To accomplish great things, we must not only act but also dream; not only plan, but also believe.
Anatole France
French poet, journalist, and novelist
It has been another great, crazy and busy summer. I hope everyone was able to visit the new Aquatic Center at MLK Jr. Park this summer. This aquatic center started as a dream and because so many people believed in the project it became a reality. A plan was created, and with the help of so many partners and contributors, it has been accomplished. We opened the facility on June 19th with a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony and since then it has been a very busy place. There are so many different fun things for everyone to enjoy. I am so grateful to Jason Zeller, Recreation Program Supervisor – Aquatics and Louie Healy, Aquatic Specialist and all the lifeguards and cashiers that worked at the aquatic center all summer. They all did an amazing job figuring out how to operate this new recreation opportunity. Opening a new recreation facility always takes some effort, especially if it is a swimming facility.
As many of you know, the City has been faced with financial issues. We will be working hard to find ways to continue to bring you all of the great programs and events that we have in the past. We will be reaching out to the community to sponsor programs and events.
During the fall, we will be finishing up the plans and permitting for the West Valley Community Park pedestrian bridge project. The bridge will connect the park to the neighborhoods to the north. Our hope is to have the project completed in the spring or early summer of 2026. This project is made possible through a Washington Department of Transportation grant.
I hope that all of you will continue to dream about what we can accomplish together. It has always been amazing to me what can be done with a dream and people who believe. Thanks again to everyone that has partnered with us to create great recreation opportunities that add to our quality of life here in the Yakima area.
Ken Wilkinson
Yakima Parks & Recreation Manager