July 30, 2026

CITY MANAGER'S MESSAGE

Celebrating the Opening of Greg Cuoio Park

More than fifteen years ago, the vision to preserve this land first took root. Today, that vision has become Greg Cuoio Park, a place for community connections, where families can gather, children can play, and all can experience the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest we call home. It's especially meaningful that this incredible community asset bears the name of the City Manager whose vision, leadership, and action helped make it possible.

I had the privilege of working alongside former City Manager Greg Cuoio during his 24 years of service to Lacey, and I can tell you this park reflects who he is. Greg believed in protecting the things that make our community special; not just for today, but for future generations. His leadership helped preserve these remarkable lands so families could connect with nature and wildlife could thrive.

At 537 acres, Greg Cuoio Park and Greenway system is now the largest park in Lacey and one of the region's most significant natural spaces (see additional park details below). As you explore the trails or watch children discover the playground, I hope you'll take a moment to appreciate the foresight it took to preserve this land. Parks like this are the result of thoughtful planning, community support, and leaders willing to invest in the future.

I can't think of a more fitting tribute to Greg than seeing families create memories in a place that exists because of his dedication to Lacey. His legacy isn't just found on the entrance sign; it's in every trail explored, every picnic shared, every natural element surrounding you, and every generation that will enjoy this remarkable park for years to come.

I hope you'll visit Greg Cuoio Park soon and experience this extraordinary community treasure for yourself!

— Rick Walk

NEWS & UPDATES

REMINDER! City Council Meeting Rescheduled

Mark your calendars! Election day is on Tuesday, August 4. We have moved our City Council Meeting to Monday, August 3, to ensure voters can cast their ballots.

To see all upcoming public meetings, visit our website.

The Wait is Over—Come Explore Greg Cuoio Park!

Lacey's newest and largest park is now open, and we can't wait for you to experience it! Phase 1A of Greg Cuoio Park (Cuoio Park) welcomes visitors to explore 139 developed acres of beautiful natural space designed for recreation, exploration, and connection with nature.

What will you find when you visit?

Discover three miles of forested trails
Enjoy a nature-themed, inclusive, and accessible playground
Relax and play in two acres of open lawn
Gather with family and friends at the large picnic shelter featuring 12 picnic tables.

Visitors can also try the temporary disc golf course, with a permanent 18-hole course planned for the future in partnership with the South Puget Sound Disc Golf Association.

Cuoio Park, located at 2711 Carpenter Road NE, is part of the larger 537-acre Greg Cuoio Park and Greenways system, which protects forests, wetlands, streams, and wildlife habitat while providing meaningful outdoor recreation opportunities for the community. Future phases of the park will continue to balance environmental stewardship with thoughtful recreational amenities.

To learn more about Cuoio Park, future development plans, frequently asked questions, and park updates, visit LaceyParks.org/Cuoio. We hope to see you on the trails!

What's the Latest in Lacey? Let's catch up:

We are still accepting Lodging Tax Funding applications! Submit your application by Friday, August 21. Full details on the award and application can be found on the LTAC webpage.

The Lacey Night Market continues! Join us for the next Market at the Lacey Depot on Friday, August 7. The theme for the night is K-Pop. View all upcoming markets, parking details, and other information on our Night Market webpage.

Reminder: We have rescheduled our next City Council meeting to Monday, August 3.

Apply for 2027 Lodging Tax Funding Now!

The City of Lacey is now accepting applications for
2027 lodging tax funding. This program supports organizations that promote tourism in Lacey and its Urban Growth Area through events, marketing, and other visitor-focused activities. If your organization attracts overnight visitors and boosts the local economy, this funding could be a great fit!

Deadline: Submit your application by Friday, August 21, 2026, at 5 p.m. Late submissions will not be accepted.

Learn more and apply online on the LTAC webpage.

COMMUNITY EVENTS

FREE, Live Entertainment All Summer Long!

Get ready for a season packed with free concerts, movies, and family-friendly entertainment — all summer long at Huntamer Park! From live music to outdoor movie nights, there’s something for everyone.

Children's Entertainment Series:

Eric Ode

Tuesday, August 4 | 6:30 p.m.

Eric Ode (pronounced Oh-dee) is a word-weaver – a nationally award-winning children’s singer-songwriter, a widely published author and poet, and a thoroughly engaging entertainer. His upbeat, high-participation programs bubble over with fun, interactive music and include stories, skits, poetry, props, and puppets.

Noon Toons:

Platinum Soul

Wednesday, August 5 | 12 p.m. Noon

Prepare yourself for a musical ride down funky street with jammin’ hits and good times! Platinum Soul generates the excitement and enthusiasm that will have every crowd on its feet and dancing to the beat. The band consists of seasoned musicians who put on a show that is often imitated but rarely duplicated by other bands.

Music and Movies

Music: 13 Til Midnight

Movie: Zootopia 2

Friday, August 7 | 7 p.m.

Swifties — this one is for you! Come listen to 13 Til Midnight, the Taylor Swift Tribute Band. Top vocal talent and a studio-quality band will perform Taylor's greatest hits from all eras. The concert starts at 7 p.m., then settle in for a showing of "Zootopia 2" starting at dusk!

For a full listing of this year's Lacey In Tune: Summer Entertainment Series, visit the Parks, Culture, and Recreation website.

Walls Looking Bare? Come to Creativity Corner!

Join us at the Lacey Museum all August long for a fun and creative pennant-making event!

Our museum staff will guide visitors through making a pennant flag. Whether you choose to honor your school colors, create an inspiring message, or dream up a unique design, we’ll show you how to put your flag together.

Visit us Thursday and Friday 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. or Saturday 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

This activity is FREE and open to all ages.

Visit the Lacey Parks website for event details.

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