Public Comment Period Open Through December 5
Pierce County Parks is asking for your input on the future
of our local parks, trails, and open spaces, and this is a crucial opportunity
for cyclists throughout our region to make our voices heard.
What's Happening?
Pierce County is updating its Parks, Recreation and Open
Space (PROS) Plan—a comprehensive 15 to 20-year roadmap that will guide park
development and investment across the county. This strategic plan will
determine which projects get prioritized, where new trails are built, and how
our park system evolves to meet the needs of our growing community.
The draft plan is now available for public review, and the
county is actively seeking feedback through an online open house and survey. The
deadline to participate is December 5, 2025.
Why Cyclists Should Care
As members of the cycling community, we have a unique
perspective on what makes our region's trail system work—and where it falls
short. The PROS Plan will shape decisions about:
- New
trail connections that could link existing routes and create safer
cycling corridors
- Trail
maintenance and improvements to existing paths and greenways
- Multi-use
trail design that accommodates cyclists, pedestrians, and other users
- Access
to parks and open spaces via bike-friendly routes
- Future
trail extensions that could expand our recreational and commuting
options
The current plan was developed based on a 2024 community
survey, demographic analysis, revenue projections, and adopted county policy.
Now it's time for the public to review and refine these priorities.
What Pierce County Manages
Pierce County Parks manages over 30 parks, 50 miles of trails, and 5,500 acres of open space. The system includes everything from recreation centers to regional trails that many of us use regularly for both recreation and transportation.
With Pierce County's population continuing to grow, it's essential that our parks and trail systems evolve and expand to accommodate more users while preserving the natural areas we all value.
How to Make Your Voice Heard
Participating is easy and can make a real difference in the
final plan:
- Visit
the online open house at PierceCountyWA.gov/PROS
- Review
the draft plan and the list of proposed park and trail projects for
the next 20 years
- Complete
the public survey to share your priorities and feedback
- Submit comments that will be considered by the Pierce County Parks Citizens Advisory Board and Planning Commission
What to Emphasize in Your Feedback
As cyclists, consider highlighting:
- The
importance of connected trail networks that allow for longer rides
and safer commuting routes
- The
need for trail maintenance and improvements to existing
infrastructure
- Safe
crossings at roads and intersections along multi-use trails
- Parking
and amenities at trailheads (bike racks, repair stations, etc.)
- The
value of separated or wider trails that can safely accommodate
different user speeds
- Opportunities
to connect neighborhoods to trails through bike-friendly routes
- The role of trails in promoting active transportation and reducing car dependence
The Bigger Picture
The PROS Plan isn't just about recreation—it's about
creating a park system that serves everyone in Pierce County. The plan must be
updated every six years to maintain eligibility for grants from the Washington
State Recreation and Conservation Office, a major source of funding for trail
and park projects.
Your input will directly influence which projects move forward, how resources are allocated, and ultimately what our trail system looks like for the next 15 to 20 years.
Don't Miss This Opportunity
The public comment period closes December 5, 2025.
Whether you're an avid trail user or an occasional weekend rider, your
perspective matters. Take a few minutes to visit the website, review the draft
plan, and share your feedback.
Together, we can help shape a more connected, accessible,
and bike-friendly Pierce County.
For more information:
- Visit:
PierceCountyWA.gov/PROS
- Email:
Contact Tiffany Odell, Planning Supervisor at (253) 798-4254
Let's make sure the cycling community's voice is heard in
this important planning process!