Help Advance Park Equity In Your Community
Seattle Parks and Recreation (SPR) is launching the Park CommUNITY Fund which advances park equity by working in partnership with frontline communities. This new funding source relies on public participation, and prioritizes frontline communities or communities (particularly those most affected by racism, oppression, and colonization) that experience high displacement risk, disproportionate exposure to environmental harms, a history of disinvestment, and a lack of green space access.
The 2024-2025 Cycle invests in small (Tier 1/ up to $150,000) and large (Tier II/ up to $1,500,000) capital projects on SPR property using participatory budgeting and equitable grant-making practices with the goal of delivering projects that expand inclusivity and close the gaps in access to quality parks and park facilities. Frontline communities will work alongside SPR staff through a Project Selection process, which includes three phases (Idea Collection, Project Development, and Final Selection). This process will run from March through October 2024.
“Utilizing funding allocated by the Seattle Park District, the Park CommUNITY Fund will allow us to deliver projects that create healthier communities and thriving environments for all,” said AP Diaz, SPR Superintendent. “I look forward to working with community and administrating this fund to support park improvements that demonstrate how Seattle’s diverse communities Shine.”
Idea Collection will last from March 18th through April 30th. Community members can submit project ideas online or in person at a SPR Community Center or pop-up event, with staff available for assistance. If your community group is interested in hosting an Idea Collection workshop or has an event you would like us to attend, please contact Shaquan Smith and Rachel Banner at ParkCommunityFund@seattle.gov. Staff will also host office hours on the following dates to provide information and answer questions:
Friday March 15th 12-1 p.m.
Monday, March 25th 9-10 a.m.
Wednesday, April 10th 12 – 1 p.m.
Thursday, April 25th 4-5 p.m.
Office hours and meeting details will be provided online. To stay updated on staff office hours, outreach events, Idea Collection launch, or other program information, please visit and subscribe to bit.ly/parkcommunityfund.
