Vancouver, WA
This photo shows the Downs Neighborhood Park sign with blooming cherry trees and the current playground in the background.

Downs Park ARPA Improvements

The Downs Neighborhood Park (3217 NE 62nd Ave.) is getting new features to make it more comfortable and welcoming for the community. This 3.2-acre park serves the Bagley Downs neighborhood in central Vancouver and is part of the City’s Naturespaces program, which improves and restores green spaces in the area.

Project overview

The improvements at The Downs Park are being funded through Fourth Plain for All, a City plan to invest over $25 million into central Vancouver neighborhoods near Fourth Plain Boulevard. This funding comes from the federal American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). The project team worked with local community members to develop a plan that includes various investments in the Fourth Plain area, and upgrades at The Downs Park were part of this plan.

The Fourth Plain for All Investment Strategy Committee identified four key improvements for the park:

  • Picnic Shelter: A new shelter with a “leaky roof” design that will provide shade on sunny days and help prevent unauthorized use during rainy weather.

  • Half-Court Basketball: A basketball half-court will offer fun for all skill levels, and the paved area can also be used for other types of play.

  • Irrigation System: New irrigation will make the lawn area more inviting and comfortable for outdoor activities during the warmer months.

  • Security Lighting: New lighting on the east side of the park will improve visibility and help keep the park safe after dark.

These improvements represent a $540,000 investment in The Downs Neighborhood Park.

Neighborhood involvement

Park planners worked with neighbors in 2025 to select where the new features should go in the park. Construction is set for March-July 2026.

image of park
Melody Burton
Melody Burton
Senior Communications Specialist | melody.burton@cityofvancouver.us

Project Timeline

December 2024 - May 2025 Community Engagement and Design
City staff will work with neighbors through an online survey to finalize the design and placement of park improvements.
June – December 2025: Construction Preparation
Construction plans and materials will be ordered based on the approved design, and necessary permits will be obtained.
January – July 2026: Construction
The City will hire a contractor to carry out the work. Neighbors will be informed in advance about any potential construction impacts. The park improvements will be built during this time, and some areas may be closed to the public.

Project Updates

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