A gathering of residents, state legislators, Covington city leaders and staff came together the morning of Aug. 18 to celebrate the progress of the community park.

The park is the first for Covington and the gathering showcased the work completed on the park in phase one and the planned projects for phase two.

Rep. Pat Sullivan, who represents the 47th District and was formerly a member of the Covington City Council, said when the property for the park was purchased in early 2000 there wasn’t the funds to build the infrastructure needed.

“Without the federal government, without the Green River Coalition, the Green River College, the WWRC (Washington Wildlife and Recreation Coalition) this wouldn’t be happening,” Sullivan said. “This is a great example of how government working together can put together a project for a community and for the families that live here and live actually outside of the city.”

Phase two projects for the park, with revenue from the Land and Water Conservation Fund, include a playground, picnic shelters, a completed trail system, tennis courts, outdoor exercise equipment and a covered stage and amphitheater.

Rep. Mark Hargrove said as someone who jogs in the area, “This park probably saves lives. It is an honor to be here with you, my neighbors and to participate in this.”

Councilwoman Margaret Harto said at the gathering, “We are creating a new legacy here for our children.”

Angie Feser, former planner for Covington Parks and Recreation, spoke at the ceremony and led a tour of the trails describing the trees, wildlife and future plans for the park and multipurpose sports fields.