opportunity to permanently reauthorize LWCF, thanks to legislation championed by Washington’s own Senator Maria Cantwell in the Energy Bill. While LWCF initially failed under the past administration, in September 2021, LWCF was permanently authorized with full funding through the Dingell Act. This act directed a significant portion of offshore oil and gas royalties to the LWCF for the preservation of public lands, waters, and recreational opportunities.
Since then, specific funding levels and appropriations for the LWCF have varied from year to year as part of the federal budgeting process. Funding for the LWCF depends on annual appropriations by Congress, hence the program’s budget and funding levels can be subject to changes and priorities set by the federal government.
Investments in Parks Will
Rise
Across other municipal agencies statewide, investment in state and local infrastructure, which had been depressed since the Great Recession of 2008, and especially since the COVID-related stimulus packages, e.g., ARPA, increased federal funding has helping that fund public works and park and recreation infrastructure improvements, such as buildings, restrooms, and roads.
State and local spending is up nearly 10 percent from last year, according to data from the Commerce Department, and spending on capital outlays continues to grow. The Commerce Department data also show that spending on amusement and recreation facilities is up 31 percent from a year ago. It appears that economic conditions will remain favorable for new investments in park and recreation infrastructure if local and state tax collections continue to rise and interest rates remain relatively low. Building on the momentum of the past few years, local and state governments will make even more park and recreation infrastructure investments in buildings, playground equipment, roads and bridges, and capital repairs to aging infrastructure, topping the highest level of infrastructure spending since the recession of 2008.
Level-of-Service (LOS)
To evaluate how different types of parks align with a community’s desires, the National Recreation & Park Association (NRPA) developed and maintains simple demand standards as a guideline for identifying the number of park facilities potentially needed per community. While there are various methods to assess the service standards of a park system, the NRPA’s standards focus primarily on comparing population size to the number and types of parks or recreational amenities offered. Traditionally, the ratio of land acres per thousand people has been a widely adopted measure. However, this metric provides only a limited evaluation of a park system. A more comprehensive approach to determining service standards should consider the distribution of land and facilities throughout the community, the per capita value of the system, the availability of programs for all demographics, the characteristics of the park user base, the quality and upkeep of facilities, and, most importantly, public perception of the park system as an indicator of quality of life. Recognizing that the vision, values, and needs of each community are unique, planners have acknowledged that simply applying local level-of-service (LOS) standards to a national benchmark is not an effective means of evaluating a community’s specific needs and vision. Consequently, NRPA’s LOS standards have evolved in recent decades, now recommending that each community develop its own standards based on local goals, priorities, and conditions.
NRPA Recommendations
The National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) provides guidelines for Level of Service (LOS) standards, which help communities determine appropriate targets for parks and recreational facilities based on population. However, it’s important to note that NRPA has moved away from prescribing specific numeric LOS standards (traditional benchmarks) for all communities, recognizing that each community has unique needs and contexts. Instead, they emphasize using data-driven approaches, including benchmarking against similar communities, community input, and local conditions to determine the appropriate LOS. For communities with populations of 85,000 to 100,000 residents, the NRPA suggests the following general recommendations:
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Total Parkland per 1,000
Residents
Traditional Benchmark: Historically, a common benchmark was to provide around 10 acres of parkland per 1,000 residents. However, this is no longer a one-size-fits-all recommendation. Communities are encouraged to set their own targets based on factors such as geographic constraints, population density, and specific recreational needs.
Contemporary Approach: Communities might set goals ranging from 5 to 20 acres per 1,000 residents, depending on their unique circumstances and priorities.
Park Access and Distribution
Accessibility: NRPA recommends that all residents should have access to a park or green space within a 10-minute walk (approximately 0.5 miles) from their home. This focus on accessibility ensures that park benefits are equitably distributed across the community.
Distribution: For larger communities, ensure that parks are evenly distributed across different neighborhoods and are easily accessible by diverse modes of transportation, especially safe walkable routes.
Programming and Services
Diversity: Communities should offer a wide range of recreational programs that meet the diverse needs of their population, including youth, adults, seniors, and special populations. This may include sports leagues, fitness classes, arts and culture programs, and environmental education.
Staffing Levels
Staffing is crucial for maintaining facilities and delivering quality programming. NRPA provides guidance on staffing ratios, often suggesting a mix of full-time, part-time, and seasonal staff based on the size and scope of the park system.
Staffing by Park Acreage Benchmark: NRPA recommends approximately 1 full-time equivalent (FTE) maintenance staff member per 10 to 20 acres of developed parkland. This number can vary depending on the complexity of the park, the intensity of maintenance required, and the specific facilities within the park (e.g., sports fields, playgrounds, trails).
Programming and Operations Staff: For every 50 to 100 acres of parkland, NRPA suggests having 1 FTE
dedicated to programming and operations. This staff is responsible for organizing events, managing facilities, and overseeing day-to-day operations.
Staffing by Number of Parks: NRPA recommends approximately 1 FTE staff member (including maintenance, administrative, and programming roles) per park, assuming the park is of average size and complexity. Smaller parks might not require a full-time staff member and could be maintained by part-time
Budget and Funding
NRPA annually surveys parks organizations across the country to provide quantitative data on several budget and funding metrics:
Per Capita Spending: NRPA Park Metrics reports suggest that the average spending per capita by park and recreation agencies across the U.S. is around $85-$90 per resident. However, this can vary significantly depending on the size of the city, regional cost of living, and specific needs of the community.
Operating Budget Per Acre: NRPA’s Park Metrics also indicate that the median operating expenditure is around $6,000 to $8,000 per park acre. This includes costs for maintenance, staffing, utilities, and other operational needs.
Capital Expenditures: A common benchmark is that capital expenses (new developments, major renovations, etc.) should be a significant portion of the overall budget. A rough guideline is allocating 20-30% of the total budget to capital projects, though this can fluctuate based on current needs and existing infrastructure.
Auburn’s Quantitative LOS
With NRPA’s recommendations in mind, a straightforward quantitative analysis of the City’s Level of Service (LOS) can be conducted. The following section evaluates Auburn’s current park system against expected NRPA benchmarks to identify current performance and future needs. Ultimately, these quantitative findings will be integrated with the public involvement findings to develop a customized set of LOS standards. This approach, grounded in extensive community engagement, ensures that Auburn’s parks and recreation system reflects the community’s priorities, whether that means more green spaces, enhanced sports facilities, expanded trails, or additional cultural amenities.
LOS Standards & Overview
Table 4.1 presents the current Level of Service (LOS) based on Auburn’s park classifications and recreational
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amenities inventory. The LOS analysis utilizes assumed low to median values for each category, considering Auburn’s current population of 90,096 (as of 2024) and a projected population of 114,540 by 2044. Below is an overview and guideline for LOS quantifications, structured around common park classifications and key recreational elements.
Total Parkland LOS Analysis
Overview: Currently, the City of Auburn boasts a
diverse portfolio of parks and recreation assets, totaling 57 sites and covering over 980 acres. This exceeds the lower end of the expected range for parkland based on NRPA guidelines. The NRPA typically recommends between 10 to 20 acres of parkland per 1,000 residents as a general standard. With Auburn’s current population of 90,096 (as of 2024), the expected median total acreage of parkland would range from approximately 900 to 1,800 acres. Auburn’s park system is therefore well-aligned with these recommendations, supporting the recreational needs of its residents today.
Table 4-1: Existing Facility Type & LOS Targets
Facility Type Current Recommended
Standard*
Current
Ratio
Current
Difference
Projected
Difference****
Park Classification
Mini-Parks (Pocket Parks)16.71 acres 0.25 to 0.5 acres 0.19 -0.06 -0.1
Neighborhood Parks 51.23 acres 1 to 2 acres 0.57 -0.43 -0.55
Community Parks 283.31 acres 5 to 8 acres 3.14 -1.86 -3.14
Open Space 321.42 acres 5 to 10 acres 3.57 -1.43 -2.19
Special Use Areas 307.69 acres Variable
Total Parkland 980.35 acres 10 acres 10.88 +0.88 -1.44
Total # of Parks 57 1 park per 2000 46 +11 -
Trails 21.96**.25 to .5 miles 0.24 --6.67
Recreation Amenity
Baseball/Softball Fields 7 1 per 5,000 18.02 -9 -13
Soccer Fields 4 1 per 10,000 9.01 -5 -11
Football Fields 2 1 per 20,000 to 25,000 3.6 -2 -4
Multi-use Fields 6 1 per 10,000 9.01 -3 -5
Basketball Courts 18 1 per 5,000 18.02 --5
Tennis Courts 8 1 per 4,000 22.52 -13 -20
Playgrounds 33 1 per 1,000 children under 12***18 +15 +3
Pickleball Courts 16 1 per 4,000 22.52 -6 -12
Volleyball Courts 2 1 per 10,000 9.01 -7 -9
Recreation Centers 1 1 per 25,000 3.6 -2.6 +3.5
Splash Pads 2 1 per 25,000 3.6 -1.6 -2.5
Dog Parks 2 1 per 50,000 1.8 --
Skate Parks 4 1 per 25,000 3.6 --.5
Golf Courses (18-hole)1 1 per 50,000 1.8 -1 -1
Community Gardens (Plots)16 1 per 10,000 9.01 +7 +5
Amphitheaters 1 1 per 50,000 1.8 -0.8 -1
* measured as acres per 1000 population
** Includes other trails maintained by others
*** Projected 2044 Population = 114,540
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Total Number: 57 Parks
NRPA Target Number of Parks Based on Population: 57 Parks
Total Acreage: 980.35 Acres
Average Size: 21.97 acres
NRPA Target Acreage Based on Population: 10-20 acres per 1000
Current LOS: 10.88 acres per 1,000 residents
Projected LOS: 8.56 acres per 1,000 residents
Auburn Target LOS: 10 acres per 1,000 residents or additional 164 acres of total parkland by 2024
Conclusion/Recommendations: Auburn’s current total acreage of parkland is generally within the expected range for a community of its size and physical context. However, when analyzing the distribution and average size of its park types, especially neighborhood and community parks, there are notable discrepancies compared to national standards. According to the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA), the recommended level of service (LOS) for community parks is between 5 to 8 acres per 1,000 residents. Auburn currently averages only 3.14 acres per 1,000 residents, which is below this recommended standard. For neighborhood parks, the NRPA suggests an LOS of 1 to 2 acres per 1,000 residents, but Auburn’s current average is just 0.57 acres per 1,000 residents. This indicates a significant shortfall in the provision of both neighborhood and community parks relative to the city’s population. Furthermore, the NRPA recommends 5 to 10 acres of open space per 1,000 residents, yet Auburn currently provides only 3.57 acres per 1,000 residents. When factoring in land managed by other organizations, such as King County’s Department of Natural Resources, this figure improves and aligns more closely with the recommended range. Auburn exceeds expectations in total acreage due to the significant footprint of its Special-Use Facilities. This surplus is largely attributed to the inclusion of extensive environmental areas and the golf course, both of which are managed differently from traditional parks and offer limited access to the general public. While reclassifying the golf course as open space might enhance Auburn’s Level of Service (LOS) for open space, the specific use, management practices, and limited public access associated with the golf course support its continued classification as a special-use area. In summary, while the overall size of Auburn’s park system aligns with general recommendations, there is a clear shortfall in the distribution of neighborhood
and community parks. Additionally, while the city maintains over 30 beautification areas that enhance its aesthetic appeal, these spaces do not replace the need for more neighborhood and community parks to meet national standards and adequately serve the recreational needs of Auburn’s residents.
Parklets / Mini Parks / Tot-Lots LOS
Analysis
Overview: These parks serve small areas, often a single neighborhood or part of one. They typically feature amenities like playgrounds, benches, and small open spaces with no restrooms. incorporating more parklets and mini-parks can be an effective strategy for addressing Level of Service (LOS) deficiencies, especially in urban areas where space is limited. These smaller parks can provide critical, but disconnected, green space, recreational opportunities, and social gathering spots within densely populated neighborhoods. They are often easier and quicker to implement than larger parks, making them a practical solution to improve accessibility and equity in park distribution. However, they generally require the same level of maintenance and operational purview as larger local or neighborhood parks and, factoring in the increased travel time, can potentially become a lrger burden on park staff.
Number: 13 Parks
Acreage: 16.71 Acres
Average Size: 1.28 acres
Target Size: Typically less than 1 acre.
NRPA Target LOS: 0.25 to 0.5 acres per 1,000 residents.
Current LOS (2024): 0.19 acres per 1,000 residents.
Projected LOS (2044): 0.15 acres per 1,000 residents
Draft NEW LOS: 0.25 acres per 1,000 residents
Projected Deficit (Acres): 11.29 acres
Service Radius: 1/4 mile or less
Conclusion/Recommendations: To address the projected decline in the Level of Service (LOS) for mini-parks, parklets, and tot-lots, it is recommended that the City prioritize the strategic addition of these smaller park facilities only as opportunities arise. Currently, the LOS stands at approximately 0.19 acres per 1,000 residents, which close to NRPA’s minimum of .25, but without intervention, this will decrease to 0.15 acres per 1,000 residents by 2044. To maintain an adequate LOS, the City should aim to add approximately 11 acres of new park areas in this classification by 2044, ensuring continued access to
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these essential recreational spaces for the growing population.
Neighborhood Parks LOS Analysis
Overview: Local or neighborhood parks serve as the recreational and social hubs of a neighborhood. These parks are designed to be accessible by foot or bicycle and typically feature amenities such as playgrounds, athletic fields, picnic areas, sports courts, and open play areas. Some parks may also include restrooms and other supportive facilities. Currently, there is a shortage of local or neighborhood parks based on current park classifications, but the total parkland acreage across the city exceeds the cumulative standard.
Number: 10 Parks
Acreage: 51.23 Acres
Average Size: 5.12 acres
Target Size: Generally 5 to 10 acres.
NRPA Target LOS: 1 to 2 acres per 1,000 residents.
Current LOS (2024): 0.57 acres per 1,000 residents.
Projected LOS (2044): 0.45 acres per 1,000 residents
Draft NEW LOS: 1 acres per 1,000 residents
Projected Deficit (Acres): 63.31 acres
Service Radius: 1/4 to 1/2 mile.
Conclusion/Recommendations: The current Level of Service (LOS) for neighborhood parks in Auburn is 0.57 acres per 1,000 residents, which is projected to decline to 0.45 acres per 1,000 residents by 2044. This projected LOS falls significantly below the recommended minimum standard of 1 acre per 1,000 residents. To meet this new standard by 2044, Auburn will need to add approximately 63 acres of new neighborhood parks. This strategic addition is critical to ensuring that the growing population has sufficient access to neighborhood park facilities, maintaining a high quality of life and community well-being.
Community Park Inventory and Needs
Analysis
A community park is planned primarily to provide active and structured recreation op- portunities for young people and adults. They often exceed 10 acres in size and may have sports fields, water bodies, gardens, nature trails or similar features as the central
focus of the park. Community parks can also provide indoor facilities to meet a wide range of recre- ation interests. They require more support facilities such as parking and restrooms than neighborhood parks. Community parks serve a much larger area than neighborhood parks and offer more facilities. Where there are no neighborhood parks, the community park can also serve the neighborhood park function. The community park service area covers a one to two mile radius.
Community Parks LOS Analysis
Overview: Community parks serve broader community needs, often featuring larger facilities or arrays of facilities types, e.g., tournament baseball field complexes, and a wider range of amenities, such as swimming pools, and community centers that are intended to support the entire community. The number of community parks a city like Auburn, WA, should have depends on several factors, including NRPA guidelines, local demand, and geographic considerations. The target acreage for community parks typically ranges from 20 to 50 acres per park or 5-8 acres per 1000 residents, according to NRPA guidelines. Using those metrics, Auburn, WA, should have about 2 to 4 community parks based on its population, with an ideal total acreage between 40 - 200 acres. This ensures that the parks are large enough to accommodate a variety of amenities, such as sports fields, playgrounds, walking trails, and open spaces, while serving a significant portion of the population effectively.
Number: 14 Parks
Acreage: 283.31 Acres
Average Size: 20.2 acres
Target Size: Generally 20 to 50 acres.
NRPA Target LOS: 5 to 8 acres per 1,000 residents.
Current LOS (2024): 3.14 acres per 1,000 residents.
Projected LOS (2044): 2.47 acres per 1,000 residents
Draft NEW LOS: 3.5 acres per 1,000 residents
Projected Deficit (Acres): 116.69 acres
Service Radius: 1 to 2 miles
Conclusion/Recommendations: The current Level of Service (LOS) for community parks in Auburn is 3.14 acres per 1,000 residents, but it is projected to decline to 2.47 acres per 1,000 residents by 2044. This anticipated reduction highlights a significant shortfall, with a projected deficit of over 116 acres in this park
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classification. To meet the needs of Auburn’s growing population and maintain the recommended LOS, the City will need to prioritize the addition of these 116 acres of new community parks by 2044. Future community park sites should be strategically selected in areas like West Hill and Lea Hill, where development is ongoing, and large gaps exist between existing parks. Additionally, other residential areas, particularly in the northeast and southeast corners of the City, are on the edges of existing service areas and will require new community park acquisitions and development as population growth continues. Two key sites, Jacobsen Tree Farm and the 104th Ave SE property along the Green River, offer significant potential for development into community parks. These sites account for 44 acres of undeveloped land that will be crucial in addressing the City’s parkland needs. The development of these areas into community parks will help close the gap in service coverage and ensure that Auburn’s residents continue to have access to ample recreational spaces, supporting the overall quality of life in the community.
Special Use Parks LOS Analysis
Overview: Unlike other recreational classifications, special use facilities serve very unique, often singular functions and include unique features that add depth and variety to the city’s recreational and open space amenities. By integrating these specialized spaces, Auburn creates a vibrant public landscape that reflects the city’s identity and enhances recreational opportunities for the community. Examples of these facilities include pocket landscape areas, community gardens, streetscapes, unique sections of the Environmental Park, viewpoints, historic sites, public art installations, and traffic islands.
Number: 14
Acreage: 307.69 acres
Auburn Average Size: 21.9 acres
Target Quanitity & Size: Varies depending on the facility type and use
Target LOS: Depends on community needs; not typically defined by a strict LOS but considered based on demand.
Service Radius: Typically serves the entire community or region.
Conclusion/Recommendations: Past and more recent survey comments indicate that residents have a strong desire to enhance the City’s aesthetics by increasing the planting of street trees, flowers, and
other greenery. Integrating these beautification efforts, along with the development of additional special-use areas as opportunities arise, presents a valuable chance to improve the overall appearance of the community. However, there are currently no specific targets or goals for purposefully developing more special-use areas. Introducing a significant number of small, specialized facilities could result in higher-than-expected maintenance and operational costs for the department. As development continues and additional land is acquired—including smaller, less usable areas within the public right-of-way—it is essential to remain vigilant in assessing these opportunities. Evaluating them for their unique, heritage, natural, and activity-centric qualities that could provide community value is recommended. The Parks Department should continue collaborating with relevant departments to ensure that landscaping standards support the inclusion of street trees and other plantings, further integrating existing green spaces and improving their connectivity. This will not only enhance the city’s aesthetics but also contribute to public safety. Additionally, encouraging the development of boulevard-style streets in key locations can further improve the visual appeal and functionality of the urban environment.
Natural Resource Areas and Greenways
(Open Space)
Overview: Open space areas are vital for protecting and preserving natural landscapes, wildlife habitats, and green corridors. The purpose of these amenities is to maintain natural landscapes, safeguard wildlife habitats, and protect critical natural infrastructure, while also providing residents with opportunities for passive recreation and environmental education, such as hiking and birdwatching. NRPA provides general guidelines for the amount and size of open space and natural areas within a community. Typically, these guidelines recommend that a city should maintain between 7 to 10 acres of open space and natural areas per 1,000 residents. For a city the size of Auburn, with a population of 90,096 (as of 2024), this would equate to approximately 630 to 900 acres of open space and natural areas. Currently, Auburn has 321 acres of dedicated open space areas. However, when considering other greenways and open spaces within the city that are not maintained by the City of Auburn, the total approaches the minimum target of 630 acres.
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Given Auburn’s current inventory of open space areas available to residents, the city is close to meeting the lower range of the NRPA’s recommendations for open space and natural areas. Auburn’s commitment to preserving these areas aligns well with NRPA guidelines, and the city’s existing acreage of natural areas and open spaces is well-positioned to support the ecological and recreational needs of its residents. This ensures that Auburn continues to provide valuable natural amenities as the community grows.
Number: 6 Open Space and Natural Areas
Total Acreage: 321.42
Average Size: 53.57 acres
Target Acreage: 630-900 Acres
NRPA Target LOS: 5 to 10 acres per 1,000 residents.
Current LOS (2024): 3.57 acres per 1,000 residents.
Projected LOS (2044): 2.81 acres per 1,000 residents
Draft NEW LOS: 4 acres per 1,000 residents
Projected Deficit (Acres): 136.58 acres
Service Radius: Typically regional, with users traveling farther to access these areas.
Conclusion/Recommendations: Auburn’s current Level of Service (LOS) for open space areas is 3.57 acres per 1,000 residents as of 2024. However, with the city’s projected population growth, this LOS is expected to decline to 2.81 acres per 1,000 residents by 2044. This decrease places Auburn below both the National Recreation and Park Association’s (NRPA) target LOS of 5 to 10 acres per 1,000 residents and the City’s draft new LOS standard of 4 acres per 1,000 residents. The decision to increase the LOS for open space reflects a growing recognition of the critical role these areas play in promoting climate change resiliency, managing flood hazards, supporting wildlife habitats, and mitigating the effects of urban heat on aging populations. As climate change continues to impact weather patterns, open spaces can serve as vital buffers, absorbing excess rainfall and reducing the risk of flooding, particularly in vulnerable areas along rivers and low-lying regions. Furthermore, open spaces provide essential habitats for wildlife, helping to preserve biodiversity within the city. These natural areas are increasingly important as urbanization encroaches on green spaces, putting pressure on local ecosystems. By expanding and protecting open space, Auburn can help ensure that wildlife populations continue to thrive, maintaining ecological balance and enhancing the natural beauty
of the community. In addition to their environmental benefits, open spaces are crucial for the health and well-being of Auburn’s residents, especially as the population ages. Access to nature has been shown to reduce the effects of heat islands in urban areas, where concrete and asphalt trap heat, leading to higher temperatures. These elevated temperatures can be particularly harmful to older adults, who are more susceptible to heat-related illnesses. Expanding open space provides shaded areas and cooling effects that are vital for protecting vulnerable populations. To meet the new LOS standard of 4 acres per 1,000 residents by 2044, Auburn will need to acquire and develop an additional 136.58 acres of open space. This strategic expansion is essential not only to meet recreational needs but also to ensure the city’s resilience in the face of climate change and urbanization. By investing in open spaces, Auburn can enhance its ability to manage environmental challenges, protect its natural heritage, and promote the long-term health and well-being of all its residents.
Trails LOS Analysis
Auburn, WA, boasts an extensive network of trails that weave through the city’s diverse landscapes, offering residents and visitors a range of recreational opportunities. These trails, often referred to as linear parks, typically follow natural and man-made features such as stream corridors, abandoned railroads, or power line easements. They serve multiple purposes, including providing pathways for walking, running, and biking, as well as creating interpretive areas, open spaces, and landscaped zones. The city’s trail system is designed with minimal development to preserve the natural environment, focusing on essentials such as trailheads, educational signage, benches, and picnic tables. However, in areas with more space, like wide power line easements, there is potential for more extensive development, allowing for a broader range of recreational uses while still maintaining the primary function of these linear parks.
Auburn currently has 21 different trail segments of varying purposes covering a total of 21.96 miles across the city, however 6.75 miles of those trails are within existing parks (see Table 2-5.)
Total Miles of Trails (All): .25 to .5 miles per 1000
Total Miles of Trails (All): .25 to .5 miles per 1000
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Expected NRPA Standard: .25 to .5 miles per 1000
Existing Ratio: Total: 0.28 mile/1,000
Existing Inventory: 21.96 Miles
Current Need: 0.0 Miles
Future Need (2044): 6.69 Miles
Conclusion/Recommendations: Auburn’s current ratio of 0.24 miles of developed trail parkland per 1,000 residents aligns closely with the minimum expected average. However, with the projected population increase, there is an anticipated need for an additional 6 miles of trails by 2044. Given the existing opportunities for new trail development and the high level of public interest in trails, it is recommended to slightly adjust the standard to 0.125 miles of developed trail parkland per 1,000 residents. Although Auburn’s current inventory of trails already exceeds the adopted standards, further expansion and development are essential to ensure connectivity across different areas of the city and beyond. The demand for an interconnected trail system is expected to grow, particularly as residents, especially post-pandemic, continue to express a strong interest in trails for recreation and as an alternative means of commuting, as identified in the Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP). This underscores the importance of enhancing Auburn’s trail network to meet the evolving needs of its community.
Future Trails/Linear Park Development:
There are several opportunities to develop additional trails and linear parks in Auburn providing local and regional trail systems. Considering the interest in trail activities as demonstrated by public invovlement results and national recreation trends, these additional trails are worth pursuing. Identified locations for potential loop trails within parks, new linear parks, or extensions of existing linear parks include:
BPA Power Line Easement (Lea Hill to Green River Road)
Green River TRail (Planned)
White River Trail (A Street to Interurban Trail)
Mill Creek Corridor
Rotary Park
Shaughnessy Park
Fulmer Park
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Goals & Objectives
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The Auburn Parks, Arts, and Recreation Department is dedicated to preserving the city’s natural beauty through a vibrant and well-maintained system of parks, open spaces, and trails. Our mission is to enrich the lives of Auburn’s residents by providing diverse recreational and cultural opportunities that foster a strong sense of community, promote health and well-being, and celebrate the unique natural landscapes that define our city. The goals and objectives outlined in this chapter have been meticulously crafted to align with the requirements of the Growth Management Act (GMA) and are the result of an extensive and thoughtful planning process. This process drew upon a range of valuable resources, including insights from the 2015 Park, Arts, and Recreation Open Space Plan, findings from the 2023 Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Survey, and input from dedicated Parks and Recreation staff. Additionally, we carefully analyzed recreation trends, participation rates, and the current state of our parks to ensure that these goals are both forward-looking and responsive to the evolving needs of our community. Through this comprehensive approach, we aim to create a park system that not only meets the present demands but also anticipates future growth and challenges. Our commitment is to maintain and enhance Auburn’s parks and recreation offerings,
ensuring that they continue to serve as vital community assets for generations to come.
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Goal 2: Provide a balanced mix
of passive and active recreation
opportunities to promote healthy
and balanced activities.
The Auburn Parks and Recreation Department recognizes the importance of offering diverse recreational opportunities that cater to all residents. To promote a healthy and balanced lifestyle, our goal is to provide a well-rounded mix of both active and passive recreation options. This approach ensures that everyone, regardless of their activity level, can enjoy and benefit from the City’s parks and recreational facilities.
Goal 2: Objectives
2A. Develop a park system that provides facilities for social, cultural and physical activities.
2B. Provide parks areas that accommodate passive recreation opportunities such as picnicking and walking.
2C. Provide park areas that accommodate active recreation such as ballfields, skate parks, spray parks, sports courts, etc.
2D. Track changing trends at the local, state, and national levels. Respond with appropriate programs and facilities to meet changing needs as funding and budgets are available and meet the level of service expectations of the residents of Auburn.
2E. Provide access to healthy foods through the continued operation of the Auburn Farmer’s Market and Community Gardens.
• GOAL 1: Serve all residents and
provide a broad range of programs
and facilities in order to serve
all residents regardless of age or
ability.
The Auburn Parks, Arts, and Recreation Department is committed to providing accessible leisure and recreational programs for all residents, with a focus on accommodating special needs. To ensure awareness of these programs, the City has adapted its marketing strategies, blending innovative social media with traditional outreach to engage the community effectively.
Goal 1: Objectives
1A. Provide a variety of recreation facilities and programs that will improve the physical and mental well being of community members.
1B. Provide a system of neighborhood and community parks so that residents live within a half mile walking distance to a developed park.
1C. Develop multi-use facilities to increase flexibility to meet recreational trends as demonstrated by community input.
1D. Continue to identify under-served segments of the population and develop programs that will satisfy unmet needs.
1E. Develop marketing strategies allowing the widest possible distribution of information concerning park facilities and recreation programs.
1F. Provide programs and facilities designed for maximum affordability to local residents.
1G. Continue to improve upon and expand the Fee Waiver and Scholarship Programs, where possible, to allow more low income youth and seniors to participate at reduced rates.
1H. Continue to improve access for the disabled and seniors by providing wheelchair ramps and other appropriate facilities in parks where they do not currently exist.
1I. Continue to maintain an open decision-making process that allows opportunity for resident input.
1J. Parks and Recreation Department staffing levels shall be sufficient to maintain and improve the existing cultural and recreation programs. As programs expand or additional parks are developed, the impact on current staff levels and the need for additional staff will be evaluated.
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Goal 3: Provide a system of high
quality parks that are well
maintained and aesthetically leasing.
Parks are one of the most visible public features in a City, their design and maintenance can influence people’s perceptions of the community. Long term maintenance, good design, and the use of high quality materials will all affect the appearance of a park for years to come.
Goal 3: Objectives
3A. Develop Level of Service Standards that are consistent with NRPA standards to assure that residents’ expectations are met.
3B. Parks shall be intentionally designed to require low maintenance, and low water and energy consumption. Higher maintenance features like fountains or annual beds are reserved for high visibility locations or as appropriate.
3C. Select environmentally friendly materials that are durable and aesthetically pleasing.
3D. Parks shall exhibit a “cared for” appearance through close attention to maintenance.
3E. In order to maintain parks in a safe and attractive condition, maintenance staff levels will be evaluated with additions of new park land or facilities.
3F. Renovate deteriorating features. Identify conditions that require redesign or construction of new facilities; schedule and budget necessary changes in the City’s Capital Facilities Plan.
3G. Conduct regularly scheduled inspections to identify necessary repairs and upgrades to ensure safe conditions.
Goal 4: Provide a park system that
contributes to a positive city image
for Auburn.
Auburn’s Comprehensive Plan contains goals and objectives to enhance the City’s identity by ensuring a quality visual environment. Parks are an effective tool in improving visual appearance, but many of Auburn’s parks are tucked away in residential neighborhoods, unseen and unknown except to residents. This lack of visibility hinders the parks from effectively contributing to the city’s overall appearance. Increased visibility and high quality design are paramount to “advertising” our community as a good place in which to live and work.
Goal 4: Objectives
4A. Select new park sites with high visibility and access. This may be accomplished by locating at least one side of larger parks along arterial streets.
4B. Increase the quantity of trees, shrubs and ground covers in parks.
4C. Continue to work on Tree City USA goals for better Urban Forestry design and tree preservation.
4D. Create a green spaces in the downtown core that will be a focal point for community activities and stimulate economic growth.
4E. Incorporate artwork as part of new park development or when upgrading existing parks or other public facilities.
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Goal 5: Acquire and manage
important open spaces in the City of
Auburn.
Undeveloped open spaces contribute to the well-being of our community in many ways. We value them for their ability to provide buffers from urban encroachment; to provide opportunities for recreation; to provide public access to creeks, rivers and other water bodies; to create distinctive settings within the city; to provide connections between different areas for both people and wildlife; as well as offering health and safety benefits.
Goal 5: Objectives
5A. Maintain and protect a system of forested corridors and buffers to provide separation between natural areas and urban land uses.
5B. Target significant open space areas in the City, with emphasis on their planning and acquisition. Target areas include the land along the Green and White Rivers, steep hillsides, Mill Creek Corridor and West Hill Watershed.
5C. Explore all possible funding mechanisms to enable the acquisition of open space on a regular basis to identify properties as they become available.
5D. City owned open space lands shall be accessible to the public wherever possible and appropriate.
5E. Provide adequate management and maintenance of public open spaces, ensuring their ability to provide environmental benefits and wildlife habitat.
5F. When mitigation is required, develop a monitoring and maintenance plan to ensure successful establishment.
5G. Involve the community in habitat restoration activities through the City’s annual Clean Sweep event, community service days, and an adopt a park program.
5H. Determine the ecosystem service value reach open space and park space continues to address climate resiliency goals.
Goal 6: Provide a network of
pedestrian and bicycle trails.
To enhance Auburn’s recreational and transportation infrastructure, we aim to create a comprehensive network of bike and pedestrian trails that serves both commuters and recreational users. This network will be strategically developed to connect key areas within the city and extend to neighboring communities. By prioritizing the acquisition of land, especially along the Green River, and focusing on trail designs that highlight Auburn’s unique natural landscapes, we can offer diverse experiences to residents and visitors alike. Our commitment also includes ensuring accessibility for all users, enhancing safety through thoughtful design, and implementing a cohesive wayfinding system. To sustain this network, securing ongoing funding for maintenance will be essential. Through these objectives, Auburn will establish a robust and interconnected trail system that promotes active transportation, environmental stewardship, and community well-being.
Goal 6: Objectives
6A. Develop a network of trails created or extended to provide adequate coverage for both commuting and recreational cyclists. Locations for east/west trails shall be identified and developed.
6B. Acquisition of land for the proposed Green River Trail shall continue to be a priority.
6C. Trail design and layout shall take advantage of unique natural locations and provide access to a variety of landscapes and habitats.
6D. Participate in planning activities for regional trails in South King County and North Pierce County.
6E. Explore possibilities for new trail connections between Auburn and neighboring communities.
6F. Develop and maintain trails to comply with Americans with Disabilities Act.
6G. Provide safe trail system by discouraging crime through environmental design concepts.
6H. Develop a standardized interpretive and way-finding program to be used through- out our trail system.
6I. Identify and provide funding to maintain existing trail systems.
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Goal 8: Establish park and trail levels
of service provided in the PROS plan.
To ensure Auburn’s parks and recreational spaces continue to meet the needs of a growing population, we are committed to maintaining a consistent level of investment per capita. Currently, the City provides over 10 acres of parkland per 1,000 residents, a standard we aim to uphold even as our community expands. By sustaining this investment, Auburn will preserve its high quality of life and ensure that all residents have ample access to well-maintained and accessible parks and green spaces.
Goal 8: Objectives
8A. Fields, Courts, Tracks, Gyms: Improve the equivalent population per Auburn facility type based on expected demand and need ideintified by public survey responses.
8B. Informal Recreation Facilities: Increase the number of Picnic Shelters, Off Leash Areas, Playgrounds, Paths, Community Gardens, Flexible Open Turf Areas, Gathering Spaces and Amphitheaters: Resident equivalent population per facility consistent with the current ratio.
8C. Trails: Increase the number of per trail miles to be consistent with .25 miles per 1000 residents.
8D. Parks: Maintain a minimum total parkland Level of Service (LOS) of over 10 acres per 1,000 residents, regardless of park classification.
Goal 7: Expand our existing park
inventory where level of service
standards are not being met, with an
emphasis on the West Hill and Lea Hill
areas of the City.
Our goal is to prioritize the development of community and linear parks with trail systems, focusing on larger, multi-use spaces to meet Auburn’s diverse needs. We will actively pursue funding to acquire and preserve key parklands, emphasizing shoreline properties for public access. To minimize land use conflicts, particularly in residential areas, we will implement thoughtful design and strategic placement. High-quality design standards will guide new park developments, supported by comprehensive Master Plans and public input. Additionally, we aim to create vibrant public gathering spaces in the downtown core to enhance community life.
Goal 7: Objectives
7A. Make the development of community parks and linear parks with trail systems a priority over small neighborhood parks when possible and appropriate.
7B. Apply for King County Conservation Futures and Recreation & Conservation Office grants and other available funding sources to acquire and preserve park land and natural areas.
7C. Acquisition of community amenities, such as shoreline property, shall be emphasized, to preserve or allow public access to these special places.
7D. Minimize land use conflicts between parks and other uses, and use sensitive design measures when locating parks in residential neighborhoods.
7E. Criteria for new park development ensures consistent high quality design meeting the needs of the community.
7F. Develop Master Plans for undeveloped park properties and incorporate future park development costs into the Capital Facilities plan as appropriate.
7G. Schedule public meetings as a part of the Master Planning process to ensure that residents’ voices are heard and needs are met when developing new parks.
7H. Develop public gathering spaces in the downtown core.
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Capital Improvement
Program
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The vision articulated in this PROS Plan is not only a mandate of the Growth Management Act but is also essential to enhancing the quality of life and driving economic development in the City of Auburn. This plan is both pragmatic, addressing the immediate needs of current residents, and forward-looking, preparing the park system to meet future demands while delivering economic, social, and environmental benefits. This section outlines the City’s approach to incorporating public feedback through a comprehensive Capital Improvement Program (CIP), presented initially in tabular form and followed by detailed descriptions of conceptual improvements planned for the next six years. Serving as a crucial blueprint, this plan significantly impacts residents’ quality of life via Auburn’s Parks & Recreation system. The effective administration of these services by the City’s limited staff requires a committed allocation of budget resources. Realizing this vision also depends on grant funding and the continued dedication of community volunteers. Annual investments in personnel, equipment, and supplies are vital for maintaining a diverse range of outdoor recreational opportunities, ensuring safety, and meeting public expectations. Aligned with Auburn’s strategic goals and integrated
into the principles of the Comprehensive Plan, this PROS Plan promotes a safe, healthy, and walkable community, cultural enrichment, and environmental conservation, reflecting the aspirations and quality of life desired by the city’s residents. This section emphasizes Auburn’s commitment to addressing public feedback and improving system deficiencies by detailing a comprehensive CIP. This program includes specific park-related projects and broader recommendations aimed at closing service gaps. The proposals, summarized in tables and elaborated upon in detail, outline enhancements and conceptual improvements scheduled for implementation over the next six years. Additionally, the inclusion of long-term visionary projects shows a readiness to seize opportunistic improvements based on market conditions or funding availability. At the core of this plan are key recommendations designed to address current challenges, anticipate future needs, maximize funding flexibility, and align with public preferences. It thoroughly considers the range of parks and recreation amenities available within the city, ensuring that Auburn’s park system evolves in a balanced and sustainable manner.
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Developing The Capital
Improvement Program
This plan spans a six-year period from 2024 through 2030, aiming to guide park and recreation improvements while also presenting a conceptual vision for additional long-term enhancements aligned with Auburn’s projected growth. It is designed to be flexible and dynamic, recognizing that funding availability, public needs, and political priorities may shift over time. As such, the plan is not a rigid script but rather a strategic guide adaptable to unforeseen opportunities that may better serve the public. The listed capital improvement projects are initially categorized into six-year and long-term (20-year) CIP lists based on specific recommendations. However, the implementation timeline is subject to various factors, including design and permitting durations, other critical public works projects, grant funding cycles, available budgets, and city staff capacity. These timelines are for planning purposes only and do not represent a commitment to implementation in any particular year. The plan should remain a living document, continually updated as conditions evolve. The CIP project list reflects public demand and needs, validated through input from city staff, commission members, and the City Council. The actual implementation over the next six years will depend on available funding, success in securing grants, and essential maintenance and repair needs. In developing the CIP, several aspects were considered to ensure it is robust yet flexible, capable of adapting to changing circumstances and opportunities.
Strategic Project Development
and Funding Opportunities
Improving the parks system is a collaborative effort, not solely reliant on city funding. Auburn should actively pursue grants and donations from various sources to maximize public investment in parks, recreation, and open space facilities. Specific improvements should be matched with appropriate Recreation Conservation Office programs, such as the Youth Athletic Field or Land Water Conservation Fund grants, which have a history of being funded. Additionally, many trail and access projects can integrate with Safe Route to School grants and other transportation-related projects. Combining park projects with transportation and economic development initiatives will enhance implementation flexibility and open up further funding opportunities from county, state, and federal programs.
Auburn’s Fascial Sources
Auburn, WA’s parks budget is supported by a diverse mix of funding sources. The City’s General Fund, which includes revenues from property and sales taxes, is a primary source of funding for the Parks, Arts, and Recreation Department. Additional revenue comes from fees collected for recreational programs, facility rentals, and special events. The City also actively pursues grants from sources like the Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office (RCO), King County Conservation Futures, and federal programs such as the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF). To address the demands of population growth, Auburn charges impact fees on new developments to fund the expansion of parks and recreational facilities. The budget is further supplemented by a portion of the Real Estate Excise Tax (REET) and a dedicated sales tax, which is 1/10th of 1% of the countywide sales tax. Occasionally, the City issues bonds for large-scale park projects, which are repaid over time. Additional funding comes from donations, sponsorships, and partnerships with local businesses, non-profits, and other governmental agencies, all of which contribute to maintaining and enhancing Auburn’s park system.
Estimate of Probable Cost
This CIP includes preliminary estimates of construction costs for recommended improvements at each park and city-wide. These estimates are intended for budgeting and scoping future design and construction projects and are subject to change based on site conditions, final design, and market circumstances. The estimates are based on current park master planning projects and include considerations for inflation, annual cost escalators, design contingencies, permitting, and other soft costs. However, staff time costs are not included in these estimates.
Performance and Monitoring
Auburn’s plan addresses the level of service and needs for parks, recreation, open spaces, and trails identified at the time of the plan’s creation. Recognizing the dynamic nature of communities and outdoor spaces, this plan is designed to be flexible and adaptable in its implementation. To monitor progress and adapt to changing circumstances, including new grant and funding sources, the following actions should be taken annually during the capital improvement budgeting cycle:
Annual Prioritization Review:
City staff and volunteers should conduct annual evaluations to determine if any changes to the park system are necessary, especially considering funding
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availability or demographic shifts.
Plan Update:
Beginning in early-to-mid 2030, a formal update process should engage Auburn residents, staff, and committee members to review changing service needs, propose new capital improvements, and renew eligibility for the Washington Recreation and Conservation Office (RCO) programs for the next performance period. By maintaining this proactive and adaptive approach, Auburn can ensure that its parks and recreational facilities continue to meet the evolving needs of its community.
Park Development:
The development of more mini-parks (under one or two acres) is not encouraged. Mini-parks have not been found to be as successful as larger community parks, because they tend to serve very small populations and are difficult and expensive to maintain. Developers may have the opportunity to develop neighborhood parks that are maintained by the local homeowners association but meet the City’s park standards.
Unforeseen Threats to the CIP
Strategy
Several unforeseen threats could impact the strategy and implementation of Auburn’s Capital Improvement Program (CIP):
Economic Downturns:
A significant economic recession could reduce available funding from local, state, and federal sources, impacting the ability to finance planned projects. Natural Disasters: Events such as earthquakes, floods, or wildfires could damage existing infrastructure and necessitate reallocation of funds for emergency repairs and rebuilding efforts. Pandemics or Public Health Crises: Situations similar to the COVID-19 pandemic could disrupt project timelines, reduce workforce availability, and shift funding priorities towards health and safety measures. Policy and Regulatory Changes: New laws or regulations at the local, state, or federal level could alter funding eligibility, increase costs, or impose new requirements on project implementation. Environmental Issues: Unforeseen environmental challenges, such as soil contamination or endangered species habitats, could delay or complicate project execution. Community Opposition: Public opposition or legal challenges to specific projects could result in delays or necessitate project modifications.
Technological Changes: Rapid advancements in technology may require updates to project plans or could render certain planned improvements obsolete. Market Fluctuations: Changes in the cost of materials and labor due to market volatility can significantly impact project budgets and timelines. Considering these potential threats, the CIP must remain adaptable, ensuring that Auburn can respond effectively to changing conditions and continue to meet the needs of its residents.
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Table 5-1: Capita;l Facilities Plan Projects & Financing
Municipal Parks Construction Fund
Capacity Projects:2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 Total
Auburndale Park II
Capital Costs - - $125,000 - $2,000,000 - $2,125,000
Funding Sources:
Fund Balance - - - - - - -
Grants (Fed,State,Local) - - - - $1,000,000 - $1,000,000
Other (TBD) - - $125,000 - $1,000,000 - $1,125,000
BPA Trail on Lea Hill
Capital Costs - - - - 150,000 - $150,000
Funding Sources:
Fund Balance - - - - 150,000 - $150,000
Grants (Fed,State,Local) - - - - - - -
KC Prop 2 - - - - - - -
Cedar Lanes Pump Track & Amenities
Capital Costs - - - - - - -
Funding Sources:
Fund Balance - - - - - - -
Grants (Fed,State,Local) - - - - - - -
Park Impact Fees - - - - - - -
Fulmer Park Playground Replacement
Capital Costs - - - - - - -
Funding Sources:
Fund Balance - - - - - - -
Grants (Fed,State,Local) - - 1,800,000 - - - 1,800,000
Park Impact Fees - - - - - - -
KC Prop 2 - - - - - - -
Game Farm Park Improvements
Capital Costs 200,000 - - - - - 200,000
Funding Sources:
Fund Balance - - - - - - -
Grants (Fed,State,Local) 200,000 1,500,000 - - - - 1,700,000
Park Impact Fees - 500,000 - - - - 500,000
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Table 5-1: Capita;l Facilities Plan Projects & Financing
Municipal Parks Construction Fund
Capacity Projects:2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 Total
Jacobsen Tree Farm Development
Capital Costs 125,000 5,000,000 - - 5,000,000 - 10,125,000
Funding Sources:
Fund Balance - - - - - - -
Grants (Fed,State,Local) - 1,000,000 - - 1,000,000 - 2,000,000
KC Prop 2 - - - - - - -
Other (TBD) - 2,000,000 - - 2,000,000 - 4,000,000
Park Impact Fees 125,000 2,000,000 - - 2,000,000 - 4,125,000
Lakeland Hills Nature Area
Capital Costs - - 400,000 - - - 400,000
Funding Sources:
Fund Balance - - - - - - -
Grants (Fed,State,Local) - - 200,000 - - - 200,000
Park Impact Fees - - 200,000 - - - 200,000
Miscellaneous Parks Improvements
Capital Costs 150,000 150,000 150,000 150,000 150,000 150,000 900,000
Funding Sources:
Fund Balance 50,000 50,000 50,000 50,000 50,000 50,000 300,000
Grants (Fed,State,Local) - - - - - - -
KC Prop 2 150,000 150,000 150,000 150,000 150,000 150,000 900,000
Park Impact Fees 100,000 100,000 50,000 50,000 50,000 50,000 400,000
Park Acquisitions/Development
Capital Costs 125,000 125,000 125,000 125,000 125,000 125,000 750,000
Funding Sources:
Fund Balance - - - - - - -
Grants (Fed,State,Local) - - - - - - -
KC Prop 2 125,000 125,000 125,000 125,000 125,000 125,000 750,000
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Table 5-1: Capita;l Facilities Plan Projects & Financing
Municipal Parks Construction Fund
Capacity Projects:2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 Total
Sunset Park Improvements
Capital Costs - - - - - - -
Funding Sources:
Fund Balance - - - - - - -
Park Impact Fees 350,000 - 1,500,000 - - - 1,850,000
Other (TBD) - - 500,000 - - - 500,000
West Hill Park Acquisition and Development
Capital Costs - - 750,000 1,000,000 - - 1,750,000
Funding Sources:
Fund Balance - - - - - - -
Grants (Fed,State,Local) - - 400,000 500,000 - - 900,000
Park Impact Fees - - 350,000 500,000 - - 850,000
Subtotal, Capacity Projects:
Capital Costs 600,000 5,275,000 ,550,000 1,275,000 7,425,000 275,000 16,400,000
Non-Capacity Projects:
Dykstra Footbridge
Capital Costs - - - - - - -
Funding Sources:
Fund Balance - - - - - - -
ARPA funding 40,000 - - - - - 40,000
Other (TBD) - - - - - - -
Fairway Drainage Improvement
Capital Costs 30,000 30,000 30,000 30,000 30,000 30,000 180,000
Funding Sources:
Fund Balance - - - - - - -
Grants (Fed,State,Local) - - - - - - -
REET 2 30,000 30,000 30,000 30,000 30,000 30,000 180,000
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Table 5-1: Capita;l Facilities Plan Projects & Financing
Municipal Parks Construction Fund
Capacity Projects:2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 Total
Forest Villa Park Improvements (previously Neighborhood Parks Improvement- ARPA)
Capital Costs - - - - - - -
Funding Sources:
Fund Balance - - - - - - -
ARPA funding - - - - - - -
Other (TBD) - - - - - - -
Capacity Projects 600,000 5,275,000 1,550,000 1,275,000 7,425,000 275,000 16,400,000
Non-Capacity Projects 30,000 30,000 30,000 30,000 30,000 30,000 180,000
Total Costs 630,000 5,305,000 1,580,000 1,305,000 7,455,000 305,000 16,580,000
Fund Balance 50,000 50,000 50,000 50,000 200,000 50,000 450,000
Grants (Fed,State,Local) 200,000 2,500,000 2,400,000 500,000 2,000,000 - 7,600,000
Grants - Private - - - - - - -
KC Prop 2 275,000 275,000 275,000 275,000 275,000 275,000 1,650,000
ARPA funding 40,000 - - - - - 40,000
Park Impact Fees 575,000 2,600,000 2,100,000 550,000 2,050,000 50,000 7,925,000
REET 2 30,000 30,000 30,000 30,000 30,000 30,000 180,000
Other (TBD) - 2,000,000 625,000 - 3,000,000 - 5,625,000
Total Funding 1,170,000 7,455,000 5,480,000 1,405,000 7,555,000 405,000 23,470,000
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MUNICIPAL PARKS CONSTRUCTION FUND (321)Capital Facilities Plan
Six Year Capital Facilities Plan, 2025-2030 Capital Projects Fund
Project Title: Brannan Park Improvements
Project No:
Project Type: Capacity
Project Manager: Thaniel Gouk
Description:
Activity:
2025 Year End
Funding Sources:Prior to 2024 2024 Budget 2025 Budget 2026 Budget Project Total
Municipal Parks Construction Fund - - - - -
Grants- Secured (Fed,State,Local)- - 300,000 - 300,000
Impact Fees - - - - -
REET - - - - -
Other - - - - -
- - 300,000 - 300,000
Capital Expenditures:
Design - - - - -
Right of Way - - - - -
Construction - - - - -
- - - - -
Total
2027 2028 2029 2030 2025-2030
Funding Sources:
Municipal Parks Construction Fund - - - - -
Grants- Secured (Fed,State,Local)- - - 1,000,000 1,300,000
Impact Fees - - - 500,000 500,000
REET - - - - -
Other - - - - -
- - - 1,500,000 1,800,000
Capital Expenditures:
Design - - - - -
Right of Way - - - - -
Construction - - - - -
- - - - -
Grants / Other Sources:
Court upgrades, trail improvements, and new synthetic fields.
Progress Summary:
Future Impact on Operating Budget:
Increased utility costs of $2,000; lessened maintenance requirements for grass fields.
Total Expenditures:
Total Funding Sources:
Total Expenditures:
Forecasted Project Cost:
Total Funding Sources:
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MUNICIPAL PARKS CONSTRUCTION FUND (321)Capital Facilities Plan
Six Year Capital Facilities Plan, 2025-2030 Capital Projects Fund
Project Title: Golf Course Maintenance Building
Project No:
Project Type: Capacity
Project Manager:
Description:
Activity:
2025 Year End
Funding Sources:Prior to 2024 2024 Budget 2025 Budget 2026 Budget Project Total
Municipal Parks Construction Fund - - - - -
Grants- Secured (Fed,State,Local)- - - - -
Bond Proceeds - - - - -
REET - - - - -
Other - - - - -
- - - - -
Capital Expenditures:
Design - - - - -
Right of Way - - - - -
Construction - - - - -
- - - - -
Total
2027 2028 2029 2030 2025-2030
Funding Sources:
Municipal Parks Construction Fund - 350,000 - - 350,000
Grants- Secured (Fed,State,Local)- - - - -
Bond Proceeds - - - - -
REET - 300,000 - - 300,000
Other - - - - -
- 650,000 - - 650,000
Capital Expenditures:
Design - - - - -
Right of Way - - - - -
Construction - - - - -
- - - - -
Grants / Other Sources:
Replace dilapited mainteance building at the Auburn Golf Course.
Progress Summary:
Future Impact on Operating Budget:
None
Total Expenditures:
Total Funding Sources:
Total Expenditures:
Forecasted Project Cost:
Total Funding Sources:
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MUNICIPAL PARKS CONSTRUCTION FUND (321)Capital Facilities Plan
Six Year Capital Facilities Plan, 2025-2030 Capital Projects Fund
Project Title: Auburndale Park II
Project No:gpbd05
Project Type:Capacity
Project Manager:Thaniel Gouk
Activity:
2025 Year End
Funding Sources:Prior to 2024 2024 Budget 2025 Budget 2026 Budget Project Total
Fund 321 -Unrestricted Fund Balance - - - - -
Grants- Secured (Fed,State,Local)- - - - -
Bond Proceeds - - - - -
REET - - - - -
Other TBD - - - - -
- - - - -
Capital Expenditures:
Design - - - - -
Right of Way - - - - -
Construction - - - - -
- - - - -
Total
2027 2028 2029 2030 2025-2030
Funding Sources:
Fund 321 -Unrestricted Fund Balance - - - - -
Grants- Secured (Fed,State,Local)- - 1,000,000 - 1,000,000
Bond Proceeds - - - - -
REET - - - - -
Other TBD 125,000 - 1,000,000 - 1,125,000
125,000 - 2,000,000 - 2,125,000
Capital Expenditures:
Design 125,000 - - - 125,000
Right of Way - - - - -
Construction - - 2,000,000 - 2,000,000
125,000 - 2,000,000 - 2,125,000
Grants / Other Sources:
Description:
Develop a Master Plan, improve the existing trail system and install signage and play structure.
Progress Summary:
Future Impact on Operating Budget:
Increased utility costs of $2,000
Total Expenditures:
Total Expenditures:
Total Funding Sources:
Forecasted Project Cost:
Total Funding Sources:
City of Auburn Parks, Recreation, Open Space & Trails Plan Update | Capital Improvement Progra 89
MUNICIPAL PARKS CONSTRUCTION FUND (321)Capital Facilities Plan
Six Year Capital Facilities Plan, 2025-2030 Capital Projects Fund
Project Title: BPA Trail on Lea Hill
Project No:gpbd23
Project Type:Capacity
Project Manager:Thaniel Gouk
Description:
Activity:
2025 Year End
Funding Sources:Prior to 2024 2024 Budget 2025 Budget 2026 Budget Project Total
Fund 321 -Unrestricted Fund Balance - - - - -
Grants- Unsecured (State RCO)- - - - -
Bond Proceeds - - - - -
REET - - - - -
Other (KC Prop. 2)*- - - - -
- - - - -
Capital Expenditures:
Predesign - - - - -
Design - - - - -
Construction - - - - -
- - - - -
Total
2027 2028 2029 2030 2025-2030
Funding Sources:
Fund 321 -Unrestricted Fund Balance - - 150,000 - 150,000
Grants- Unsecured (State RCO)- - - - -
Bond Proceeds - - - - -
REET - - - - -
Other (KC Prop. 2)*- - - - -
- - 150,000 - 150,000
Capital Expenditures:
Predesign - - 25,000 - 25,000
Design - - 125,000 - 125,000
Construction - - - - -
- - 150,000 - 150,000
Grants / Other Sources:
None
Develop a feasibility study related to constructability of a pedestrian trail linking the Jacobsen Tree Farm site to the west end
of Lea Hill. This trail would follow the alignment of the Bonneville Power Administration (BPA) transmission lines from 132nd
to 108th Avenue SE. Construction would be in phases based on constructability.
Progress Summary:
Future Impact on Operating Budget:
Total Expenditures:
Total Expenditures:
Total Funding Sources:
Forecasted Project Cost:
Total Funding Sources:
City of Auburn Parks, Recreation, Open Space & Trails Plan Update | Capital Improvement Progra 90
MUNICIPAL PARKS CONSTRUCTION FUND (321)Capital Facilities Plan
Six Year Capital Facilities Plan, 2025-2030 Capital Projects Fund
Project Title: Cedar Lanes Pump Track & Amenities
Project No:cp2127
Project Type:Capacity
Project Manager:Thaniel Gouk
Description:
Progress Summary:
None
Activity:
2025 Year End
Funding Sources:Prior to 2024 2024 Budget 2025 Budget 2026 Budget Project Total
Municipal Parks Construction Fund 49,805 371,143 - - 420,948
KC Youth Sports Grant (Secured)- 349,920 - - 349,920
Unsecured grant - - - - -
REET - - - - -
Park Impact Fees 63,914 271,586 - - 335,500
Total Funding Sources:113,719 992,649 - - 1,106,368
Capital Expenditures:
Design 54,557 - - - 54,557
Right of Way - - - - -
Construction 59,162 992,649 - - 1,051,811
Total Expenditures:113,719 992,649 - - 1,106,368
Forecasted Project Cost:
Total
2027 2028 2029 2030 2025-2030
Funding Sources:
Municipal Parks Construction Fund - - - - -
KC Youth Sports Grant (Secured)- - - - -
Unsecured grant - - - - -
REET - - - - -
Park Impact Fees - - - - -
Total Funding Sources:- - - - -
Capital Expenditures:
Design - - - - -
Right of Way - - - - -
Construction - - - - -
Total Expenditures:- - - - -
Grants / Other Sources:
Construct a bike park, pavilion/storage building, and restroom at Cedar Lanes Park. Bike park to include an asphalt pump track
and skills course.
Future Impact on Operating Budget:
Evergreen Mountain Bike Alliance completed the bicycle skills course in Spring 2023. Diversified Holdings NW completed the
pump track in early 2024. Pavilion/storage building and new restroom will be completed in Summer 2024.
2024 YE Estimate column includes
forward requests and BA#4 $150k Parks Impact
Fees. Please update expenditures portion
accordingly,
City of Auburn Parks, Recreation, Open Space & Trails Plan Update | Capital Improvement Progra 91
MUNICIPAL PARKS CONSTRUCTION FUND (321)Capital Facilities Plan
Six Year Capital Facilities Plan, 2025-2030 Capital Projects Fund
Project Title: Fulmer Park Playground Replacement
Project No:cp2128
Project Type:Capacity/Non-Capacity
Project Manager:Thaniel Gouk
Description:
Activity:
2025 Year End
Funding Sources:Prior to 2024 2024 Budget 2025 Budget 2026 Budget Project Total
Municipal Parks Construction Fund 201,190 - - - 201,190
Grants- Private - - - - -
State Grant - - - - -
Local Grant 25,000 - - - 25,000
Impact Fees - 100,000 - - 100,000
REET - - - - -
KC Prop 2 - - - - -
226,190 100,000 - - 326,190
Capital Expenditures:
Design - - - - -
Demolition 11,412 - - - 11,412
Construction 214,778 - - - 214,778
226,190 - - - 226,190
Total
2027 2028 2029 2030 2025-2030
Funding Sources:
Municipal Parks Construction Fund - - - - -
Grants- Private 600,000 - - - 600,000
State Grant 600,000 - - - 600,000
Local Grant 600,000 - - - 600,000
Impact Fees - - - - -
REET - - - - -
KC Prop 2 - - - - -
1,800,000 - - - 1,800,000
Capital Expenditures:
Design - - - - -
Demolition - - - - -
Construction - - - - -
- - - - -
Grants / Other Sources:
Replace existing grass athletic field with synthetic field and other miscellaneous park improvements.
Progress Summary:
Dilapidated playground structure was replaced with a larger one in 2023.
Future Impact on Operating Budget:
None
Total Expenditures:
Total Funding Sources:
Total Expenditures:
Forecasted Project Cost:
Total Funding Sources:
City of Auburn Parks, Recreation, Open Space & Trails Plan Update | Capital Improvement Progra 92
MUNICIPAL PARKS CONSTRUCTION FUND (321)Capital Facilities Plan
Six Year Capital Facilities Plan, 2025-2030 Capital Projects Fund
Project Title: Game Farm Park Improvements
Project No: cp1924, cp2212
Project Type:Capacity
Project Manager:Daryl Faber
Activity:
2025 Year EndFunding Sources:Prior to 2024 2024 Budget 2025 Budget 2026 Budget Project Total
Fund 321 -Unrestricted Fund Balance - - - - -
Grants- Unsecured State - - - 1,000,000 -
Grants- Unsecured Local -KCYSF 150,000 150,000 200,000 500,000 500,000
REET 1 964,476 - - - 964,476
Park Impact Fees 294,012 185,524 - 500,000 479,536
1,408,488 335,524 200,000 2,000,000 1,944,012
Capital Expenditures:
Design - - - - -
Right of Way - - - - -
Construction 1,416,628 - 200,000 - 1,616,628
1,416,628 - 200,000 - 1,616,628
Total
2027 2028 2029 2030 2025-2030
Funding Sources:
Fund 321 -Unrestricted Fund Balance - - - - -
Grants- Unsecured State - - - - 1,000,000
Grants- Unsecured Local -KCYSF - - - - 700,000
REET 1 - - - - -
Park Impact Fees - - - - 500,000
- - - - 2,200,000
Capital Expenditures:
Design - - - - -
Right of Way - - - - -
Construction - - - - 200,000
- - - - 200,000
Grants / Other Sources: King County Youth Sports Facilities Grant
Description:
None
Improve interior lighting and pathways and provide access from the newly acquired property on southwest corner of the park.
The project will also add lighting to pickleball and basketball court. New turf infields.
City completed resurfacing project on the turf fields in early 2021. 2022 budget will fund irrigation improvements. Future
improvements to include lighting for the pickleball and basketball courts; a grant has been applied for the lighting
improvements.
Future Impact on Operating Budget:
Progress Summary:
Total Expenditures:
Total Expenditures:
Total Funding Sources:
Forecasted Project Cost:
Total Funding Sources:
City of Auburn Parks, Recreation, Open Space & Trails Plan Update | Capital Improvement Progra 93
MUNICIPAL PARKS CONSTRUCTION FUND (321)Capital Facilities Plan
Six Year Capital Facilities Plan, 2025-2030 Capital Projects Fund
Project Title: Jacobsen Tree Farm Development
Project No:cp0609, cp2020
Project Type:Capacity
Project Manager:Daryl Faber
Activity:
2025 Year End
Funding Sources:Prior to 2024 2024 Budget 2025 Budget 2026 Budget Project Total
Fund 321 -Unrestricted Fund Balance 25,321 333,500 - - 358,821
Grants- Unsecured State - - - 1,000,000 -
King County Prop 2 14,165 - - 14,165
Park Impact Fees - - 125,000 2,000,000 125,000
Other (TBD)- - 2,000,000 -
39,486 333,500 125,000 5,000,000 497,986
Capital Expenditures:
Design 39,486 125,000 500,000 164,486
Right of Way - - - - -
Construction - - 4,500,000 -
39,486 - 125,000 5,000,000 164,486
Total
2027 2028 2029 2030 2025-2030
Funding Sources:
Fund 321 -Unrestricted Fund Balance - - - - -
Grants- Unsecured State - - 1,000,000 - 2,000,000
King County Prop 2 - - - - -
Park Impact Fees - - 2,000,000 - 4,125,000
Other (TBD)- - 2,000,000 - 4,000,000
- - 5,000,000 - 10,125,000
Capital Expenditures:
Design - - 500,000 - 1,125,000
Right of Way - - - - -
Construction - - 4,500,000 - 9,000,000
- - 5,000,000 - 10,125,000
Grants / Other Sources:
Description:
Progress Summary:
Develop the 29.3 acre site into a Community Park. A Master Plan for the park was completed in 2009 and an updated
drawing would need to be done to reflect updated community needs.
Future Impact on Operating Budget:
No significant impact due to master plan. Future park development will result in maintenance and utility expenses
undeterminable at this time.
Total Funding Sources:
Total Expenditures:
Total Expenditures:
Total Funding Sources:
Forecasted Project Cost:
City of Auburn Parks, Recreation, Open Space & Trails Plan Update | Capital Improvement Progra 94
MUNICIPAL PARKS CONSTRUCTION FUND (321)Capital Facilities Plan
Six Year Capital Facilities Plan, 2025-2030 Capital Projects Fund
Project Title: Lakeland Hills Nature Area
Project No:gpbd11
Project Type:Capacity
Project Manager:Daryl Faber
Activity:
2025 Year End
Funding Sources:Prior to 2024 2024 Budget 2025 Budget 2026 Budget Project Total
Fund 321 -Unrestricted Fund Balance - - - - -
Grants- Unsecured (Fed,State,Local)- - - - -
Bond Proceeds - - - - -
Park Impact Fees - 25,000 - - 25,000
Park Mitigation Fees - - - - -
- 25,000 - - 25,000
Capital Expenditures:
Design - 25,000 - - 25,000
Right of Way - - - - -
Construction - - - - -
- 25,000 - - 25,000
Total
2027 2028 2029 2030 2025-2030
Funding Sources:
Fund 321 -Unrestricted Fund Balance - - - - -
Grants- Unsecured (Fed,State,Local)200,000 - - - 200,000
Bond Proceeds - - - - -
Park Impact Fees 200,000 - - - 200,000
Park Mitigation Fees - - - - -
400,000 - - - 400,000
Capital Expenditures:
Design - - - - -
Right of Way - - - - -
Construction 400,000 - - - 400,000
400,000 - - - 400,000
Grants / Other Sources:
Description:
Increased maintenance costs of $5,000
Complete Master Plan to include the development and construction of an environmental community park. Trails, fencing,
parking and visitor amenities are included in the project.
Future Impact on Operating Budget:
Progress Summary:
Total Expenditures:
Total Expenditures:
Total Funding Sources:
Forecasted Project Cost:
Total Funding Sources:
City of Auburn Parks, Recreation, Open Space & Trails Plan Update | Capital Improvement Progra 95
MUNICIPAL PARKS CONSTRUCTION FUND (321)Capital Facilities Plan
Six Year Capital Facilities Plan, 2025-2030 Capital Projects Fund
Project Title: Les Gove Park Improvements
Project No:cp2232
Project Type:Capacity
Project Manager:Thaniel Gouk
Description:
Activity:
2025 Year End
Funding Sources:Prior to 2024 2024 Budget 2025 Budget 2026 Budget Project Total
Municipal Parks Construction Fund - - - - -
ARPA funding 28,626 79,430 - - 108,056
Grants- Secured (Fed,State,Local)- 100,000 - - 100,000
Bond Proceeds - - - - -
REET - - - - -
Other - - - - -
28,626 179,430 - - 208,056
Capital Expenditures:
Design - - - - -
Right of Way - - - - -
Construction 28,626 179,430 - - 208,056
28,626 179,430 - - 208,056
Total
2027 2028 2029 2030 2025-2030
Funding Sources:
Municipal Parks Construction Fund - - - - -
ARPA funding
Grants- Secured (Fed,State,Local)750,000 - - - 750,000
Bond Proceeds 750,000 - - - 750,000
REET 750,000 - - - 750,000
Other - - - - -
2,250,000 - - - 2,250,000
Capital Expenditures:
Design 100,000 - - - 100,000
Right of Way - - - - -
Construction 1,400,000 - - - 1,400,000
1,500,000 - - - 1,500,000
Grants / Other Sources:
Construction of a covered multi-use pavilion building at the south end of Les Gove Park. Uses could include pickleball, farmers market,
among others.
Progress Summary:
Future Impact on Operating Budget:
Increased utility costs of $2,000
Total Expenditures:
Total Funding Sources:
Total Expenditures:
Forecasted Project Cost:
Total Funding Sources:
City of Auburn Parks, Recreation, Open Space & Trails Plan Update | Capital Improvement Progra 96
MUNICIPAL PARKS CONSTRUCTION FUND (321)Capital Facilities Plan
Six Year Capital Facilities Plan, 2025-2030 Capital Projects Fund
Project Title: Miscellaneous Parks Improvements
Project No:various, gpbd03
Project Type:Capacity/Non-Capacity
Project Manager:Daryl Faber
Activity:
(Previous 2 Yrs.)2025 Year End
Funding Sources:Prior to 2024 2024 Budget 2025 Budget 2026 Budget Project Total
Fund 321 -Unrestricted Fund Balance 55,033 297,400 50,000 50,000 402,433
Grants- Unsecured State - - - - -
Local Grant - - - - -
KC Prop 2 - 50,000 150,000 150,000 200,000
Other (Park Impact Fee)25,000 213,869 100,000 100,000 338,869
80,033 561,269 300,000 300,000 941,302
Capital Expenditures:
Professional Services - - - - -
Right of Way - - - - -
Construction 80,033 561,269 150,000 150,000 791,302
80,033 561,269 150,000 150,000 791,302
Total
2027 2028 2029 2030 2025-2030
Funding Sources:
Fund 321 -Unrestricted Fund Balance 50,000 50,000 50,000 50,000 300,000
Grants- Unsecured State - - - - -
Local Grant - - - - -
KC Prop 2 150,000 150,000 150,000 150,000 900,000
Other (Park Impact Fee)*50,000 50,000 50,000 50,000 400,000
250,000 250,000 250,000 250,000 1,600,000
Capital Expenditures:
Professional Services - - - - -
Right of Way - - - - -
Construction 150,000 150,000 150,000 150,000 900,000
150,000 150,000 150,000 150,000 900,000
Grants / Other Sources:
Description:
Total Expenditures:
Total Expenditures:
Total Funding Sources:
Forecasted Project Cost:
Total Funding Sources:
Minor park improvements including shelters, roofs, playgrounds, irrigation and restrooms.
Project funding includes the Mill Pond Dock Improvement (cp1915) in 2019, funded $25,000 to help complete the West
Auburn Lake Park (cp1801) in 2020 and $35,783 for the Lea Hill Mini Soccer Field Turf replacement (cp2122) in 2021
Future Impact on Operating Budget:
Progress Summary:
City of Auburn Parks, Recreation, Open Space & Trails Plan Update | Capital Improvement Progra 97
MUNICIPAL PARKS CONSTRUCTION FUND (321)Capital Facilities Plan
Six Year Capital Facilities Plan, 2025-2030 Capital Projects Fund
Project Title: Park Acquisitions/Development
Project No:gpbd04
Project Type:Capacity
Project Manager:Daryl Faber
Description:
Activity:
(Previous 2 Yrs.)2025 Year End
Funding Sources:Prior to 2024 2024 Budget 2025 Budget 2026 Budget Project Total
Fund 321 -Unrestricted Fund Balance 39,183 80,000 - - 119,183
Grants- Secured (Fed,State,Local)- - - - -
Bond Proceeds - - - - -
REET1 647,050 - - - 647,050
KC Prop 2 - 125,000 125,000 125,000 250,000
686,233 205,000 125,000 125,000 1,016,233
Capital Expenditures:
Design - - - -
Acquisition 686,233 205,000 125,000 125,000 1,016,233
Construction - - - - -
686,233 205,000 125,000 125,000 1,016,233
Total
2027 2028 2029 2030 2025-2030
Funding Sources:
Fund 321 -Unrestricted Fund Balance - - - - -
Grants- Secured (Fed,State,Local)- - - - -
Bond Proceeds - - - - -
REET1 - - - - -
KC Prop 2 125,000 125,000 125,000 125,000 750,000
125,000 125,000 125,000 125,000 750,000
Capital Expenditures:
Design - - - - -
Acquisition 125,000 125,000 125,000 125,000 750,000
Construction - - - - -
125,000 125,000 125,000 125,000 750,000
Grants / Other Sources:
None
Land and other property acquisitions to occur based on demand and deficiencies including parks, open space, trails, corridors
and recreational facilities.
The City purchased the Auburn Avenue Theater and the Qares property in 2020.
Future Impact on Operating Budget:
Progress Summary:
Total Expenditures:
Total Expenditures:
Total Funding Sources:
Forecasted Project Cost:
Total Funding Sources:
City of Auburn Parks, Recreation, Open Space & Trails Plan Update | Capital Improvement Progra 98
MUNICIPAL PARKS CONSTRUCTION FUND (321)Capital Facilities Plan
Six Year Capital Facilities Plan, 2025-2030 Capital Projects Fund
Project Title: Sunset Park Improvements
Project No:
Project Type:Capacity
Project Manager:Daryl Faber
Activity:
2025 Year End
Funding Sources:Prior to 2024 2024 Budget 2025 Budget 2026 Budget Project Total
Fund 321 -Unrestricted Fund Balance - 88,161 - - 88,161
Grants- Secured (Fed,State,Local)- - - - -
Bond Proceeds - - - - -
Park Impact Fees 89,639 - 350,000 - 439,639
Other -Contributions & Donations - - - - -
89,639 88,161 350,000 - 527,800
Capital Expenditures:
Design - - - - -
Right of Way - - - - -
Construction 89,639 88,161 - - 177,800
89,639 88,161 - - 177,800
Total
2027 2028 2029 2030 2025-2030
Funding Sources:
Fund 321 -Unrestricted Fund Balance - - - - -
Grants- Secured (Fed,State,Local)1,500,000 - - - 1,500,000
Bond Proceeds - - - - -
Park Impact Fees 1,500,000 - - - 1,850,000
Other -Contributions & Donations 500,000 - - - 500,000
3,500,000 - - - 3,850,000
Capital Expenditures:
Design - - - - -
Right of Way - - - - -
Construction - - - - -
- - - - -
Grants / Other Sources:
Description:
Phse 2 improvements to include looking at options for new or modified court uses (e.g. pickleball). Phase 3 to include
replacing the grass base/softball fields with new multi-sport synthetic turf fields.
Future Impact on Operating Budget:
Less water use (Bonney Lake Water) for fields would save money for the City.
Progress Summary:
Total Expenditures:
Total Expenditures:
Total Funding Sources:
Forecasted Project Cost:
Total Funding Sources:
City of Auburn Parks, Recreation, Open Space & Trails Plan Update | Capital Improvement Progra 99
MUNICIPAL PARKS CONSTRUCTION FUND (321)Capital Facilities Plan
Six Year Capital Facilities Plan, 2025-2030 Capital Projects Fund
Project Title: West Hill Park Acquisition and Development
Project No:gpbd27
Project Type:Capacity
Project Manager:Jamie Kelly
Description:
Progress Summary:
Undetermined at this time.
Activity:
Funding Sources:Prior to 2024 2024 Budget 2025 Budget 2026 Budget
Municipal Parks Construction Fund - - - -
Local Grant (Unsecured)- - - -
Bond Proceeds - - - -
REET - - - -
Park Impact Fees - - - -
Total Funding Sources:- - - -
Capital Expenditures:
Design - - - -
Construction - - - -
Acquisition - - - -
Total Expenditures:- - - -
Forecasted Project Cost:
2027 2028 2029 2030
Funding Sources:
Municipal Parks Construction Fund - - - -
Local Grant (Unsecured)400,000 500,000 - -
Bond Proceeds - - - -
REET - - - -
Park Impact Fees 350,000 500,000 - -
Total Funding Sources:750,000 1,000,000 - -
Capital Expenditures:
Design - 150,000 - -
Construction - 850,000 - -
Acquisition 750,000 - - -
Total Expenditures:750,000 1,000,000 - -
Grants / Other Sources:
The City has been exploring local and state funding for acquisition and development. Staff to send out form letters to existing
property owners in an effort to gauge interest in selling suitable properties to the City.
Acquire property adjacent to Watershed property on the West Hill, and develop park. Park to be used as access to the trails on
the watershed property. Improvements to include parking, playground, restroom, and kiosks.
Future Impact on Operating Budget:
Capital Facilities Plan
Capital Projects Fund
2025 Year End
Project Total
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Total
2025-2030
-
900,000
-
-
850,000
1,750,000
150,000
850,000
750,000
1,750,000
The City has been exploring local and state funding for acquisition and development. Staff to send out form letters to existing
Acquire property adjacent to Watershed property on the West Hill, and develop park. Park to be used as access to the trails on
City of Auburn Parks, Recreation, Open Space & Trails Plan Update | Capital Improvement Progra 100
MUNICIPAL PARKS CONSTRUCTION FUND (321)Capital Facilities Plan
Six Year Capital Facilities Plan, 2025-2030 Capital Projects Fund
Project Title: Dykstra Footbridge
Project No:cp2214
Project Type:Non-Capacity
Project Manager:Faber
Description:
Activity:
2025 Year End
Funding Sources:Prior to 2024 2024 Budget 2025 Budget 2026 Budget Project Total
Municipal Parks Construction Fund - (10,525) - - (10,525)
ARPA funding - 400,000 40,000 - 440,000
Bond Proceeds - - - - -
REET - - - - -
Other - - - - -
- 389,475 40,000 - 429,475
Capital Expenditures:
Design - - - - -
Right of Way - - - - -
Construction - 389,475 - - 389,475
- 389,475 - - 389,475
Total
2027 2028 2029 2030 2025-2030
Funding Sources:
Municipal Parks Construction Fund - - - - -
ARPA funding - - - - 40,000
Bond Proceeds - - - - -
REET - - - - -
Other - - - - -
- - - - 40,000
Capital Expenditures:
Design - - - - -
Right of Way - - - - -
Construction - - - - -
- - - - -
Grants / Other Sources:
Total Expenditures:
Total Funding Sources:
Total Expenditures:
Forecasted Project Cost:
Total Funding Sources:
Engineering study was completed and results were better then expected. Most fixes have already been completed and
remaining items to be done by a contractor will expend the remaining ARPA monies not moving to the theater project.
Progress Summary:
Minor fixes by mainteance staff completed in 2023; remaining items will be completed in 2024.
Future Impact on Operating Budget:
None
City of Auburn Parks, Recreation, Open Space & Trails Plan Update | Capital Improvement Progra 101
MUNICIPAL PARKS CONSTRUCTION FUND (321)Capital Facilities Plan
Six Year Capital Facilities Plan, 2025-2030 Capital Projects Fund
Project Title: Fairway Drainage Improvement
Project No:gpbd19, cp2202, cp2302, cp2401
Project Type:Non-capacity
Project Manager:Daryl Faber
Description:
Activity:
(Previous 2 Yrs.)2025 Year End
Funding Sources:Prior to 2024 2024 Budget 2025 Budget 2026 Budget Project Total
Municipal Parks Construction Fund - - - - -
Grants- Secured (Fed,State,Local)- - - - -
Bond Proceeds - - - - -
REET 2 51,085 30,916 30,000 30,000 112,001
Other - - - - -
51,085 30,916 30,000 30,000 112,001
Capital Expenditures:
Design - - - - -
Right of Way - - - - -
Construction 51,085 30,916 30,000 30,000 112,001
51,085 30,916 30,000 30,000 112,001
Total
2027 2028 2029 2030 2025-2030
Funding Sources:
Municipal Parks Construction Fund - - - - -
Grants- Secured (Fed,State,Local)- - - - -
Bond Proceeds - - - - -
REET 2 30,000 30,000 30,000 30,000 180,000
Other - - - - -
30,000 30,000 30,000 30,000 180,000
Capital Expenditures:
Design - - - - -
Right of Way - - - - -
Construction 30,000 30,000 30,000 30,000 180,000
30,000 30,000 30,000 30,000 180,000
Grants / Other Sources:
Apply top dressing sand to the first five fairways in order to firm up these landing areas so that the holes are playable year round. Sand
will be applied with a three yard topdressing machine. Sand will be applied bi/weekly at a tenth of an inch of sand throughout the fairways.
Fairways will start to show improvements once four inches of sand are applied.
Total Expenditures:
Total Funding Sources:
Total Expenditures:
Forecasted Project Cost:
Total Funding Sources:
Progress Summary:
Future Impact on Operating Budget:
None
City of Auburn Parks, Recreation, Open Space & Trails Plan Update | Capital Improvement Program 102
MUNICIPAL PARKS CONSTRUCTION FUND (321)Capital Facilities Plan
Six Year Capital Facilities Plan, 2025-2030 Capital Projects Fund
Project Title: Forest Villa Park Improvements (previously Neighborhood Parks Improvement- ARPA)
Project No:cp2223 (previously gpbd31)
Project Type:Non-Capacity
Project Manager:Thaniel Gouk
Description:
Activity:
2025 Year End
Funding Sources:Prior to 2024 2024 Budget 2025 Budget 2026 Budget Project Total
Municipal Parks Construction Fund - - - - -
ARPA funding 28,626 121,374 - - 150,000
Bond Proceeds - - - - -
REET - - - -
Other - - - - -
28,626 121,374 - - 150,000
Capital Expenditures:
Design - - - - -
Right of Way - - - - -
Construction 28,626 121,374 - - 150,000
28,626 121,374 - - 150,000
Total
2027 2028 2029 2030 2025-2030
Funding Sources:
Municipal Parks Construction Fund - - - - -
ARPA funding - - - - -
Bond Proceeds - - - - -
REET - - - - -
Other - - - - -
- - - - -
Capital Expenditures:
Design - - - - -
Right of Way - - - - -
Construction - - - - -
- - - - -
Grants / Other Sources:
As part of the American Rescue Plan Act the Parks, Arts and Recreation Division will be able to make minor improvements in
qualifying neighborhood parks. Numerous parks in our low income census tracts are in need of modernization that will assist in
getting these community members outdoors and experiencing a better quality of life. These funds will assist in adding amenities
such as playgrounds, sport courts, gathering spaces to areas of need.
Progress Summary:
Future Impact on Operating Budget:
None
Total Expenditures:
Total Funding Sources:
Total Expenditures:
Forecasted Project Cost:
Total Funding Sources:
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Park Impact Fee
Analysis
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Park Impact Fees (PIFs) are charges imposed on new residential developments to fund the acquisition, improvement, and expansion of public parks and recreational facilities. These fees are collected by local governments from developers or property owners when they construct new homes or residential units. The primary purpose of PIFs is to ensure that as communities grow, there are sufficient parks and recreational spaces to meet the needs of the increasing population.
The calculation of PIFs typically involves various factors, including the size and type of the new residential development, the projected increase in population, and the costs associated with providing additional park services to the new residents. Local governments often use specific formulas or criteria to determine the fee amount. The revenue generated from PIFs is earmarked for specific purposes related to parks and recreation, such as purchasing land for new parks, developing new recreational facilities, upgrading existing parks, and maintaining natural areas.
Implemented through local ordinances, PIFs are part of broader parks, recreation, and open space plans that outline the level of service standards for parks and recreational facilities. These standards ensure that the funds are used effectively to meet community
needs. The underlying philosophy of PIFs is that growth should pay for growth, meaning that the financial burden of expanding public infrastructure to accommodate new residents should be borne by those who contribute to the growth, rather than existing residents. Overall, Park Impact Fees are a crucial tool for cities and municipalities to manage urban growth sustainably and ensure that all residents have access to quality parks and recreational facilities.
This document specifically addresses the impact fees related to parks and recreational facilities in Auburn. These fees are applied to all residential developments to ensure that the city’s parks and recreational infrastructure can support the demands of a growing population.
Regulatory Framework for
Impact Fees
Pursuant to state statute (RCW 82.02.050 - 82.02.100), Washington counties and cities, including Auburn, are authorized to collect impact fees to “ensure adequate facilities are available to serve new growth and development.” These fees are designed to fund public facilities that support new developments, ensuring that the infrastructure required by a growing population is
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adequately financed. Impact fees must be spent on projects related to the impacts of new development and cannot be used to correct pre-existing deficiencies or to pay for maintenance costs. They also cannot exceed a development’s proportionate share of the total cost for system improvements. The fees must be based on a formula or other method that calculates this fair share, ensuring equity and effectiveness in funding public infrastructure. Impact fees can be collected for four types of public facilities: public streets and roads, publicly owned parks, open spaces and recreational facilities, school facilities, and fire protection facilities (in areas not served by a fire district), as specified in RCW 82.02.050(2) and (4), and RCW 82.02.090(7). These fees must be used for “system improvements” that serve the broader community rather than “project improvements” specific to individual developments, as outlined in RCW 82.02.050(3)(a) and RCW 82.02.090(6) and (9). Local governments must establish reasonable service areas and develop impact fee rate categories for various land uses, as mandated by RCW 82.02.060(6). The improvements funded by these fees must benefit new development and be reasonably related to it, ensuring that the new infrastructure meets the needs generated by growth. In 2011, the Washington Legislature extended the period during which impact fees must be spent from six to ten years. According to RCW 82.02.070(3), if impact fees are not spent within ten years following their collection, they must be refunded. This extension provides local governments with more flexibility in planning and implementing necessary infrastructure projects to support new development. By incorporating these statutes, Auburn ensures that its impact fees are used effectively to fund essential public facilities, maintaining a high quality of life for its residents while accommodating growth.
Auburn Municipal Code:
Chapter 19.08 of the Auburn Municipal Code establishes the legal framework for assessing parks impact fees, as authorized by RCW 82.02. These fees are imposed on new residential developments to ensure that adequate parks and recreational facilities are available to support growth. The assessment of these fees is based on a specific schedule and is typically due at the time of building permit issuance. The funds collected must be used exclusively for improvements to parks and
recreational facilities that serve the new development, and cannot be used for maintenance or to address existing deficiencies. A dedicated account is established for managing these funds, with stringent reporting and management requirements to ensure transparency. The code also provides for refunds if the impact fees are not spent within ten years, as well as adjustments and credits under certain conditions, such as when developers provide on-site recreational facilities. Additionally, there are provisions for exemptions and an appeals process for disputing fee assessments.
Assessing the Need for
Impact Fees
To establish appropriate impact fee rates in Auburn, several critical factors must be considered. These include determining which public facilities the city is responsible for, identifying the demand for additional parks and recreational spaces, securing the necessary revenue to support these facilities, and understanding the benefits these amenities bring to new developments. The City of Auburn is responsible for its parks and recreational facilities, and impact fees can only be applied to public facilities, including those managed by other government entities, as outlined in RCW 82.02.090(7). Evaluating the need for new parks involves comparing current service levels with future demands based on population growth, identifying any gaps, and ensuring compliance with statutory requirements. Auburn’s approach includes analyzing per capita investment in existing facilities to determine the need for additional parks and recreational spaces. Revenue from impact fees is crucial for funding the development and maintenance of these facilities, ensuring that new developments contribute to the infrastructure they require. This process involves evaluating current funding levels and forecasting the additional revenue needed to support Auburn’s growth. New parks and recreational facilities not only enhance the attractiveness of new developments but also improve residents’ quality of life and provide significant economic and social benefits. Therefore, ensuring that new developments contribute to these amenities is essential for sustainable and balanced growth in the city.
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Evaluating the Benefit of Impact
Fees in Auburn
Impact fee laws in Auburn ensure that the fees imposed on new developments are justified and beneficial through several key principles and tests. These principles ensure that the fees are fair, equitable, and directly related to the needs generated by new development.
Rational Nexus Test
The rational nexus test requires a clear connection between the need for new public facilities and the development being charged the impact fees. In Auburn, this means that the fees must be used to fund improvements that directly address the impacts of new development. This test ensures that the impact fees are justified and applied appropriately.
Proportionality Test
The proportionality test ensures that the amount of the impact fee is proportional to the development’s impact on public facilities. This means that the fees collected in Auburn should not exceed the cost of the facilities needed to accommodate the new development. The fees must be fair and reflect the actual cost of providing the necessary public services and infrastructure.
Specific Benefit
Auburn’s impact fee laws require that the fees collected provide a specific benefit to the new development paying the fees. This ensures that the improvements funded by the impact fees directly enhance the facilities and services available to the new development, supporting growth in a way that benefits those contributing developments.
Compliance with Statutory
Requirements Impact fees in Auburn must comply with statutory requirements, which include detailed documentation and analysis to support the fees. This includes identifying existing deficiencies, reserve capacity, and new capacity needs. These statutory requirements ensure transparency and accountability in the use of impact fees. In summary, Auburn’s impact fee laws evaluate the benefit provided by these fees through the rational nexus and proportionality tests, ensuring that the fees are directly related to and proportional to the impact of new development. The laws also mandate that the fees provide a specific benefit to the development and
comply with statutory requirements to maintain fairness, transparency, and accountability.
Methodology and Relationship to
Capital Facilities Plan
In the City of Auburn, the calculation of impact fees for parks and recreational facilities is anchored in the per capita value of the city’s capital improvements for these amenities. The purpose is to ensure that new housing and other private and public developments contribute their fair share of the investment necessary to support, often needing to improve, the city’s level of service objectives for its parks and recreational facilities. This investment is typically supported by a combination of general revenue, capital improvement funds, grant funding, and impact fees. To determine the amount of the impact fee, Auburn multiplies the average number of residents per dwelling unit by the per capita investment needed for new development. This per capita investment reflects the cost of future parks projects identified in the City’s Capital Facilities Plan. By using this approach, Auburn ensures that the infrastructure required to support population growth is adequately financed and fairly shared. This method is consistent with Auburn’s municipal regulations and complies with RCW 82.02, which mandates that impact fees be equitable, proportional, and dedicated to system improvements that benefit new developments. This ensures transparency and fairness in funding the necessary expansions and enhancements to Auburn’s parks and recreational facilities.
Current Impact Fee Summary
The City of Auburn, WA, has implemented impact fees to finance necessary infrastructure improvements due to new developments, ensuring that the cost of growth is shared equitably among developers. These fees cover transportation, schools, and parks, with a special focus on park impact fees. Park impact fees are authorized by RCW 82.02.090 (7) and are designed to support the acquisition, expansion, and development of parks, open spaces, and recreational facilities. In Auburn, “parks” include both developed recreational facilities and open spaces preserved for their natural and ecological value. The impact fees are calculated based on the type and intensity of new development, ensuring a proportional
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distribution of costs. Different land uses, such as residential, commercial, and industrial developments, are assessed varying fees. Residential developments are categorized similarly to the transportation impact fee system for ease of understanding and administration. The City of Auburn ensures proper administration of these fees through regular updates, transparency, and accountability, with funds earmarked for specific park projects. The benefits of park impact fees include equitable cost distribution, enhanced quality of life, and sustainable growth.
Projected Growth and Density per
Dwelling Unit
Population Growth:
Between 2024 and 2044, Auburn, WA, is projected to experience significant population growth. The population is expected to increase from approximately 90,096 residents in 2024 to around 114,540 residents by 2044, representing an addition of approximately 24,444 residents over the 20-year period. This growth underscores ongoing urban development, rising housing demand, and Auburn’s attractiveness as a residential and economic hub in the region. To sustain the quality of life for both current and future residents, this projected growth necessitates careful planning and substantial investment in infrastructure, including parks and recreational facilities. The projected population growth rate for Auburn between 2024 and 2044 is approximately 27.13%.
Per Unit Occupancy:
The most recent estimates from the Washington State Office of Financial Management indicate the following average number of occupants per dwelling unit for Auburn: Single-Family Residential: 2.864 persons per unit Multi-Family Residential: 1.907 persons per unit Using these OFM estimates and the City’s existing inventory of single-family and multi-family residential units, we have calculated a weighted average occupancy of 2.559 persons per unit. This average is used for a uniform impact fee calculation, ensuring equitable distribution of costs associated with accommodating the city’s growth.
Using these estimates and the city’s current inventory of single-family and multi-family residential units, the weighted average number of persons per unit is calculated to be approximately 2.545 persons. This figure is instrumental in calculating uniform impact fees and supporting future planning needs as Auburn continues to grow.
Given the projected population growth, Auburn can expect an increase of 24,444 people between 2023 and 2044, which will significantly impact housing demand and density.
Level of Service Standards for Parks,
Recreation, and Open Space
Auburn’s previous Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Plan Update (2015) included a comprehensive demand and needs analysis including specific recreation facility types, that were used to develop proposed Level of Service (LOS) standards established within the same plan. After further review, and as detailed in this plan’s Demand & Needs, it was determined these standards are no longer aligned with Auburn’s current demographics, community needs, and future parks development plans. Consequently, this plan is adopting and revising the following recommended LOS standards:
Parks:
Neighborhood Parks: 1.25 acres per 1,000 population Community Parks: 5 acres per 1,000 population
Trails:
Multi-use Trails: 0.25 miles per 1,000 population
The following analysis includes an update to the parks impact fees based on the updated standards. Importantly, as outlined in the Capital Improvement Program section, the City of Auburn has identified the need to exclude football fields and indoor pool facilities from the impact fee cost basis, as there are no immediate plans to develop additional amenities of this type. City staff determined that excluding these facilities more accurately reflects the current and future recreational needs of Auburn’s residents, ensuring that the impact fees are aligned with planned improvements and community priorities.
Projected Costs for Parks and Facilities,
and Total Cost Basis for the Parks
Impact Fees
Based on this detailed analysis to update its parks impact fees, based on revised Level of Service (LOS) standards needed for this parks, recreation, and open space update, the 2002 standards were found to be outdated and not reflective of the city’s current demographics, needs, or future development plans. As a result, the City adopted new standards, including 1.25 acres of neighborhood park per 1,000 residents, 5 acres of community park per 1,000 residents, and 0.25 miles of multi-use trail per 1,000 residents.
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The total cost required to meet these standards through 2044, included developing 63.31 acres of neighborhood parks, 116 acres of community parks, and 6.68 miles of multi-use trails, had an estimated total cost of almost $56M.
After adjusting the total cost by accounting for external funding sources, including transfers from the General Fund and sales tax, as well as anticipated grant money. After these adjustments, the net cost basis for the parks impact fees was calculated to be approximately $6.134 million. This cost was then used to determine the per-household impact fee, ensuring that new developments contribute their fair share towards maintaining Auburn’s parks and recreational facilities at the revised LOS standards.
Using the number of parks facilities needed to meet the revised standards for growth over the next six years and the unit cost estimates, the total cost of the growth was calculated. Based on the information provided and the calculations we discussed earlier, the calculated impact fee per household is approximately $4,612. This fee was determined by dividing the net cost basis of $6.134 million (after accounting for grants and other funding sources) by the projected population growth, and then calculating the fee on a per-household basis using the average occupancy of 2.545 persons per household.
Comparison Analysis
With an updated park impact fee of $4,612 per household, Auburn is positioned competitively compared to similar-sized communities in the region. This fee closely aligns with those charged by cities like
Kent and Federal Way, reflecting a similar commitment to funding park infrastructure. Auburn’s fee is slightly higher than those in Renton, Puyallup, and Lakewood, indicating a modestly greater investment in parks to accommodate future growth. However, it remains significantly lower than the fees in areas like Redmond, where higher development costs drive more substantial impact fees. Overall, Auburn’s impact fee ensures a balanced approach to maintaining and enhancing park services while staying competitive within the region.
Table 6-: PIF Analysis
City
Current
Population
2024
Projected
Population
2044
%
Growth
Single-
family
fee
Multifamily
fee
Renton 108,555 140,000 28.97 $2,915 $1,978
Tukwila 21,798 30,000 37.63 $3,006 $2,618
Woodinville 14,330 20,000 39.57 $3,175 $3,175
Auburn 83,870 120,000 43.08 $3,500 $3,500
University Place 35,500 50,000 40.85 $3,644 $2,660
Puyallup 42,861 65,000 51.65 $3,675 $3,675
Shoreline 61,353 80,000 30.39 $4,692 $3,077
Redmond 80,280 110,000 37.02 $5,124 $3,557
Kirkland 91,194 120,000 31.59 $5,629 $4,278
Lynnwood 40,592 60,000 47.81 $5,899 $4,238
Sammamish 65,116 90,000 38.21 $6,739 $4,362
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Approvals
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Adoption Process
In order for this Plan to be formally adopted, the plan must be reviewed by several bodies, including the public, ultimately culminating with a resolution, ordinance, or other adoption instrument showing formal approval of the plan and planning process by the governing entity. Only after RCO approves the plan, may the organization may apply for grants for up to six calendar years from the date when the governing body adopted the plan.
With the depth of public and staff involvement made over the execution of this planning process, the following review and approvals have been included:
1. City Council Ordinance
2. RCO Self-Certification Checklist
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Council Resolution
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Planning Eligibility Self-Certification Form
Use this form to certify that the need for any grant projects have been developed through an appropriate planning process. Provide the completed form with the subject plans and adoption documentation to RCO via e-mail or other means of electronic access (i.e. Web link, Box.com, etc.).
Organization Name:
Contact Name:
Adoption Date of Submitted Documents:
Seeking Eligibility for: Recreation Grants Conservation Grants Both
Initial Each
to Certify
Completion Plan Element Certification
Document and
Page Number
Location of Information
1.Goals, objectives: The attached plan supports our project with
broad statements of intent (goals) and measures that describe
when these intents will be attained (objectives). Goals mayinclude a higher level of service.
2.Inventory: The plan includes a description of the service area’sfacilities, lands, programs, and their condition. (This may be done
in a quantitative format or in a qualitative/narrative format.)
3.Public involvement: The planning process gave the public
ample opportunity to be involved in plan development and
adoption.
4a. Demand and need analysis: In the plans:
•An analysis defines priorities, as appropriate, for acquisition,
development, preservation, enhancement, management, etc.,and explains why these actions are needed.
•The process used in developing the analysis assessed
community desires for parks, recreation, open space, and/or
habitat, as appropriate, in a manner appropriate for the service
area (personal observation, informal talks, formal survey(s),workshops, etc.).
4b. Level of Service assessment (optional): An assessment of the
criterion appropriate to your community. Possibly establish a
higher level of service as a plan goal (above).
5.Capital Improvement Program: The plan includes a capitalimprovement/facility program that lists land acquisition,
development, and renovation projects by year of anticipated
implementation; include funding source. The program includes
any capital project submitted to the Recreation and
Conservation Funding Board for funding.
6.Adoption: The plan and process has received formal governing
body approval (that is, city/county department head, district
ranger, regional manager/supervisor, etc., as appropriate). Attachsigned resolution, letter, or other adoption instrument.
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Certification Signature
I certify that this information is true and complete to the best of my knowledge.
Print/Type Name: ______________________________________________________________________________________
Signature (Hand Written or Digital): ___________________________________________________________________
Title: ____________________________________________________________________________________________________
Date: _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________
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City of Auburn Parks, Recreation, Open Space & Trails Plan Update | Appendix 119
Appendices/Attachments
[Title of Document/Report]
Subtitle | [Month, Day, 20XX]
| Appendix 119City of Auburn Parks, Recreation, Open Space, & Trails Plan
City of Auburn Parks, Recreation, Open Space & Trails Plan Update | Appendix 120
Washington State Recreation & Conservation Office (RCO) has found that many terms commonly used in recreation planning do not have consistent definitions from one plan to another. RCO suggests, but does not require, the following definitions compiled from various sources, including Washington Administrative Code, Department of Natural Resources, and Washington State Parks & Recreation Commission used in this master parks plan include:
A - Terms & Definitions
Table A1: Terms & Definitions
Term Definition#
Access The public’s ability to physically use land or water.
Active Recreation Predominately human muscle powered recreational activities.
Camping An overnight stay in a tent or other non-permanent structure.
Capital Improvement Program (CIP)A list or description of proposal capital projects.
Capital Project A project that results in redevelopment of an existing property, acquisition of new property, or a new built facility with a budget that excess $10,000.00
Consumptive Recreation that physically consumes resources; examples include berry picking, shellfish harvest, hunting, fishing.
Development A development project is construction or work resulting in new elements, including but not limited to structures, facilities, and/or materials to enhance outdoor recreation resources.
Dispersed Recreation that is scattered or spread across the landscape and not concentrated at a specific site. Examples include trail uses, camping, walking, cycling, and jogging.
Impact (Low, Medium, High)The effect that recreational uses have on resources including but not limited to soils, water, species, habitat, sites, and facilities.
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Table A1: Terms & Definitions
Term Definition#
Improve Expanding an existing site or facility to serve more uses or more types of use.
Level of Service Measure of the current status of a park and recreation system as a whole based on either quantitative or qualitative characteristics.
Maintain To maintain existing areas and facilities through repairs and upkeep for the benefit of outdoor recreationists.
Multiple-use Use by more than one type of recreation on the same facility.
Non-consumptive Resource recreation that depends on, but does not consume, resources; for example, photographing wildlife.
Park
Land or an area set aside for a special purpose, but particularly for leisure or recreation.
• Totlot/Mini-Park/Pocket Park – a small local park or civic space accessible to the general public without the capacity for large outdoor recreation activities like field sports and often associated with playground equipment for toddlers and young children.
• Neighborhood Park – a local-scale park with a service area of a reasonable walking distance, typically ½ mile, but up to 1 mile.
• Community Park – a community-scale park facility has a service area typically of 1-5 miles that includes the city limits of a town or city.
• Regional Park – a larger park facility intended to serve populations and uses from multiple jurisdictions.
• State Park – a park facility owned and managed by the State of Washington.
• Marine Park – a state or regional park facility intended to serve populations spanning multiple jurisdictions with primary access via watercraft .
• Day-use Park – any kind of park facility that does not allow overnight uses such as camping.
• Seasonal Parks – any kind of parks intended for use in specific seasons.
Passive Activities usually conducted in place and requiring minimal physical exertion such as picnicking, watching a sports event, sun bathing, or relaxing.
Qualitative An adjective relating to the quality of something interpreted by its intrinsic non-numerical characteristics other than some quantity or measured value.
Quantitative Relating to, measuring, or measured by the quantity of something obtained using a numerical measurement process.
Recreation Activities of a voluntary and leisure time Nature that aid in promoting entertainment, pleasure, play, relaxation, or instruction.
Renovate (Renovation)The activities intended to improve an existing site or structure in order to increase its useful service life beyond original expectations or functions. This does not include maintenance activities to maintain the facility for its originally expected useful life.
Restoration Bringing a site back to its historic function as part of a natural ecosystem or improving the ecological functionality of a site.
Shared Use Use by more than one type of recreation on the same facility.
Trail
According to the Washington State Trails Plan (RCO, 2013):
“…a path, route, way, right-of-way, or corridor posted, signed, or designated as open for travel or passage by the general public but not normally designated as open for the transportation of commercial goods or services by motorized vehicles.”
A trail is a recreational facility that also can serve as a non-motorized route for transportation.
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There are six basic park and greenspace facility types typically utilized by municipalities:
Pocket Parks / Mini-Parks / Tot Lots
Neighborhood Parks
Community Parks
Natural Areas & Greenspaces
Trails, Bikeways & Paths
Special Facilities
B - Standards & Guidelines
POCKET PARKS / MINI-PARKS /
TOT LOTS Generally, developed neighborhood parks typically include amenities such as pedestrian paths, picnic tables, benches, play equipment, a multi-use open field for youth soccer and baseball, sport courts or multi-purpose paved areas, landscaping and irrigation. Restrooms are not provided due to high construction and maintenance costs. Parking is also not usually provided; however, on-street, ADA accessible parking stall(s) may be included.
Neighborhood park development may proceed in phases.
Pocket parks are very small and serve a limited radius (up to ¼-mile) from the site; they provide passive and play-oriented recreational opportunities. Examples of pocket parks can include a tot lot with play equipment such as a climber, slide or swings; a viewpoint; or waterfront access areas such as at street ends.
A small urban plaza or civic recognition project may also be considered a pocket park. Parking is not often provided at pocket parks, although lighting may be used for security and safety.
LocLOCAL / NEIGHBORHOOD PARKS
Neighborhood parks are generally considered the basic unit of traditional park systems. They are small park areas designed for unstructured play and limited active and passive recreation. They are generally 3-5 acres in size, depending on a variety of factors including neighborhood need, physical location and opportunity, and should meet a minimum size of 2 acre in size when possible.
Neighborhood parks are intended to serve residential areas within short walking distance (up to ½-mile radius) of the park and should be geographically distributed throughout the community. Access is mostly pedestrian, and park sites should be located so that persons living within the service area will not have to cross a major arterial street or other significant natural or man-made barrier, such as ravines and railroad tracks, to get to the site.
Additionally, these parks should be located along road frontages to improve visual access and community awareness of the sites.
COMMUNITY PARKS
Community parks are larger sites developed for organized play, contain a wider array of facilities and, as a result, appeal to a more diverse group of users. Community parks are generally 20 to 50 acres in size, meet a minimum size of 20 acres when possible and serve residents within a 1-mile radius of the site.
In areas without neighborhood parks, community parks can also serve as local neighborhood parks. In general, community park facilities are designed for organized or intensive recreational activities and sports, although passive components such as pathways, picnic areas and natural areas are highly encouraged and complementary to active use facilities.
Since community parks serve a larger area and offer more facilities than neighborhood parks, parking and restroom facilities are provided. Community parks may also incorporate community facilities, such as community centers, senior centers or aquatic facilities.
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NATURAL AREAS & GREENSPACES
NATURAL AREAS
Natural areas are those which are preserved to maintain the natural character of the site and are managed to protect valuable ecological systems, such as riparian corridors and wetlands, and to preserve native habitat and biodiversity. In managing for their ecological value, these natural areas may contain a diversity of native vegetation that provides fish and wildlife habitat and embodies the beauty and character of the local landscape. Low-impact activities, such as walking, nature observation, and fishing are allowed, where appropriate, and horseback riding is also permitted on certain sites.
GREENSPACES
Greenspaces are passive-use open spaces and turf areas without developed amenities or structured functions.
TRAILS & BIKEWAYS
Trails are non-motorized transportation networks separated from roads. Trails can be developed to accommodate multiple uses or shared uses, such as pedestrians, in line skaters, bicyclists, and equestrians. Trail alignments aim to emphasize a strong relationship with the natural environment and may not provide the most direct route from a practical transportation viewpoint.
Bikeways are different than trails in that their principal focus is on safe and efficient non-motorized transportation. Bikeways serve distinctly different user groups than trail users. Typical bikeway user groups would include bicycle commuters, fitness enthusiasts and competitive athletes. Their emphasis is on speed, which can create conflicts with recreation-type trails and their respective user groups.
For shared-use trails, it is important that the alignment and cross sections be designed with flexibility to accommodate higher speeds, passing zones and greater widths. Surfaces will vary with intended use and environmental considerations. Additionally, parking, consistent signage (wayfinding, access, use hierarchy) and interpretive markers or panels should be provided as appropriate.
SPECIAL FACILITIES
Special facilities include single-purpose recreational areas such as skateparks and display gardens, along with community centers, aquatic centers and public plazas in or near the downtown core. Additionally, publicly-accessible sport fields and play areas of public schools are classified as special facilities; while they often serve as proxies to public parks, school sites have restricted daytime access and offer limited recreational use during non-school hours. No standards are proposed concerning special facilities, since facility size is a function of the specific use.
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C - Park Needs & Assessment Survey
Comments
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ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
resources, costs and good staff who maintain the massive areas. Thank you for planning to address continuing future needs.”
“Auburn has one of the best senior activity centers in King County. Keep up the good work.”
“Bring parks to the west hill!!!”
“Did you miss my request for a park on West Hill with a playground???? Please please please. I’ve been asking for 4 years. My kids will be out of the house by the time it happens. You’ve been goldilocksing a park up here since you acquired West Hill 14 years ago. The lake park isn’t for kids, theres no where for them to play. I know it’s expensive but it’s never going to be perfect or the right time, just get us a playground please!!!!!”
“Disability friendly off leash park with safe and secure parking area! Needs to be large enough to throw a ball, not a tiny fenced in area.”
“Do better to rid the drug activity, homelessness n make trails more wheelchair friendly “
“Do whatever needs to be done so people will feel safe spending time at the parks. I know young mothers who would never come without their husbands to certain parks. Also, prioritize the needs and desires of law abiding citizens over those of the homeless.”
“Doing a great job. Would like to see more open spaces. Thank you.“
“Emphasis on sports for elementary age kids. I called recently and was told basketball is not offered. “
“For an indigenous people to have an identity, we must have land on which we can reclaim our ancestral ways. Not “borrowed” day use land by portioned out indigenous owned and indigenous tended land. Auburn has PLENTY of open natural land that can be up for “reclaiming” by indigenous groups of people. Some king of process towards ownership. Open natural space for planting, harvesting, inipi temazcal (sweat ceremony) other relevant ceremonies around our calendar, outdoor kitchens ie stone, mud, brick, yurts, overnight amenities. A communal space for healing and reclaiming the ways of our ancestors.“
“I absolutely love the community center and the activities they provide”
“I am a 72 year old active person and I love to walk, bike and hike, go to the gym for exercise. So, don’t forget that older folks are sometimes a lot more active than younger folks. I have many neighbors that do not encourage their children to go or play outside. We need to get them out there. I think being inside all the time, and rushing from one activity to the next is causing societal stress. The out doors, green space, and activity is perfect for stress reduction and a healthy life.”
“I am happy with the park facilities but do not feel safe at most community areas anymore. I have been robbed, my car window broken out well playing at a park with my family and most recently
I appreciate all the community
events and the close,
friendly collaboration with the
Muckleshoot Tribe.
I absolutely love the community
center and the activities
they provide.
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ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
confronted by a homeless drug addicted man yelling at me to get him cigarettes. I no longer visit a majority of parks in the city as it’s just not safe. “
“I am in my second career as a high school teacher and coach. I became a high school teacher and coach because I saw the need. I care about kids in my community and I want to help them be as successful as possible. They are the literal future. As a teacher I’m able to see behind the scenes at what our most at risk kids need. Please steward our money wisely. I see a crisis on the horizon and right now there is something we can do about it. Thank you! “
“I appreciate all the community events and the close, friendly collaboration with the Muckleshoot Tribe.”
“I appreciate the recreational opportunities Auburn provides. One thing I don’t like is maintaining so much grass and would like to see more of that converted to planting beds. Reducing fertilizing and mowing would be good for our city.“
“I believe Auburn Parks to be the best part of Auburn. Thank you for all that you do.”
“I just wanted to share with you my appreciation for being asked for input on this. Having safe, welcoming spaces is a hallmark of a healthy community.”
“I live in West Hill Auburn, and I feel like we are almost a forgotten area. We are sometimes closer to Federal Way for things, but our address is Auburn, and our school district is Federal Way, so it makes being a part of a community difficult when we are sorta spread out.”
“I love all the free activities you have for children!”
“I love Auburn parks. Lets keep them safe and beautiful!”
“I love our parks and hope they are around for my grandkids to enjoy many years from now”
“I love the parks we have, but they are starting to feel unsafe and dirty. “
“I really appreciate that the parks department put a walkway in our neighborhood park. The park gets a lot more use since we don’t have to get shoes wet on the grassy. Also the increased foot traffic makes the park safer. It would be fantastic if the park department would bring summer programs for kids to our local park. Arts and crafts or a nature education would be fabulous for our neighborhood kids.”
“I really love Auburn and their Parks and Rec department, as a single mother on a tight budget it helps me out so much to have so many free and low-cost activities available for me and my 8 year old. Keep up the good work!”
“I think the biggest concern for all of Auburn residents is the safety issues because of the crime
I live in West Hill Auburn, and I
feel like we are almost a
forgotten area.
As a single mother on a tight
budget it helps me out so much
to have so many free and low-cost
activities available for me and my
8 year old.
City of Auburn Parks, Recreation, Open Space & Trails Plan Update | Appendix 127Additional Comments | 12Auburn PROS Plan Community Survey #1 – Results and Summary
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
rate associated with the homeless drug problem plaguing our once safe city.”
“I work in Auburn so I like to use your parks and facilities before and after work.”
“I would love more lighting on darker streets, especially this time of year when it’s dark and cold. We’ve lived here for 5 years after over 15 years in Seattle, I was surprised at the slow response to the traffic lights for pedestrians, especially on Auburn Way, I hit the button and wait FOREVER, and often no traffic or people driving like 50MPH because the lights aren’t requiring them to stop. I don’t feel safe standing on the corners with my toddlers/stroller etc. When it’s cold and rainy, the pedestrian WALK light response should be faster. Traffic should stop and pedestrians should be able to cross and not stand and wait. Your traffic control people should talk to the Seattle planners because they are so pedestrian focused. I think I would opt to walk more if it wasn’t clear the automobiles have priority.“
“I’d like to see a park in the downtown core, close to coffee shop. There was benches at train station but have been removed. No homeless but nobody else. I use to see lots of folks visiting.“
“In the last couple of years, there is a new trend to run motorized vehicles on our walking trails, mostly motorbikes. Either people don’t read or ignore the no motorized vehicle signs. Its multiple times a week I’m seeing this, i get the police is busy but its getting pretty bad”
“It would be nice if the City of Auburn worked with the YMCA to provide more services and facilities for senior citizens to keep physically active at a cost that is affordable. Thanks for listening.”
“I’ve lived here in Auburn all my life and have always enjoyed our beautiful parks. Thank you to the Auburn parks employees”
“Keep growing the parks and public spaces. We love the free summer events or low cost including music, movies, art.”
“Keep parks safer. Add better lighting. Deter homeless and drug users. Update equipment. Replace/repair missing/broken equipment. Les Gove was amazing when it opened- its horrible now.”
“Keep prioritizing the needs of the citizens. :) And thanks for asking.“
“Keep up the good work. Thanks for all you do.”
“Lea Hill seems to be the area most ignored. The high school is the only place with nice fields and they are constantly locked.“
“Les Gove and Game Farm get way too crowded during events and parking is impossible. Offering shuttles to events would be great.”
“Lights in a dog park!!”
“Loved your Farmer’s Market!”
“Make our parks safe again, please. We have some great recreation areas but they’re just not safe anymore.“
“Maybe a way to link the parks and such facilities to the walking trail along the rail road tracks/!!”
“More biking classes and ninja classes for kids would be so wonderful. It’s really needed. Look at marymor park in Redmond. They are a perfect
Keep parks safer. Add better
lighting. Deter homeless and drug
users. Update equipment. Replace/
repair missing/broken equipment.
City of Auburn Parks, Recreation, Open Space & Trails Plan Update | Appendix 128Additional Comments | 13Auburn PROS Plan Community Survey #1 – Results and Summary
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
example. A bike track for riders would be a full family and healthy sport. “
“More safety efforts, more community outreach, more public and community focused events“
“More support for agricultural businesses. More care needed for some of historic mature trees. Both trees and agriculture are part of the city’s culture, so the cultural staff need to be kept in the loop and have input on these issues.”
“My grandchildren and I love and appreciate the parks in Lakeland Hills! Thank you!”
“Our kids need more contact with mentors and good role models. The Scouts are having a hard time finding a permanent place to meet.”
“Overall, we have a great park system in Auburn. Keep up the good efforts to sustain and improve the wonderful parks we have.”
“perhaps list pickleball as an activity”
“Please build a playground a fulner asap”
“Please continue to work on the homeless problem. I know it is a very complex issue. I would like to see a more permanent solution. The camps have been cleared out by the Green River three times now. Within days they all move back. Stolen cars are routinely dumped and stripped there and the garbage just piles up again and again. I am also concerned about the river being polluted by all this as well as human waste. Shootings
are a regular occurrence. I have had to call 911 numerous times while golfing on our City Golf Course because of gun shots during my golf game. One person was shot and killed on the road there. This is just so unsafe!!!“
“Please work to build the park maintenance crew as they are very understaffed from what I have learned this year. Also, it’s VERY difficult for me to report concerns as I see them. I used to tell Mike Miller direct via text / cell but now I have no one to call and I have left numerous messages for the new head of maintenance and parks, with zero returned calls. I am disappointed.”
“Safety, graffiti, equipment repair needs to be done in a more expeditious fashion. Parks and rec and the city police and City Hall need to work more closely together to make our community safer and cleaner”
“Shout out for all the work Auburn already does to provide great parks and recreation. Thanks for making these spaces and activities available to all.”
“Thank you for asking for public opinion! I will feel safer using Auburn parks when the homeless/drug addict situation is under control.”
“Thank you for creating this survey. I think that the main question Auburn should be concerned with is whether we can handle all the incoming people successfully as a city. It seems that the homeless population is growing exponentially, as is the low income population. We need to make sure that there are adequate jobs and services available
Overall, we have a great park
system in Auburn. Keep up the
good efforts to sustain and improve
the wonderful parks we have.
Parks and rec and the city police
and City Hall need to work more
closely together to make our
community safer and cleaner.
City of Auburn Parks, Recreation, Open Space & Trails Plan Update | Appendix 129Additional Comments | 14Auburn PROS Plan Community Survey #1 – Results and Summary
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
before we add any more folks who need them, if we want to have a safe and successful city.”
“Thank you for having recreational facilities available as well as a way for the community to provide feedback.”
“Thank you for putting out this survey, please consider Lea Hill Area for development and please look at safety. Slow down the vehicles before there is a serious accident. Walking and biking options are not provided”
“The farmers market is the place I most enjoy. and I appreciate how it has grown. To that end I would like to see the market manager get some needed help.”
“The more Green Space available for people of any age, the more we can beautify our city!”
“The summer kids activities at the parks are great: disc golf, parkour, inflatable water slide.”
“The trail along the White river is nice but too flat. Need more trails with some variety.”
“The youth and adult tennis programs are very good. I appreciate the level of coaching.“
“This is a well-designed and thoughtful survey! Before I retired I developed surveys for state government and school districts, so I appreciate the care that went into this. I especially liked the use of the map to identify where in Auburn we live. Please have more opportunities for local artists. Right now, unless the Auburn Arts Commission already knows you, there is
slim chance of having your artwork posted or displayed. I know this is beyond the scope of this survey, but Renton and Burien, for example, are much friendlier to their community artists. Unfortunately, Auburn Arts Commission seems a bit clique-ish to me. There could be better use of the REC, for example, to display artwork. The Senior Center displays art but usually not from the people who take art classes there or have taken them there. Too much competition to get your artwork shown!!”
“We appreciate all of the programming and fun activities that you provide year round - thank you!”
“We appreciate seeing how Auburn takes care of itself and wants to be a place for community.”
“We love Auburn parks and nice maintenance all the time. Sometimes I see homeless people at parking lots or next to green river. We wish we could do something for them, we hope we can kind a share each other those parks or trails nicely.”
“We love Auburn. I love that there are a lot of community events and activities and the parks are great. Would love to see even more additions and/or improvements to make them even better!”
“We need to find ways to acknowledge and welcome the full diversity of our neighbors. The unsheltered neighbor is still my neighbor! As I would not seek to remove my trailer house living neighbor, nor apartment living, nor too fancy
The more green space available
for people of any age, the
more we can beautify our city!
I love that there are a lot of
community events and
the parks are great.
City of Auburn Parks, Recreation, Open Space & Trails Plan Update | Appendix 130Additional Comments | 15Auburn PROS Plan Community Survey #1 – Results and Summary
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
home for my taste neighbor – nor do I seek to remove these neighbors. How to help us be better neighbors to one another is a real question! What would help them to be better neighbors to me? Restrooms, showers, places to stay warm, cook food, share healthy interactions, places for dumping
garbage, transportation opportunities .... hmmmm... hope we are finding a way to positively seek all these neighbors input on these vital questions! Thank you”
“Working parents need options that are available during non work hours. And toddlers need places to play especially with the COVID baby boom”
“Would like to see the farmers market back on main street”
“Would like to use the parks/facilities again without fearing for my safety or theft.”
“Would love an indoor playground near the Lea Hill area”
Working parents need options
that are available during
non-work hours.
City of Auburn Parks, Recreation, Open Space & Trails Plan Update | Appendix 131Key Takeaways | 16Auburn PROS Plan Community Survey #1 – Results and Summary
KEY TAKEAWAYS
The project team will use the input collected through the community survey to inform and drive the PROS Plan update. Key takeaways from the survey data include:
Survey respondents’ most-used recreational facilities include paved walking/biking trails (used by 75% of respondents), large community parks (51%), small community parks (47%), small neighborhood parks (47%), natural areas/nature parks (45%), and playgrounds (42%).
Survey respondents’ least-used recreational facilities include skateboarding areas (used by 4% of respondents), outdoor fitness equipment (6%), football/lacrosse/hockey fields (7%), and youth softball fields (7%).
63% of survey participants indicated they travel outside of Auburn to access the recreational amenities/facilities they use most frequently. These facilities include other (nearby) city parks (29%), walking/hiking trails (17%), water access (8%), and indoor community centers (6%). These responses suggest there could be a need for more of these facility types in the City of Auburn, or a need to improve those that already exist within the city.
Barriers to use indicate existing issues that need to be addressed by the City in order to improve Auburn parks users’ experience. The largest barriers to use of the City’s available recreation facilities or programs, as reported by survey respondents, are security/safety concerns (57% of respondents), poor maintenance/cleanliness (31%), and overcrowded/booked facilities (20%).
According to survey respondents, the City of Auburn’s biggest parks and recreation needs include:
• More non-motorized urban trails/sidewalks (92.5% of respondents)
• Undeveloped natural areas/open space (86.4%)
• Community centers/indoor facilities (84.5%)
• Splash/spray parks (80.2%)
• More youth programs/camps (77.9%)
• Off-leash dog parks (69.9%)
City of Auburn Parks, Recreation, Open Space & Trails Plan Update | Appendix 142
Additional Comments
Additional Comments
At the end of the survey, participants were given the opportunity to share any additional ideas, information, or comments that may have been missed in earlier sections of the survey in an open-ended format. A snapshot of responses that represent the greater sentiment is captured in the word cloud below (with words scaled to correspond with the number of times they appeared in comments), followed by some representative quotations from the pool of responses that illustrate the range of sentiments expressed.
Representative Quotations
“Again, would love to see a Children’s Museum built in Auburn and more spaces for community activities.”
“Although I am NOT an Auburn resident, my husband works in Auburn and our eldest goes to school in Auburn. Our eldest also plays in Auburn Parks and Rec. We are in Auburn a lot and appreciate all the things you are doing!”
“An outdoor area with lighting would be very nice, since it’s dark at 4:40pm this time of year there aren’t many options for parents to bring their kids where they don’t have to spend money every time we go out. “
“Auburn has beautiful parks. And they are kept and maintained very well. The issue of homelessness has made it an unsafe area. I have seen people living in the parks. Sleeping on the park bench is outside the library. Sleeping inside the library. For a while I quit going to the Auburn library and went to the Federal Way library. I am now back at the Auburn library. Which I think is a very good Library. I don’t know the answer to howTo handle the homeless and crime in Auburn. But it certainly has affected where I shop. What parks I go to. And when I go. I have lived in Auburn since 1983. It needs to be cleaned up.”
“Auburn has great access to nature areas and parks. The city does a good job in putting needed
City of Auburn Parks, Recreation, Open Space & Trails Plan Update | Appendix 143
Additional Comments
resources, costs and good staff who maintain the massive areas. Thank you for planning to address continuing future needs.”
“Auburn has one of the best senior activity centers in King County. Keep up the good work.”
“Bring parks to the west hill!!!”
“Did you miss my request for a park on West Hill with a playground???? Please please please. I’ve been asking for 4 years. My kids will be out of the house by the time it happens. You’ve been goldilocksing a park up here since you acquired West Hill 14 years ago. The lake park isn’t for kids, theres no where for them to play. I know it’s expensive but it’s never going to be perfect or the right time, just get us a playground please!!!!!”
“Disability friendly off leash park with safe and secure parking area! Needs to be large enough to throw a ball, not a tiny fenced in area.”
“Do better to rid the drug activity, homelessness n make trails more wheelchair friendly “
“Do whatever needs to be done so people will feel safe spending time at the parks. I know young mothers who would never come without their husbands to certain parks. Also, prioritize the needs and desires of law abiding citizens over those of the homeless.”
“Doing a great job. Would like to see more open spaces. Thank you.“
“Emphasis on sports for elementary age kids. I called recently and was told basketball is not offered. “
“For an indigenous people to have an identity, we must have land on which we can reclaim our ancestral ways. Not “borrowed” day use land by portioned out indigenous owned and indigenous tended land. Auburn has PLENTY of open natural land that can be up for “reclaiming” by indigenous groups of people. Some king of process towards ownership. Open natural space for planting, harvesting, inipi temazcal (sweat ceremony) other relevant ceremonies around our calendar, outdoor kitchens ie stone, mud, brick, yurts, overnight amenities. A communal space for healing and reclaiming the ways of our ancestors.“
“I absolutely love the community center and the activities they provide”
“I am a 72 year old active person and I love to walk, bike and hike, go to the gym for exercise. So, don’t forget that older folks are sometimes a lot more active than younger folks. I have many neighbors that do not encourage their children to go or play outside. We need to get them out there. I think being inside all the time, and rushing from one activity to the next is causing societal stress. The out doors, green space, and activity is perfect for stress reduction and a healthy life.”
“I am happy with the park facilities but do not feel safe at most community areas anymore. I have been robbed, my car window broken out well playing at a park with my family and most recently
I appreciate all the community
events and the close,
friendly collaboration with the
Muckleshoot Tribe.
I absolutely love the community
center and the activities
they provide.
City of Auburn Parks, Recreation, Open Space & Trails Plan Update | Appendix 144
Additional Comments
confronted by a homeless drug addicted man yelling at me to get him cigarettes. I no longer visit a majority of parks in the city as it’s just not safe. “
“I am in my second career as a high school teacher and coach. I became a high school teacher and coach because I saw the need. I care about kids in my community and I want to help them be as successful as possible. They are the literal future. As a teacher I’m able to see behind the scenes at what our most at risk kids need. Please steward our money wisely. I see a crisis on the horizon and right now there is something we can do about it. Thank you! “
“I appreciate all the community events and the close, friendly collaboration with the Muckleshoot Tribe.”
“I appreciate the recreational opportunities Auburn provides. One thing I don’t like is maintaining so much grass and would like to see more of that converted to planting beds. Reducing fertilizing and mowing would be good for our city.“
“I believe Auburn Parks to be the best part of Auburn. Thank you for all that you do.”
“I just wanted to share with you my appreciation for being asked for input on this. Having safe, welcoming spaces is a hallmark of a healthy community.”
“I live in West Hill Auburn, and I feel like we are almost a forgotten area. We are sometimes closer to Federal Way for things, but our address is Auburn, and our school district is Federal Way, so it makes being a part of a community difficult when we are sorta spread out.”
“I love all the free activities you have for children!”
“I love Auburn parks. Lets keep them safe and beautiful!”
“I love our parks and hope they are around for my grandkids to enjoy many years from now”
“I love the parks we have, but they are starting to feel unsafe and dirty. “
“I really appreciate that the parks department put a walkway in our neighborhood park. The park gets a lot more use since we don’t have to get shoes wet on the grassy. Also the increased foot traffic makes the park safer. It would be fantastic if the park department would bring summer programs for kids to our local park. Arts and crafts or a nature education would be fabulous for our neighborhood kids.”
“I really love Auburn and their Parks and Rec department, as a single mother on a tight budget it helps me out so much to have so many free and low-cost activities available for me and my 8 year old. Keep up the good work!”
“I think the biggest concern for all of Auburn residents is the safety issues because of the crime
I live in West Hill Auburn, and I
feel like we are almost a
forgotten area.
As a single mother on a tight
budget it helps me out so much
to have so many free and low-cost
activities available for me and my
8 year old.
City of Auburn Parks, Recreation, Open Space & Trails Plan Update | Appendix 145
Additional Comments
rate associated with the homeless drug problem plaguing our once safe city.”
“I work in Auburn so I like to use your parks and facilities before and after work.”
“I would love more lighting on darker streets, especially this time of year when it’s dark and cold. We’ve lived here for 5 years after over 15 years in Seattle, I was surprised at the slow response to the traffic lights for pedestrians, especially on Auburn Way, I hit the button and wait FOREVER, and often no traffic or people driving like 50MPH because the lights aren’t requiring them to stop. I don’t feel safe standing on the corners with my toddlers/stroller etc. When it’s cold and rainy, the pedestrian WALK light response should be faster. Traffic should stop and pedestrians should be able to cross and not stand and wait. Your traffic control people should talk to the Seattle planners because they are so pedestrian focused. I think I would opt to walk more if it wasn’t clear the automobiles have priority.“
“I’d like to see a park in the downtown core, close to coffee shop. There was benches at train station but have been removed. No homeless but nobody else. I use to see lots of folks visiting.“
“In the last couple of years, there is a new trend to run motorized vehicles on our walking trails, mostly motorbikes. Either people don’t read or ignore the no motorized vehicle signs. Its multiple times a week I’m seeing this, i get the police is busy but its getting pretty bad”
“It would be nice if the City of Auburn worked with the YMCA to provide more services and facilities for senior citizens to keep physically active at a cost that is affordable. Thanks for listening.”
“I’ve lived here in Auburn all my life and have always enjoyed our beautiful parks. Thank you to the Auburn parks employees”
“Keep growing the parks and public spaces. We love the free summer events or low cost including music, movies, art.”
“Keep parks safer. Add better lighting. Deter homeless and drug users. Update equipment. Replace/repair missing/broken equipment. Les Gove was amazing when it opened- its horrible now.”
“Keep prioritizing the needs of the citizens. :) And thanks for asking.“
“Keep up the good work. Thanks for all you do.”
“Lea Hill seems to be the area most ignored. The high school is the only place with nice fields and they are constantly locked.“
“Les Gove and Game Farm get way too crowded during events and parking is impossible. Offering shuttles to events would be great.”
“Lights in a dog park!!”
“Loved your Farmer’s Market!”
“Make our parks safe again, please. We have some great recreation areas but they’re just not safe anymore.“
“Maybe a way to link the parks and such facilities to the walking trail along the rail road tracks/!!”
“More biking classes and ninja classes for kids would be so wonderful. It’s really needed. Look at marymor park in Redmond. They are a perfect
Keep parks safer. Add better
lighting. Deter homeless and drug
users. Update equipment. Replace/
repair missing/broken equipment.
City of Auburn Parks, Recreation, Open Space & Trails Plan Update | Appendix 146
Additional Comments
example. A bike track for riders would be a full family and healthy sport. “
“More safety efforts, more community outreach, more public and community focused events“
“More support for agricultural businesses. More care needed for some of historic mature trees. Both trees and agriculture are part of the city’s culture, so the cultural staff need to be kept in the loop and have input on these issues.”
“My grandchildren and I love and appreciate the parks in Lakeland Hills! Thank you!”
“Our kids need more contact with mentors and good role models. The Scouts are having a hard time finding a permanent place to meet.”
“Overall, we have a great park system in Auburn. Keep up the good efforts to sustain and improve the wonderful parks we have.”
“perhaps list pickleball as an activity”
“Please build a playground a fulner asap”
“Please continue to work on the homeless problem. I know it is a very complex issue. I would like to see a more permanent solution. The camps have been cleared out by the Green River three times now. Within days they all move back. Stolen cars are routinely dumped and stripped there and the garbage just piles up again and again. I am also concerned about the river being polluted by all this as well as human waste. Shootings
are a regular occurrence. I have had to call 911 numerous times while golfing on our City Golf Course because of gun shots during my golf game. One person was shot and killed on the road there. This is just so unsafe!!!“
“Please work to build the park maintenance crew as they are very understaffed from what I have learned this year. Also, it’s VERY difficult for me to report concerns as I see them. I used to tell Mike Miller direct via text / cell but now I have no one to call and I have left numerous messages for the new head of maintenance and parks, with zero returned calls. I am disappointed.”
“Safety, graffiti, equipment repair needs to be done in a more expeditious fashion. Parks and rec and the city police and City Hall need to work more closely together to make our community safer and cleaner”
“Shout out for all the work Auburn already does to provide great parks and recreation. Thanks for making these spaces and activities available to all.”
“Thank you for asking for public opinion! I will feel safer using Auburn parks when the homeless/drug addict situation is under control.”
“Thank you for creating this survey. I think that the main question Auburn should be concerned with is whether we can handle all the incoming people successfully as a city. It seems that the homeless population is growing exponentially, as is the low income population. We need to make sure that there are adequate jobs and services available
Overall, we have a great park
system in Auburn. Keep up the
good efforts to sustain and improve
the wonderful parks we have.
Parks and rec and the city police
and City Hall need to work more
closely together to make our
community safer and cleaner.
City of Auburn Parks, Recreation, Open Space & Trails Plan Update | Appendix 147
Additional Comments
before we add any more folks who need them, if we want to have a safe and successful city.”
“Thank you for having recreational facilities available as well as a way for the community to provide feedback.”
“Thank you for putting out this survey, please consider Lea Hill Area for development and please look at safety. Slow down the vehicles before there is a serious accident. Walking and biking options are not provided”
“The farmers market is the place I most enjoy. and I appreciate how it has grown. To that end I would like to see the market manager get some needed help.”
“The more Green Space available for people of any age, the more we can beautify our city!”
“The summer kids activities at the parks are great: disc golf, parkour, inflatable water slide.”
“The trail along the White river is nice but too flat. Need more trails with some variety.”
“The youth and adult tennis programs are very good. I appreciate the level of coaching.“
“This is a well-designed and thoughtful survey! Before I retired I developed surveys for state government and school districts, so I appreciate the care that went into this. I especially liked the use of the map to identify where in Auburn we live. Please have more opportunities for local artists. Right now, unless the Auburn Arts Commission already knows you, there is
slim chance of having your artwork posted or displayed. I know this is beyond the scope of this survey, but Renton and Burien, for example, are much friendlier to their community artists. Unfortunately, Auburn Arts Commission seems a bit clique-ish to me. There could be better use of the REC, for example, to display artwork. The Senior Center displays art but usually not from the people who take art classes there or have taken them there. Too much competition to get your artwork shown!!”
“We appreciate all of the programming and fun activities that you provide year round - thank you!”
“We appreciate seeing how Auburn takes care of itself and wants to be a place for community.”
“We love Auburn parks and nice maintenance all the time. Sometimes I see homeless people at parking lots or next to green river. We wish we could do something for them, we hope we can kind a share each other those parks or trails nicely.”
“We love Auburn. I love that there are a lot of community events and activities and the parks are great. Would love to see even more additions and/or improvements to make them even better!”
“We need to find ways to acknowledge and welcome the full diversity of our neighbors. The unsheltered neighbor is still my neighbor! As I would not seek to remove my trailer house living neighbor, nor apartment living, nor too fancy
The more green space available
for people of any age, the
more we can beautify our city!
I love that there are a lot of
community events and
the parks are great.
City of Auburn Parks, Recreation, Open Space & Trails Plan Update | Appendix 148
Additional Comments
home for my taste neighbor – nor do I seek to remove these neighbors. How to help us be better neighbors to one another is a real question! What would help them to be better neighbors to me? Restrooms, showers, places to stay warm, cook food, share healthy interactions, places for dumping
garbage, transportation opportunities .... hmmmm... hope we are finding a way to positively seek all these neighbors input on these vital questions! Thank you”
“Working parents need options that are available during non work hours. And toddlers need places to play especially with the COVID baby boom”
“Would like to see the farmers market back on main street”
“Would like to use the parks/facilities again without fearing for my safety or theft.”
“Would love an indoor playground near the Lea Hill area”
Working parents need options
that are available during
non-work hours.