“Individual commitment to a group effort—that is what makes a team work, a company work, a society work, a civilization work.”
Vince Lombardi
Wow — it’s already the middle of summer, and our Yakima Parks & Recreation team has been incredibly busy. One of our major accomplishments was getting Franklin Pool up and running. We set a target opening date of June 15, and thanks to the hard work of our contractors, Poppoff Inc. and Cascade Plumbing, we were able to welcome the public on June 19. Our Engineering Division, Streets Division, and Park Maintenance staff also played key roles. As Vince Lombardi said, individual commitment makes the team effort possible, and that was certainly true in getting Franklin Pool open for 2026.
A huge thanks goes to Jason Zeller, Recreation Program Supervisor – Aquatic. Jason organized multiple lifeguard certification classes in a very short time, ensuring we had enough trained staff for the Aquatic Center at MLK Jr. Park, Franklin Pool, and Lions Pool. Seeing kids swimming at Franklin Pool on opening day was a wonderful parks and recreation moment.
Work is also beginning soon on the new Outdoor Exercise Gym at Chesterley Park. We received a generous donation from Forbes Mercy to purchase and install new fitness equipment that the community can use free of charge. Forbes also donated funds for a four‑week kids sports camp at MLK Jr. Park. Thank you, Forbes, for your continued support.
We’re grateful as well for donations supporting our concerts and movies this summer. Due to budget cuts, we needed alternative funding to keep these long-standing free community events going. Thanks to Colonial Lawn and Garden, Yakima Neighborhood Health, and an anonymous donor, families will continue to enjoy these traditions throughout the summer.
Additionally, the bid has been awarded for the West Valley Community Park pedestrian bridge project. Construction should begin in late summer or early fall. This project is funded through a grant from the Washington State Department of Transportation, and we appreciate Sen. Curtis King for his support.
I am so grateful for the “Team” I get to work with in our community. Together, we’ve continued to provide recreation facilities and opportunities that help families make great memories. Thank you, everyone, for your commitment and teamwork.
Ken Wilkinson
Yakima Parks & Recreation Manager