Greg J. Cuoio Community Park in Lacey eyes fall opening with first phase work nearly complete

The first phase of construction at Greg J. Cuoio Community Park has entered its final stages, with the City of Lacey confirming its tentative opening this fall. 

The city announced on Thursday, Aug. 21, that crews are finishing trails, installing kiosks, and building the playground and large picnic shelter at the 537-acre park in north Lacey. 

The announcement said the site will also include about 2 miles of paved and soft-surface trails, an 18-hole disc golf course, flexible open space, and a driveway connection from Carpenter Road with roughly 75 parking stalls. 

According to the city’s project plan, the playground integrates climbing, crawling and sliding features on synthetic turf with a ramped entry. 

A swing assembly is being installed for different ages and abilities, including a companion swing that the Lacey Parks, Culture & Recreation Department identified as “the first of its type in the Lacey Parks” system. 

The 18-hole disc golf course is being developed with input from the South Puget Sound Disc Golf Association, which is working with the city to install baskets and tees. Temporary equipment will also be placed first so players can test layouts before permanent installation. 

The picnic shelter is planned to accommodate 12 tables, adding capacity for gatherings and events. The core area will also include uncovered tables and grass space for informal use. 

Phase 1A carries an estimated cost of $6.5 million. Records show the city secured $999,550 through external awards, including $499,550 from a state legislative appropriation and $500,000 from the Washington Wildlife and Recreation Program. The remainder comes from city sources. 

Greg Cuoio Park & Greenways was assembled between 2002 and 2012 through several acquisitions. 

The site, totaling 537 acres of forest, wetlands and tributaries, was named for former City Manager Greg Cuoio in recognition of his 24 years of service. 

A master plan finalized in 2022 set the long-term vision after public surveys, open houses and stakeholder meetings, giving shape to the development now approaching its first public opening. 

The city said the park remains closed during construction, and access points will stay restricted until work is complete.  

Lacey Parks, Culture & Recreation projected a fall opening for the first phase once finishing work and safety checks are carried out.