2026 Comprehensive Plan update
Help Guide the Way Forward!
Bainbridge Island Metro Park & Recreation District belongs to the community. It is the result of our shared thoughtful stewardship today and careful direction-setting for the future. The Park District Comprehensive Plan update is an opportunity for residents to help guide decisions about parks, trails, recreation programs, and facilities.
We are committed to an open and inclusive planning process that allows everyone to learn, engage, and contribute ideas. Over the next year, we’ll work together to set long-term priorities and ensure that the Park District continues to meet the needs of a growing community.
How to Participate
Take our Survey
The results of this survey will provide insight on how to grow responsibly into the future, including specific recommendations for physical improvements to parks and recreational opportunities over the next six years.
The survey is open through July 31. Hard copies are available upon request and can be dropped off at the Lande Administrative Office at 7686 NE High School Road.
Afterwards, a report will summarize the results, which will include statistically valid findings from a third-party expert who contacted 5,000 randomly selected households on the island.
Review & Interact With Our Information Boards
Online: Visit our Interactive Information Board.
In Person: Information boards presented at the Open House on June 21st are available in person at the Bainbridge Island library.
Join the conversation! Tell us:
- What should the Park District prioritize in the next 20 years, and why?
- What new parks, trails, facilities or programs would best serve your community?
Send a Comment
Comments become an integral part of the public record. Verbal comments at board meetings, emails, inquiries, and input over our interactive activities are logged and reviewed by our board members ahead of decision points.
View Recorded Presentations
Listen to recorded presentations, or request project presentations to your group.
Map Your Experience
Why Does This Matter?
The updated Comprehensive Plan will:
- Ensure community voices are reflected in future decisions.
- Determine the needs of the Park District and its patrons.
- Guide investments in new and existing parks and programs.
- Set priorities for parks, trails, recreation programs, and facilities.
- Set performance measures for ongoing evaluation of service levels.
- Strengthen programs with local organizations and stakeholders.
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
Our Approach: A Three-Stage Engagement Process
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 Events – Stop by our booths at local events to learn more and participate in activities. Events include Earth Expo, Farmers’ Market outreach days, and pop-up events at parks.
Stakeholder Meetings – Small group discussions with community organizations and interest groups.
Online Resources – Park District history, public input summaries, and interactive tools.
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.
Stay Connected!
Contact Matthew Keough at mattk@biparks.org to schedule a stakeholder discussion or request a presentation for your group.