Conceptual planning and public outreach for multi-use trails at Rotary Bark Park will begin in Fall 2026.
Project Summary
PenMet Parks is beginning Phase 1 of Community Multi-Use Trails as identified by the Parks Recreation and Open Space (PROS) Plan, located on the west side of Bujacich Road. Staff are currently working to bring a consultant on board to complete an initial feasibility assessment, look at conceptual designs and engage the public through outreach events.
The goals of this project are to engage the community, further evaluate the feasibility and community support for developing multi-use trails, including how trails might be separated for hiking, dog walking, biking and horseback riding. The project will assess potential environmental impacts and identify Pierce County parking requirements. The project team will carefully develop conceptual design(s) to avoid adverse environmental impacts, preserving sensitive areas such as wetlands, trees of significance, and other ecologically significant habitats, and prepare a preliminary parking design with a cost estimate.
PenMet Parks is taking a deliberate, step-by-step approach to this project. We will first examine feasibility and then evaluate several conceptual designs, including new parking options, while conducting extensive public outreach. Public input is a critical component of our approach and there will be multiple opportunities for community members to provide feedback. More information will be available at this site, including public meeting notices once scheduled.
Learn more about McCormick Forest and Rotary Bark Park.
Project Schedule
| Project Phase | Anticipated Schedule |
| Consultant Procurement | Summer 2026 |
| Conceptual Planning and Public Outreach | Fall 2026 |
| Design and Construction | To Be Determined |
Project Cost and Funding
This project is part of PenMet Parks’ Capital Improvements Plan. The project budget is $550,000.
Project FAQs
Is Rotary Bark Park being closed and replaced with biking trails?
No. The proposed project is to provide multi-use, non-motorized trails for uses like hiking, walking, biking, and horse riding at Rotary Bark Park on the west side of Bujacich Road. The existing off-leash dog area will not be affected.
Will this project affect the fenced off-leash dog area at Rotary Bark Park?
No. The fenced dog park will remain and will continue to be available for use by park visitors and their dogs.
What changes are happening on the trails? Will it affect the current trails?
Concept planning is scheduled for 2026. The project envisions new multi-use trails and will consider important elements of the park like the existing trails and sensitive areas.
When the project begins, there will be opportunities for the public to provide input that will be important in developing the final design.
Why does this project focus on trails?
Our community has identified walking and hiking trails and mountain bike trails as some of its highest priorities in the 2023 Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Plan. Read more about these and other priorities here.
Are the new trails for motorized bikes or dirt bikes?
No. All PenMet Parks trails are for non-motorized use only.
How will hikers and cyclists safely share these trails if they are multi-use?
The project design will address safety for all trail users.
Where did the concept that was shared at Scarecrow Festival in 2024 come from? Is that the official design?
The concept shared at Scarecrow Festival does not represent the final design. The concept, which was developed by a community non-profit organization, shows a preliminary depiction of a possible trail location. A full design, public outreach and environmental studies will be key components of this upcoming project.
Project Management
If you have further questions, please contact: [email protected]