The capital budget proposed by the senate includes more than $3.5 million to replace the aging restrooms and restore Sunset Beach at Lake Sammamish State Park.

“This is what we’ve been fighting for,” said Mark Mullet, in his first year as a District 5 senator. Mullet said money needs to be invested into the park because it’s one of the few urban state parks, easily accessible, not requiring a day or weekend trip to enjoy it. He said the state would benefit by more people using the park by purchasing the Discover Pass. The pass cost $10 for a day, or $30 annually.

A new group, “Friends of Lake Sammamish State Park,” will hold its third meeting Thursday, April 18, at 6:30 p.m. at Gibson Hall, 105 Newport Way SW. The group will be presenting the work it has done thus far, and asking interested citizens to become a member of its board of directors, or a committee.

The budget also includes $5 million in funding for the North Issaquah Local Improvement District (LID) which will ease traffic flow through the Pickering Place business area.

“We’re putting up $5 million out of $50 million,” Mullet said.  “If Costco expands their headquarters, this should be a good investment for the public through sales tax revenue.”

The budget should be complete by April 28 Mullet said.

“If all of these projects stay funded as we reconcile this budget proposal with the House, our district will benefit greatly,” Mullet said.