Friday, October 2, 2026
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The Olympia City Council unanimously approved the Rebecca Howard Park development plan with the intent to move the project to the front of the city’s park construction queue, citing strong community momentum and its cultural significance.
Olympia Parks, Arts & Recreation Director Sylvana Niehuser recommended prioritizing Rebecca Howard Park ahead of other planned park projects that have not yet begun, including the Lily Road neighborhood park.
“Rebecca Howard Park has strong community momentum and a near-term partial funding opportunity. Re-sequencing these projects has not yet begun, allowing us to be more intentional about timing without disrupting projects that are already underway,” said Niehuser said at a city council meeting on Tuesday, March 24.
The proposal would delay construction of Lily Road park by several years, but keep it in the city’s long-term plans.
Olympia Associate Planner Sarah Giannobile presented the plan, the result of several years of community-driven work.
Originally acquired for economic development, the city reenvisioned the site in 2020 during the Black Lives Matter protests as a space for healing, reflection and community connection.
“The focus shifted from housing to healing as a need arose to provide a safe place for community members to find peace, connection and belonging,” Giannobile said.
A stakeholder group helped shape the park's vision. In 2021, the property was transferred to the parks department and named after Rebecca Howard, a Black businesswoman in Olympia in the late 1800s. Howard owned and operated a well-known hotel and restaurant, and is recognized as an important figure in the city’s early history.
The design emphasized flexibility and cultural storytelling, with the following features:
Circular design elements symbolize connections between past, present and future, while a “festival street” along 9th Avenue could be closed to thru traffic to accommodate events, food trucks and expanded public use.
Public art and storytelling are included in the concept, with plans for murals, sculptures, and interpretive elements highlighting the contributions of Olympia’s Black community, drawing on local historical research, including the work of historian Dr. Thelma Jackson.
The park is expected to be built in phases, with the total cost estimated between $5.5 million and $6.5 million, depending on the features included, such as solar installations and rainwater systems.
With the development plan now approved, city staff will begin pursuing grants, including a potential $500,000 state funding opportunity, while continuing to seek additional sources.
Mayor Dontae Payne thanked community members for their input that helped shape the project. He acknowledged that moving the park forward will be challenging.
“I want to be upfront that it is not going to happen overnight,” Payne said. “It will take a lot of work on the part of the city to apply (for) as many grants as possible to get the funding and to bring the project to fruition. Please know that we are fully committed to doing that.”
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JW
5.5--6.5 million. Currently the park is a source of neighborhood vagrancy. Any expectation that it will change after millions are poured in? It might be hard to have quiet reflection in the garden while some transients are OD'ing on the grass.
Wednesday, March 25 Report this
Chris_R
Here is some background information I found: The city paid $315k for this parcel in 2018, which is 0.34 acres, or 14,810 square feet (i.e. a double lot). Effectively, it is a pocket park across the street from the library. The mid-point build cost of $6 million equates to $405 per square foot. The ongoing annual maintenance cost after this planned development is around $100k. Given the projected costs are many multiples for a park development of this size, I imagine that it will be gold lined at a minimum.
Wednesday, March 25 Report this
cappers
Like JW said.
Wednesday, March 25 Report this
JnNwmn
Why did the focus "shift" from housing to healing. Was that presented to the city at large? In order to heal, you need a place to shower and wash your clothes. Many in the current library would appreciate this access. And we do not need to rebuild the street for any of these ideas.
Wednesday, March 25 Report this
Wesley
The editor couldn't even add the address of the parcel?
Wednesday, March 25 Report this
Olywelcomesall
Thank you City Council and staff for moving forward on completing the Rebecca Howard Park. I often stop by the park to relax and reflect. It’s great to have a space like this near the library and near four places of worship. I look forward to the proposed improvements. It will be a good place to learn and celebrate.
Wednesday, March 25 Report this
sunshine39
Lorilynn--Some street names and some numerals relating to the legend in the diagram would be really helpful. Or, at the least some compass points, e.g. something indicating North.
Thursday, March 26 Report this
Quadlok
Love that someone did the math and decided it meant the park was ruinously expensive rather than priced per square foot the same as any standalone Cafe. Additional cost for the outdoor part is easily explained by the fact public spaces tend to have better landscaping and art installations.
As for folks ODing, that's just the local flavor baby. I'm sure there were out of work longshoremen off their ass on opiates in Olympia before we were even a state.
Thursday, March 26 Report this
longtimeresident
I agree with JnMwmn. What universe do these planners live in.
I absolutely agree that Rebecca Howard should be recognized but let's take care of current problems first. Makes you wonder who is really in charge in the City of Olympia.
Thursday, March 26 Report this
Snevets
Thank you @Quadlok. I look forward to seeing this park move forward because it has been a long time coming for Ms. Howard and her early contributions to our city.
Thursday, March 26 Report this
olyhiker
Has the city found a pot of gold?
Thursday, March 26 Report this
JoanieNovember
I've always loved this lot. In the summer I'll walk by and have an apple, plum, or pear from one of the trees. I was thrilled when the city got it and named it for Rebecca Howard. The Juneteenth celebrations there every year are a beautiful thing. As for the future, this plan looks lovely and no doubt grants will be forthcoming.
Thursday, March 26 Report this
Porter
With that amount of money they should add six durable, prison grade, pay-for-use showers and a laundromat next to the cafe. Put in lots of seating that can be slept on and write a city code or whatever for three permanent employees to keep a watch. Maybe add a narcan vendomachine.
Thursday, March 26 Report this
Localhorizon
As Rebecca Howard Park is considered, i think it’s absolutely fair to ask whether the cost is justified. It is, because parks are not just amenities. They are long-term investments in a community’s health and stability.
Well-designed public spaces support local economies. A downtown park brings foot traffic, supports nearby businesses, and creates opportunities for events that generate activity and revenue. Over time, these benefits can outweigh the initial expense.
There are also less visible savings. Access to green space improves physical and mental health, reducing stress and social isolation. Those improvements can lower public costs tied to healthcare and social services.
This park also carries cultural value. By honoring Rebecca Howard’s legacy and emphasizing inclusion, it creates a space where more people feel welcome and connected. Stronger social ties lead to more resilient communities.
The plan to build in phases shows fiscal responsibility while allowing benefits to begin sooner.
The question is not whether Olympia can afford this park. It is whether it can afford to miss the long-term economic, social, and health benefits it will provide.
Sunday, March 29 Report this