Manson Parks & Recreation to transform Leffler Field

MANSON – After initial complications to the purchase of Leffler Field, the Manson Parks and Recreation Department came out triumphant in partnership with the Manson School District to retain the land for public usage. Without this timely procurement of the field, which has served as community space for over two decades, the land would house commercial buildings. The field is nearly five acres, undeveloped, and walking distance from downtown Manson, a rare set of qualities for land in the area.
The Manson Parks and Recreation Department was recently awarded a conditional $574,550 grant by the Washington Wildlife and Recreation Program toward the intended purchase of Leffler Field, enabling them to eventually become sole owners of the land. This is a huge triumph, as many grant opportunities that would facilitate continued development are only available to the department if they are sole owners of the field.
Before being granted these funds, however, the Manson Parks and Recreation Department needs to be able to ensure the clarity of the soil to allow for a clean and safe play area for children and families. A $200,000 planning grant from the Department of Ecology will allow for in-depth soil testing and strategic soil remediation toward this goal.
Development plans for Leffler Field remain tentative, though some suggested projects include the development of walking trails, a covered amphitheater space (an effort that would directly support the Manson School District music program as a potential performance space), a natural play area, generous parking area with bus turnarounds, and bathrooms that would be accessible year-round.