People in Puyallup use their publicly-owned parks for many purposes. To play, to hike, to fish. To recreate or relax. To get together with family or friends for a walk or a concert, or to share a meal. To simply be outside and get some fresh air, whatever the season.
Over the years, Puyallup’s park system has grown to include a community garden, skate park and off-leash dog park. Most recently, in late 2015 the City purchased 18 acres near Shaw Road East and Pioneer Way East from Neil Van Lierop. This land is now being developed into a community park to honor the legacy of five generations of the Van Lierop family who farmed the site beginning in 1934.
During 2016 and 2017, a public process was undertaken to create a Master Plan to identify what Van Lierop Park will offer. The park’s first phase of development, scheduled to be undertaken next summer, will include the initial segment of a multiuse trail, a vista corridor and plaza, temporary gravel parking and a temporary trail connection to 134th Avenue East. The multiuse trail will be named the “Ernie Bay Connector” in honor of the longtime Puyallup resident and trail activist.
In the future, Van Lierop Park may also feature a year-round sports field with lighting, a meadow, a fruit tree orchard and a farm-themed play area, among other amenities.