County Parks to Get Grants
Mason County Parks Department was recently awarded two Boating facilities grants and one grant from the Washington Wildlife and Recreation Program, Outdoor Recreation Account, Local parks Category. According to John Keates, Director of Park for the County, the grants were awarded by the Recreation and Conservation Funding Board with $275,500 going to renovate two infields at MCRA Park, $61,250 to design the renovations to the Union Boat Ramp, and $400,000 to expand parking at Latimers Landing.
MCRA Infield Project:
Mason County will use this grant to renovate two infields at MCRA Park near Shelton. The 30 acre sports park has seven baseball and softball fields and is used by multiple youth leagues, the Shelton School District, the City of Shelton in addition to multiple tournaments. The County will replace the dirt infields on fields #2 and #3 with synthetic turf and the outfields will remain grass. This project will improve field playability and reduce maintenance costs, rainouts, and the amount of water used at the park. The County will also make facilities accessible to people with disabilities by paving park pathways and access to bleachers and dugouts. The County will contribute $275,660 in cash, equipment, staff labor and donations of equipment and labor.
Union Boat Ramp Planning:
Mason County will use this grant to develop plans, specifications, and obtain permits to renovate the Union boat ramp on Hood Canal. Mason County developed the boat ramp in the 1970's and it has not had any improvements since. The County plans to renovate the launch, add a dock, and improve the parking area. The County will contribute $23,750. Grant is from the Boating Facilities Program.
Latimers Landing Parking Expansion:
Mason County will use this grant to develop 2.4 acres of parking for boats and trailers next to Latimers Landing County Park. The park has extremely limited parking now and the new project will add room for up to 30 vehicles and trailers. The County will also add new walkways that provide access to picnic and viewing areas overlooking Pickering Passage. Currently, vehicles and trailers line the narrow county road or park at an adjacent parking area causing visitors to have to walk long distances to park their vehicles. The County will contribute $140,900 in cash, labor, and donations of equipment and labor. This grant is also from the Boating Facilities Program.
