The Arboretum Foundation is thrilled to share that the State has granted us Local and Community Projects (LCP) funding through the Department of Commerce! Thanks to the sponsorship and advocacy of Senator Jamie Pederson and Representative Joe Fitzgibbon, the Washington State Legislature has appropriated $900,000 in its 2025–27 capital budget to support two priority projects in the Arboretum: a new ADA-accessible trail and more directional and educational signage.
Each year, Washington State Representatives have the opportunity to sponsor funding requests for local community projects that exist outside of the state’s existing grant and loan programs. In support of our work to ensure that the Washington Park Arboretum remains accessible, educational, and welcoming to all, we submitted an LCP request to build the Pacific Pathway, an ADA-compliant trail connecting Azalea Way to the Pacific Connections Garden, two signature exhibits. A second project will add directional and educational signage at Arboretum entrances. These improvements will create a more welcoming experience for all visitors, especially those with limited mobility.
As a public park and cherished urban green space in our district, the Arboretum serves as a vital recreational and educational hub for our community and the larger Puget Sound region. We look forward to bringing these projects to life. We will provide updates as each project develops in the coming months.
We are incredibly grateful to Senator Pederson and Representative Fitzgibbon for their leadership in championing investments that will enhance accessibility, safety, and the visitor experience at the Arboretum.
