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Lynnwood · LYN-CP-2025 · Pages 222-243

Parks, Recreation & Open Space Element

The Parks, Recreation & Open Space Element inventories Lynnwood's 420+ acres of parks, trails, and open spaces and establishes policies to equitably expand and maintain the system as the city grows toward its 2044 population target. It sets a level of service standard of 3.5 acres per 1,000 residents and directs park investments using the ParksLove equity evaluation tool to prioritize underserved areas. The element addresses programming, cultural heritage preservation, trail connectivity, sustainability in maintenance, and intergovernmental coordination for regional trail and open space networks.

Parks & Recreation Social Environment Governance Economy
Key Commitments
Parkland service standard of 3.5 acres per 1,000 persons; Park amenity distribution within 1/2-mile of every household; 420+ acres of existing parks, trails, and open space; Proposed recreational trail network totaling nearly 22 miles if fully developed
Goals (4 total)
  • PR Goal 1: Provide safe, accessible, and diverse gathering and recreation places, spaces and programs
  • PR Goal 2: Reduce park system access gaps through strategic and equitable acquisition and development
  • PR Goal 3: Provide programming and opportunities that enhance quality of life
  • PR Goal 4: Maintain, renovate, and continually ensure park, trail and recreation facility assets are managed for safety, longevity, and sustainable use
Stronger Policy Language (10 policies)
  • PR Policy 2.1: Provide parkland to a service standard of 3.5 acres per 1,000 persons.
  • PR Policy 2.2: Provide equitable park and amenity distribution within a 1/2-mile (approximately 10 to 15-minute walk) of every household utilizing the ParksLove project evaluation tool...
  • PR Policy 2.8: Design new parks and trails and provide improvements to existing parks that promote public safety and security and provide accessibility to all in accordance with ADA standards.
  • PR Policy 4.3: Actively manage Lynnwood's parks and recreation assets through a regular schedule of maintenance and capital renewal efforts...
  • PR Policy 4.5: Use traditional and new funding sources to adequately and cost-effectively maintain and enhance the quality of Lynnwood's parks and recreation system.
Aspirational / Monitoring Language (16 policies)
  • PR Policy 1.5: Pursue and maintain effective partnerships with governmental, private, and non-profit organizations to plan and provide recreation activities and facilities...
  • PR Policy 2.4: Explore developer incentives to incorporate public open space, pedestrian connections, and recreation facilities in future development projects...
  • PR Policy 3.9: Encourage and support organized public events like farmers markets, fairs, concerts, or other seasonal outdoor performances.
  • PR Policy 3.10: Support green neighborhood initiatives and education, such as tree plantings, street cleanup days, community gardens...
  • PR Policy 4.4: Encourage and promote volunteer park improvements and maintenance projects from a variety of individuals, service clubs, churches, and businesses.

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