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Bowen Field Expansion

WWRP Applicant: City of Sumas
RCO Project Number: 04-1393
County: Whatcom 
Legislative District: 42nd 
WWRP Category: Local Parks
WWRP Grant: $499,855
Applicant Match: $809,646
Recipient Match: $1,050,306
Project Type: Combined
Date Funded: 2005

Description:

This project involves expansion of an existing 10 acre park through acquisition and development of an adjacent 30 acres. Our existing park contains a rodeo ground and two softball fields. Access to and parking for the park are threatened by the imminent construction of a new state highway segment. This project will provide new access and parking for the combined expanded park. It will also provide two new softball fields, a soccer field, a restroom/official's building, a footbridge linking the new parcel to the old, trails, stormwater ponds, and riparian enhancement. Eventual build-out of the site will include picnic facilities, more trails, a playground, a "commons," and two more ball fields. The acquisition site is ideal and unique. A stream winds through the site, allowing for riparian enhancement of what is now an agriculturally-impacted resource. Diamonds can be laid out to incorporate an existing stand of mature trees, giving the new park instant beauty. Topography and soils are good. Trails planned by both the city and the county will access the site. Finally, the site is central to Sumas's UGA, facilitating pedestrian access for both existing and future residents. The expanded park will offer both active and passive recreation, will host regional events (the Sumas Rodeo), will serve as a local park, and will promote economic development. The project is strongly supported by residents and businesses and has attracted large private donations.

Red Marker Bowen Field Expansion

This project involves expansion of an existing 10 acre park through acquisition and development of an adjacent 30 acres. Our existing park contains a rodeo ground and two softball fields. Access to and parking for the park are threatened by the imminent construction of a new state highway segment. This project will provide new access and parking for the combined expanded park. It will also provide two new softball fields, a soccer field, a restroom/official's building, a footbridge linking the new parcel to the old, trails, stormwater ponds, and riparian enhancement. Eventual build-out of the site will include picnic facilities, more trails, a playground, a "commons," and two more ball fields. The acquisition site is ideal and unique. A stream winds through the site, allowing for riparian enhancement of what is now an agriculturally-impacted resource. Diamonds can be laid out to incorporate an existing stand of mature trees, giving the new park instant beauty. Topography and soils are good. Trails planned by both the city and the county will access the site. Finally, the site is central to Sumas's UGA, facilitating pedestrian access for both existing and future residents. The expanded park will offer both active and passive recreation, will host regional events (the Sumas Rodeo), will serve as a local park, and will promote economic development. The project is strongly supported by residents and businesses and has attracted large private donations.

48.99 -122.26
Location:
North on I5 to exit 256, east on SR 542 (Mt. Baker Highway) for 10 mi., north on SR 9, follow posted signs to Sumas (approx. 14 mi.), after passing city limit sign and crossing two railroad tracks, turn right on Cherry Street, continue 200 yards to Bowen Field, on left.

WHAT IS THE WWRP?

The Washington Wildlife and Recreation Program (WWRP) is a state grant program that creates and conserves local and state parks, wildlife habitat and working farms. The Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office administers WWRP grants, and the legislature funds the program.
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