Submitted by City of Zillah
The City of Zillah has received a $341,000 grant from the Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office to add youth sports facilities at Adams Park. The grant comes through RCO’s Community Outdoor Athletic Facilities program, which funds outdoor athletic opportunities across the state.
Phase one of the project will feature two multi-use grass sports fields sized for youth-8 soccer and T-ball, as well as two pickleball courts. “Youth-8” refers to fields designed for children 8 years old and younger. These fields are smaller than standard adult fields—typically 25 to 35 yards wide and 15 to 25 yards long—giving young players space to run while keeping the game manageable for their size. Field lighting will also be installed.
Dr. Mayor Scott Carmack emphasized the project’s community benefits. “Adams Park hasn’t seen a major upgrade in nearly 30 years. This grant will create a safe, active space where kids can enjoy the outdoors and families can gather, helping keep Zillah a great place to live, shop, stay and play.”
The city plans to retain and reconfigure the existing playground amenities and the sheltered picnic bench, which was built by an Eagle Scout. A second phase, still awaiting funding, would expand parking and add restrooms.
“Project details will continue to be refined with input from local coaches, the city’s Parks & Recreation Coordinator, and neighbors of Adams Park,” said Carmack.
City Administrator Michael Grayum highlighted how the improvements build on the city’s commitment to enhancing community facilities. “Improving Adams Park builds on several outdoor recreation investments we’ve made across the community, including the new splash park at Stewart Park, new playground equipment, six pickleball courts, and the dog park at Loges Park. We’re also partnering with the Zillah School District on a long-term vision to create the Zillah Sports Hub, with more than 20 acres of multi-sport facilities for youth sports and regional tournaments.”
“I want to give a special thanks to our Community Development Director, Ardele Steele, who helps secure grant funding for these important projects, and our hard-working Public Works team, who maintain these facilities. This truly is a team effort that makes projects like this possible,” said Grayum.
