2026 Comprehensive Plan update
Help Guide the Way Forward!
The Bainbridge Island Metro Park & Recreation District takes long-range direction from its community-based Comprehensive Plan. Also known as the Bainbridge Island Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Plan, the plan is updated every six years to reflect community interests. A critical part of the Comprehensive Plan is to assess the public service levels of the island-wide park, recreation, and open space systems. It also looks to the future with decision-making measures and Park District actions that will advance the updated community goals and objectives.
Please see the Executive Summary for more information and ways you can help the plan come alive.
Current Status:
The Park District Comprehensive Plan is updated!
The plan was adopted by the Park Board of Commissioners at their February 19, 2026 public meeting. It serves as the long-range plan for the Park District with a focus on the years 2026-2032.
It is the result of a community-based planning process that began at the Earth Expo on April 25, 2025, as documented in the Community Survey (Appendix B) and the Public Input Log (Appendix C).
Also known as the Bainbridge Island Parks, Recreation and Open Space Plan, the plan engages everyone, including community organizations and partners who also work to address the plan’s goals and objectives. For example, this plan will also update the City of Bainbridge Island Comprehensive Plan and work to align public investments.
How we got there:
Education Stage (March - November 2025)
Goal: Build a shared understanding of the Park District today.
We begin by listening and learning together. This stage will focus on gathering information, understanding current needs, and engaging the community in meaningful conversations.
Community Engagement Timeline
Earth Day Expo
Saturday, April 26 | 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Battle Point Park
Launch of ongoing engagement and information-sharing activities.
Community Stakeholder Meetings
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Tuesday, May 13 | 11:30a – 1:30p
Bainbridge Island Aquatic Center -
Thursday, May 22 | 6:00 – 7:30p
Bainbridge Island Aquatic Center
Open House
Saturday, June 21 | 10:00a – 12:00p
Presentation materials available:
View Presentation Boards
Ongoing Community Engagement
Presentations to Community Groups
Interactive Information Boards
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In Person: Bainbridge Island Library
Workshops & Tabling Events
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Thursday, July 4 | Good Old-Fashioned 4th of July Celebration – Informational Table
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Tuesday, July 30 | 5:00p | Terry’s Sounds of Summer at Battle Point Park
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Wednesday, August 13 | 5:00p | Terry’s Sounds of Summer at Battle Point Park
Visioning Stage (May - August 2025)
Goal: Shape the long-term vision for parks and recreation on Bainbridge Island.
Community Surveys –We’ll conduct a scientific survey and an open public survey.
Workshops & Interactive Mapping – Hands-on activities for mapping future parks and funding strategies.
Community Gatherings – Events like the Fourth of July and the summer concert series.
Community-Wide Open House – Midway review of findings and direction.
Review Stage (September - November 2025)
Goal: Refine and finalize the updated Comprehensive Plan.
Draft Plan Release – Public feedback opportunity.
Board Meetings
Online Public Review – Interactive platform for feedback.
Final Open House – Last chance to weigh in before adoption.
Here is the Background:
How does a dollar get spent?
What's a Metropolitan Park District?
Bainbridge Island Meropolitan Park & Recreation District is an independent agency that is NOT part of city government.
What do we do?
- Design, develop, and maintain PARKS AND GREEN SPACES.
- Operate RECREATIONAL FACILITIES: a recreation center, aquatic center, sports fields, and community halls.
- Create and maintain TRAILS AND OUTDOOR ACCESS.
- Provide PROGRAMS, ACTIVITIES, AND EVENTS for all ages.
- Champion CONSERVATION AND STEWARDSHIP for island ecosystems and resources.
- ENSURE EQUITABLE ACCESS to engage in healthy active lifestyles.
Who decides what we do?
Ultimately, you do.
In addition to a dedicated and professional staff, we are governed by a board of elected commissioners whose job it is to listen to you!
Where do we get our money?
- Property taxes
- Rental and activity fees
- Grants
We also receive designated support from the Parks & Trails Foundation and other community organizations.
What are our budget challenges?
- Limited financial resources
- Increasing demands for services and facilities
- Maintenance costs
What’s a Comprehensive Plan?
A guiding document updated every six years that assesses the data about what we have, what we need, and where we’d like to go.
How can you help?
- Attend a community event
- Answer our surveys
- Share your experience
- Your feedback helps us make informed decisions
Stay Connected!
Contact Matthew Keough at mattk@biparks.org.