New King County Park Rangers to begin patrolling Saturday

King County will deploy park rangers on June 7 to enhance safety at regional parks and trails. The King County Council approved $1. 6 million for the program, creating six permanent and five seasonal ranger positions. Following public complaints about trailhead break-ins and vandalism, community outreach revealed a desire for more official staff presence to foster a safe environment. Rangers will patrol in pairs and focus on backcountry and bike areas, adapting assignments based on visitor activity.

The initiative aims to improve safety and accessibility while promoting positive interactions through community engagement. This program complements existing law enforcement efforts funded by King County Parks. Councilmember Dunn emphasized the importance of addressing public concerns regarding trailhead safety. The rangers will be easily identifiable by their uniforms and insignia, enhancing their visibility among park visitors. This proactive approach reflects King County Parks' commitment to maintaining a welcoming atmosphere in public spaces.