The people voted. The people have spoken.

This week, King County Executive Dow Constantine announced that $11.75 million in grants funded through the participatory budgeting process will support 42 projects and programs chosen by community members in unincorporated King County.

Projects selected by the community to receive funding are located in the unincorporated communities of East Federal Way, East Renton, Fairwood, Skyway/West Hill, and White Center/North Highline.

View or download a full list of awarded projects

Residents voted for the Federal Way Senior Center to receive funds to improve safety, accessibility and comfort at the center.

Here are some of the projects that will receive participatory budgeting grants:

  • The Evergreen Aquatic Center, a non-profit indoor pool in White Center, will receive $750,000 for building and facility renovations. The aquatic center promotes health, wellness, and water safety for people of all ages — supporting equitable access to swimming programs.
  • The East Renton community will receive $600,000 to build a grass practice area for lacrosse at Maplewood Park. The practice field will benefit over 300 participating families, many from underserved and marginalized communities.
  • The Skyway Resource Center will receive $250,000 to help finish building the new community hub.
  • The Federal Way Senior Center will receive $210,000 to improve safety, accessibility, and comfort at the center, creating a more inclusive space and allowing for expanded services to support seniors better and strengthen community bonds.
  • The Highline School District will receive $700,000 to upgrade White Center Heights Elementary’s playground to support the school soccer program and create an outdoor space for community use.
  • The White Center Food Bank will receive $200,000 to support the growing demand for food from community members, up nearly 40% from last year.
  • Double Dutch Divas will receive $120,000 for programs that combine fitness, fun, and social connection through double dutch jump rope sessions at schools, local parks, and community spaces. The program helps foster teamwork, leadership, and healthy living.
  • Speak with Purpose will receive $96,000 for student public speaking classes.
Community voted to fund the Double Dutch Divas to provide programs that combine fitness, fun and social connection through jump-rope sessions.

The participatory budgeting process, which Executive Constantine and the King County Council launched in 2021, is centered on community participation and collaboration. Community members submit ideas for improvements, projects, programs, or services that would make a positive difference in their neighborhood and vote to choose which will be funded. This year, voter participation nearly doubled from the inaugural round two years ago.

“Participatory Budgeting is about not only listening to the community, but also sharing power, management, and confidence to residents in unincorporated King County who know what is needed to make the greatest impact. The process provides choices while investing in opportunities that upend historical and racial inequities. This is how we continue making King County a place where every person can thrive.” – King County Executive Dow Constantine

“This is truly a milestone for Participatory Budgeting. It stands as a testament to the dedication and determination of our community members and staff, highlighting the remarkable outcomes that arise when local government and the communities it serves work together in true collaboration.” – Department of Local Services Director Leon Richardson