The 2023-2024 budget recently passed by King County Council included several investments into Federal Way organizations and youth programs.
“I am pleased I was able to secure funding for both new and established projects in South King County,” said Councilmember Pete von Reichbauer, who represents Federal Way on the King County Council. “These funds will support the completion of the first traditional Korean garden in Washington state, provide options for our students to succeed post-high school, and keep our youth off the streets.”
The budget allocates $150,000 to support the incoming Hanwoori Garden, located at 550 SW Campus Drive between the Panther Lake Trail and the King County Aquatic Center in Federal Way. The project plans include a pagoda, an open courtyard, traditional Korean pavilion and flower beds, as well as seasonal gardens, a stone waterbed, a Jangdokdae and serenity stones.
The Hanwoori Garden has been a work in progress since 2015, said Daniel Kim of the Federal Way Korean American Association. “This garden offers a new model for traditional and modern Korean design elements, and for their presentation of the Korean identity,” he said.
Another major investment is $250,000 to the Federal Way Public Schools district to support the Pre-Apprenticeship Program as part of the district’s Career and Technical Education. The program and courses provide students with hands-on training in various trades industries, mentorship and opportunities to earn industry-recognized certifications.
The Pre-Apprenticeship Program has opened doors for scholars in the district and streamlined their path to high-paying, in-demand jobs in the trades as students consider college and career opportunities after high school, said Federal Way Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Dani Pfeiffer.
“We’re grateful for the continued support of King County Councilmember Pete von Reichbauer as we continue to grow and strengthen the pre-apprenticeship program, continue to strengthen the collaboration with industry and trade professionals and ultimately provide this option to more of our young people,” Pfeiffer said.
In addition, the budget provides $150,000 for facility improvements at the South County Ballfields near Military Road South and South 354th Street in Auburn. Another $50,000 will support youth programs through the Federal Way Boys & Girls Club.
