New facilities planned for Granite Falls park

By Leslie Moriarty

Herald Writer

GRANITE FALLS — There is only one lonely picnic table in Frank Mason Park today.

But come next summer, there will be a park shelter, barbecue areas, restrooms and walking paths.

The city soon will receive a $113,000 grant from Snohomish County for park improvements.

Formerly called Lake Gardner Park, it is located at Highway 92 and Crooked Mile Road. It is owned by the city and has been used by some for fishing and boating.

It was named for the original property owner who had a mill on the site. But recently, the city council renamed the park for Mason, a local resident who has been active in park development.

"I was flabbergasted when they told me," said Mason, a retired professor who spent a number of years in California, but returned to his native Washington 12 years ago.

The grant is part of $8.2 million in 2001 Neighborhood Improvement Fund Awards given for projects throughout the county. Frank Mason Park will be larger and offer more useable passive recreational space, once improved.

By adding a T-shaped fishing dock, a stocked fishing program for boys and girls will be enhanced, Mason said.

"This year it was stocked with 500 trout, and that kept the kids fishing all summer long," he said.

Mason said the park is the entrance to the city and by creating a more inviting area, the city’s appeal will be increased.

The improvements are supported by the city, the Granite Falls School District, the fire department, Lions and Eagles clubs, and Boy Scouts, church groups and Volunteers for Outdoor Washington.

Many individuals have promised volunteer labor for the park improvements, Mason said.

Because of the growing population in the area, parks are always in need, Mason said. He said the city has several parks for active use, including basketball and baseball facilities.

But this park is planned as a place where families can go for leisurely outings.

In all, the city has purchased the 10-acre lake and about 17 acres of land surrounding the lake. Some of the land has a variety of trees, and interpretive nature trails are planned.

As a former member of the city’s planning commission and now chairman of its park commission, Mason said he knows the importance of creating parks and preserving open space.

"We’re doing everything we can to get parks in the city," he said.

You can call Herald Writer Leslie Moriarty at 425-339-3436 or send e-mail to moriarty@heraldnet.com.