Ridgefield Waterfront Park Closer to Reality with State Funding

The Washington Legislature approved $100,000 for the 9-acre park project along Lake River.

Apr. 11, 2026 at 1:06pm

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An abstract, impressionistic scene of soft, blurred colors and light, evoking the tranquil atmosphere of a lakeside park setting.State funding helps advance plans for a new waterfront park that will provide Ridgefield residents with more public green space and recreation along the shores of Lake River.Ridgefield Today

The Port of Ridgefield is one step closer to developing a long-awaited waterfront park after the Washington Legislature approved $100,000 in state funding for the 9-acre project along Lake River. Port Executive Director Ethan Perry said the park is a top priority for the community and the port plans to begin improvements on the site later this year using the new state funds.

Why it matters

The waterfront park project has been a goal for Ridgefield residents for years, as the community seeks to activate and enhance its lakefront area. The state funding represents a significant step forward in realizing this community vision and providing new public green space and recreation opportunities along the water.

The details

The $100,000 in state funds will allow the Port of Ridgefield to begin initial improvements on the 9-acre waterfront park site. The port plans to use this money to kickstart the development process, with the goal of completing the full park project in the coming years.

  • The Washington Legislature approved the $100,000 in funding during its 2026 legislative session.
  • The Port of Ridgefield expects to begin park improvements later in 2026 using the new state funds.

The players

Ethan Perry

The executive director of the Port of Ridgefield, which is leading the development of the waterfront park project.

Port of Ridgefield

The local port authority overseeing the planning and construction of the 9-acre waterfront park along Lake River in Ridgefield, Washington.

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What’s next

With the state funding secured, the Port of Ridgefield will now move forward with finalizing the park's design and construction plans, with the goal of completing the first phase of improvements by 2028.

The takeaway

The approval of state funds represents a major milestone in the long-running effort to transform Ridgefield's waterfront into a vibrant public space. This investment will help catalyze the development of the new park, which is poised to become a cherished community asset and draw more visitors to the city's scenic lakefront.