Wapato Park Shoreline Access

Category Overview

Washington is famous for its gorgeous and abundant waterways, from the Salish Sea to the Nisqually River, but many communities lack open public beaches and waterfronts where everyone can enjoy picnicking, swimming, paddling, boating, and angling. Water Access projects fund public shoreline access, boat launches, and fishing docks to create more opportunities for water recreation.

Project Highlights

The lakeside pathway was completed along the permiter of the Lake. Gravel pathways were extended in other areas of the Park. Locations along the shoreline were created to allow safe access to the water with stone edge. Two sloping beach areas were retained. In other areas, shoreline habitat planting was provided to protect the lake shore and help with water quality. Split rail wood fencing was installed to protect new shoreline planting areas. Other related park improvements include turf hydroseeding, expanded irrigation system and controls. Site furniture provided includes 23 benches, 16 picnic pads and tables, 16 litter receptacles, and two vehicle entry gates. Site signage includes two wayfinding directory signs, one kiosk for posting of public notices, standard park rules signs, and regulatory signs associated with the traffic, parking, and ADA access. New curbs and sidewalks were provided at the east entry drive connected to S. Sheridan Ave. Additional improvements to the public street intersection at S. 68th and Sheridan were also provided including sidewalks storm dranage, and ADA ramps. The drive connecting the central and south parking lots was widened to accommodate two-way traffic. The south park restroom was remodeled with new roof, doors, fixtures, electrical and mechanical systems.

Quick Facts

WWRP Applicant: Tacoma MPD Category: Water Access WWRP Grant: $500,000.00 Applicant Match: $500,000.00 Project Type: Development County: Pierce Legislative District: 29 Status: Closed Completed RCO Project # 08-1084

Location Details

The site is located just east of I-5 and north of South 72nd Avenue in Tacoma. It can be reached by exiting I-5 to the east on South 72nd.

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.