Martin Luther King Jr. Park Community Pool

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

The project has been completed and the Aquatic Center at MLK Jr. Park is open to the public. The Ribbon Cutting Ceremony and Grand Opening was held on June 19, 2025. The overall project cost was $13 million. Funding came from many sources including Department of Commerce grants, RCO funds, Yakima County and City funds and over $3 million in donations. The facility includes water slides, lap lanes, zero depth entry, water play toys, climbing wall, basketball hoop and areas for water walking and swim lessons. Restrooms that serve the park were also included in the the project. The facility has ADA restroom for visitors. The aquatic facility is open during the summer months.

Quick Facts

WWRP Applicant: Yakima Parks & Recreation Category: Local Parks WWRP Grant: $500,000.00 Applicant Match: $7,500,000.00 Project Type: Development County: Yakima Legislative District: 14 Status: Active RCO Project # 22-1453

Location Details

From I - 82 use exit 34. Head west on Nob Hill Blvd. At Fair Avenue, turn right. Turn left on Race Street. The park is located at Race Street and S. 8th Street.

What is the WWRP

The Washington Wildlife and Recreation Program (WWRP) is a state grant program that creates and conserves local and state parks, wildlife habitat and working farms. The Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office administers WWRP grants, and the legislature funds the program.