Public invited to Greg J. Cuoio Community Park grand opening in Lacey 

The City of Lacey is getting ready to officially welcome the public to Greg J. Cuoio Community Park — its newest and largest park. 

A grand opening celebration is scheduled for Sept. 24 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at 2711 Carpenter Road NE. An official ribbon-cutting ceremony will begin at 6 p.m. 

Visitors can join a park explorer scavenger hunt, pick up stickers and giveaways, and get free ice cream from Sweetlee’s Ice Cream.

The South Puget Sound Disc Golf Association (SPSDGA) is going to host disc golf demonstrations, and a live DJ will provide music. Themed photo opportunities will also be available. 

Parking at the park is limited, and the city expects a large turnout. Intercity Transit will provide free shuttle service, which is accessible to people with disabilities, from Cabela’s parking lot at 1600 Gateway Blvd. NE. 

The first shuttle leaves Cabela’s at 5:30 p.m., with the final departure from Cuoio Park at 7:30 p.m. Families traveling with children must provide appropriate car seats or booster seats. 

Park features 

The first 139 acres of the park are now open to the public, as part of the 537-acre Greg Cuoio Park & Greenways. The new public area includes almost 3 miles of trails, a playground, picnic space and 2 acres of open grass. 

About 2.5 miles of gravel and mulch trails pass through forest and fields. Another one-half mile consists of paved, flat paths near the picnic shelter. 

An 8,000-square-foot, nature-themed playground includes three slides, a tree house, swings, synthetic turf and accessible elements, including a companion swing. The theme was selected following community feedback. 

A 2,200-square-foot picnic shelter near the playground has 12 tables available free on a first-come, first-served basis. The shelter, which is the largest in Lacey, can accommodate multiple groups at the same time. 

Portable toilets are available near the playground. Permanent restrooms are not yet available because additional funding is needed to install the necessary infrastructure, according to the city. 

An 18-hole disc golf course is open for play as development continues through a partnership with SPSDGA. Heavy brush and vegetation remain throughout the course, and the city recommends inspecting the area before playing and using a spotter to help locate discs. 

SPSDGA plans work parties in the coming months to improve fairways and install temporary tee pads. Public feedback is going to help determine final tee and basket locations. 

The park is named for former Lacey City Manager Greg J. Cuoio in recognition of his 24 years of public service. Cuoio helped secure the properties that became the city’s largest park.