Summary
King County Parks will host a community event on Saturday, June 6 to celebrate the completion of a multi-year project that restored Dockton Park and Marina on Vashon, three years after renovating the nearby playground.
News
King County Parks will host a community celebration Saturday to celebrate the restored Dockton Park and Marina on Vashon, completing a multi-year project that modernized the aging facility with safer, more durable and environmentally friendly infrastructure while improving shoreline access.
The project replaced the floating dock, breakwater, finger piers, and pilings, improved moorage facilities such as upgraded utilities, fire suppression system, sewage pump out station, installed a new swim dock constructed with plastic grating that lets light through and creates better habitat for sea life, and included structural and safety improvements.
King County Parks previously renovated in 2023 with a ship-themed play structure featuring improved ADA accessibility, slides, swings, climbing features, musical play elements, and a scenic waterfront view.
“At our marina on Vashon and at county- and city-owned parks throughout our region, we’re upgrading facilities and adding amenities to offer people and families a better experience,” said King County Executive Girmay Zahilay. “We’re delivering on the promise of the King County Parks Levy to enhance the places that keep communities connected.”
The project applies the multi-benefit approach that the Department of Natural Resources and Parks applies to capital projects, simultaneously restoring habitat, improving water quality, preserving healthy greenspace, and improving access to outdoor recreation for people of all abilities. Other recent examples
The Dockton Marina and Park projects received grant funding from the Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office and funds generated by the Kint County Parks Levy, advancing King County Parks’ vision for recreational facilities that are safe, sustainable, and welcoming for future generations.
The contractors for the marina upgrades, Redside Construction and Pacific Pile and Marine, completed the complex waterfront project while meeting strict environmental and regulatory requirements.
“The newly upgraded Dockton Park and Marina shows the King County Parks Levy at work — enhancing parks, adding amenities like the new playground, and expanding access to outdoor recreation,” said King County Councilmember Teresa Mosqueda. “I’m thrilled that the Dockton public boat launch, beach, and park are open and ready to welcome people and families with places to gather, explore, and enjoy summertime on Vashon!”
The community celebration scheduled for Saturday, June 6 will feature hands‑on activities led by local groups, from a boat showcase by the Quartermaster Yacht Club to knot‑tying demonstrations by teen sailors from the Sea Scout Ship Odyssey. Guests will have the opportunity to connect with Vashon Heritage Museum, Vashon Bird Alliance, and Vashon Nature Center.
Event details for community celebration
- WHEN: 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, June 6
- WHERE: Dockton Park and Marina: 9500 Southwest Dock Street, Vashon, Washington 98070
- REGISTER: Registration at Eventbrite is encouraged for the free event
- PARKING: Parking is limited so please consider taking transit, carpooling, biking, sailing or boating
“Dockton Marina has long been an important gathering place for the Vashon community, and we’re proud to celebrate the completion of these renovations that make the facility safer, more resilient, and better equipped to serve visitors for years to come. We look forward to the celebration, made possible because of the many local organizations and partners who have come together to welcome people to the marina!”
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Quotes
“At our marina on Vashon and at county- and city-owned parks throughout our region, we’re upgrading facilities and adding amenities to offer people and families a better experience. We’re delivering on the promise of the King County Parks Levy to enhance the places that keep communities connected.”
Girmay Zahilay
King County Executive
“The newly upgraded Dockton Park and Marina shows the King County Parks Levy at work — enhancing parks, adding amenities like the new playground, and expanding access to outdoor recreation. I’m thrilled that the Dockton public boat launch, beach, and park are open and ready to welcome people and families with places to gather, explore, and enjoy summertime on Vashon!”
Teresa Mosqueda
King County Councilmember
“Dockton Marina has long been an important gathering place for the Vashon community, and we’re proud to celebrate the completion of these renovations that make the facility safer, more resilient, and better equipped to serve visitors for years to come. We look forward to the celebration, made possible because of the many local organizations and partners who have come together to welcome people to the marina!”
Warren Jimenez
Director of King County Parks
Contact
Eleanor Lee, King County Parks