April 27, 2006
White Center community and tech center funding wins approval
Laptop computers, brain games and a student-operated on-line radio station will be featured in after school programs at a planned Community Center in King County's Lakewood Park. The County Council Budget Committee today approved release of $2 million for the project that includes an innovative public-private partnership with the Technology Access Foundation (TAF) and a place for a variety of community gatherings.
"This is a perfect example of the new entrepreneurial approach King County Parks is taking to provide needed community programs without increasing operating costs," said King County Executive Ron Sims. "This community center will transform an underserved area into a positive community center with classes, programs and events. The after school technology programs in this economically depressed area could literally change the course of children's lives."
The new building, three stories, measuring 20,000 square feet, will transform Lakewood Park into a community and regional hub for learning and personal development. TAF will construct and operate the community center for thirty years. The center will house TAF's tremendously successful youth technology programs as well as offer a wide cadre of classes and activities provided through nonprofit partners and collaborations with public school systems.
This project is a component of the county's White Center Community Enhancement Initiative, an effort to ensure the long-term viability of the White Center community. The community center, and the public/private partnership at its foundation, also reflects the policy direction established in the 2002 King County Parks Business Plan to use strategic partnerships to enhance park amenities without increasing ongoing operating costs. King County's $2 million investment is leveraging $11 million in capital funds and 30 years of programming towards the revitalization of Lakewood Park and creation of a public amenity.
In addition to the after school programs for students in the area, the building will include meeting space, a commercial kitchen and host a variety of community events.
"This agreement represents another step in King County's continuing efforts to work with White Center residents to revitalize their community," said Councilmember Dow Constantine, chair of the Operating Budget Committee. "The Technology Access Foundation project is an exceptional opportunity for partnership between King County, the foundation and the neighborhood."
During testimony at the budget committee meeting, TAF founder and Executive Director Trish Millines-Dziko announced the receipt of a $1 million grant from the Gates Foundation. The total cost is $13 million. Groundbreaking on the center is expected next spring.
The full County Council is expected to vote on this legislation on Monday, May 8.