Category Overview
Local Parks grants help protect these symbols of vibrant communities, providing places for families to gather and play and promoting a healthy and active lifestyle in an era when people spend increasing amounts of their time inside. The WWRP is the largest source of local parks funding in Washington, helping communities fund the acquisition, development, and renovation of vital recreation areas and green spaces.
Project Highlights
Manson Park & Recreation District will use this grant to help complete the acquisition of Leffler Field, a 4.97-acre parcel located in the town of Manson, in unincorporated Chelan County. This property served as a community space for over 20 years while being privately-owned. The purchase of this parcel preserves a beloved, much-used property, and ensures the expansion of public recreation in an underserved community. With the Manson area experiencing expansive commercial and residential growth, the District’s Comprehensive Plan identifies property acquisition as a top priority. Undeveloped property of this size, within walking distance of downtown Manson is scarce. Due to the resulting urgency, the purchase was completed under a Waiver of Retroactivity, with financial support from the Manson School District. By approving a $550,000 General Obligation Bond, the school district financially bridged the gap to help preserve this critical piece of land. The school and park districts share the same boundaries, and the school district is the only other primary agency for public services in the area. Manson’s Chamber of Commerce actively fundraised alongside community members to support the acquisition. If not for the swift action of the school district, this property would now house commercial buildings. Future improvements may include green space with a focus on passive recreation (parking, trail, benches, natural play), restroom, amphitheater, and infrastructure.