Innovative Solutions for public projects

Summit Park & Ball Fields Master Plan transformed a 15-acre site owned by the City of Maple Valley into the largest park within its system. Summit Park also serves as a major link for a county Rails to Trails trail to the new Tahoma High School. 

The project required an extensive effort into engaging the local community in the decision-making process. The stakeholder list included federal agencies, county parks, school district, city staff, and a vocal and active community. The group provided a robust public engagement process, including innovative feedback sessions at unorthodox locations, like tent setups at farmers' markets, holiday tree lighting ceremonies, and public library design charrettes. This process led to surprising changes in the master plan and park programming. Notably, the community's interest in a skate park evolved from initial concepts, resulting in a $1,000,000 custom-built skate park that now attracts regional competitions. Erik led this project as the prime consultant.