Letter of Support and Skatepark Presentation UKC

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February 2!,2023 Senator Judy Warnick Representative Tom Dent Representative Alex Ybarra RE: Cle Elum Skatepark Project Letter of Support Dear Sen. Warnick, Rep. Dent, and Rep. Ybarra: The Kittitas County Board of Commissioners is proud to support the funding request for the Cle Elum Skatepark submitted by the Rotary Club of Upper Kittitas County. The existing park, originally built in the 1990s, is heavily used by youth and adults alike from across the Upper County and tourists visiting the area. Unfortunately, the structures are all above ground, made of metal and wood, and need replacement. Through the dedicated efforts of Rotary and the Cle Elum Skatepark Committee, $285,000 has already been raised through community fundraising over the past year - enough to fund phase L of the project. The funding from the capital budget will allow Phases 1 and 2 to be constructed simultaneously resulting in cost savings and this much needed recreation facility to open sooner. This project will provide regional benefit as it is the only skatepark between North Bend and Ellensburg. ln addition to skateboarding, the facility can be used for scooters, bikes, inline skates, and more, allowing it to be used by a wider range of ages and abilities. Upper Kittitas County is an underserved community with low-income families and few outdoor sports facilities. The proposed skatepark is directly connected via a paved shared use path to the local school district campus, serving the children of Cle Elum, Roslyn, South Cle Elum, Suncadia, Ronald, and other unincorporated areas. lt is accessible by ADA sidewalks, pathways, and by the Kittitas County Connector, the only local public transportation, a free service with a stop at the park. We encourage you to support this project with state funds and help provide our kids a safe and supportive place to recreate. Sincerely, Cory Wright Chairman Brett Wachsmith Vice Chair Laura Osiadacz Commissioner