Celebrating 100 years, preparing for a second century
In 2003, the Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission adopted Centennial 2013, a vision for the future of State Parks and a plan to carry it out.
Centennial 2013 Vision
"In 2013, Washington's state parks will be premier destinations of uncommon quality,
including state and regionally significant natural, cultural,
historical and recreational resources that are outstanding
for the experience, health, enjoyment and learning of all people."
The Centennial 2013 Plan focuses policy makers, public and Commission staff on common goals.
The plan has three priorities and a call to action for people to help with improvements:
Priority 1 – Fix what we have
With help from the governor and legislature, your State Parks Commission commits to caring
for and improving the high-quality state parks and recreation services you enjoy today, in
six core areas: stewardship; enjoyment, health and learning; public service, facilities;
partnerships and a financial strategy that leverages tax support with earned revenue and
donations for operations.
Priority 2 – Upgrade existing parks, trails and services
With a blend of public and private dollars, the Commission aims to build capacity and upgrade
existing parks, trails and services to meet increased demand in a fast-growing state.
Priority 3 – Add new trails and services and work toward opening new parks in the future
With a blend of public and private dollars, the Commission will work toward adding new trails
and opening new parks, to ensure a parks and recreation legacy for future generations.
100 Connections – A call to action
Park managers invite communities and organizations to donate time, labor and funds to help
complete 100 improvement projects in parks all over the state. 100 Connection project examples:
Playgrounds, kitchen shelters, interpretive features, trails and trailheads.
Support leads to progress
The Legislature, two governors and more than 2,500 organizations and individuals have endorsed
Centennial 2013. Capital and Operating budgets in 2005-07 and 2007-09 provided increased funds
to make significant progress on the plan. (See link to progress report to the left.) While budget
reductions in 2009-11 required adjustments to goals and timelines, the Commission remains committed
to Centennial 2013.
Endorsements of Centennial 2013 are welcome!
To add your name to the long list of supporters, complete an online endorsement
or send an e-mail
to the Commission, and be sure to tell us what about the parks and recreation resources that most
interest you. You will receive periodic news e-mails about your state parks.
You can also help by including your donation to State Parks when you renew your vehicle license tabs.
Donations made through this program now make up a significant portion of State Parks' basic funding.
Donations through the program go directly to State Parks to keep parks open and available. For more
information on the donation program, visit http://www.parks.wa.gov/donations/.
Thank you!
Downloadable documents
Following are documents related to the Centennial 2013 Plan.
What's New? Centennial Newsletters (PDF downloads)
