This Saturday, Buckley will host two significant community events aimed at enhancing local engagement and infrastructure. The first, \"Beautify Buckley,\" is scheduled from 9 AM to noon, beginning with a flag-raising ceremony by the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) at the newly completed Veterans Monument. The event will feature a performance by the Glacier Middle School choir, followed by volunteer-led beautification and cleanup projects throughout the town. Community members are encouraged to participate, either by showing up on the day or by contacting event organizers in advance.

Later that day, the White River Bridge opening ceremony will take place at 11 AM. This event, primarily organized by King County in partnership with the city of Buckley, has limited parking availability, prompting officials to recommend attendees use nearby trails to access the site. Although the event is free, only 250 tickets were issued, highlighting the anticipated turnout.

In addition to these events, city officials provided updates on ongoing projects. The Planning Commission recently held its first public hearing on the comprehensive plan, with another scheduled for October. A public hearing for the essential public facilities ordinance is also forthcoming. The city is working on a complete streets ordinance to ensure that road improvements accommodate various forms of transportation, including biking and walking, which is essential for securing future funding.

Plans for a no camping and overnight parking ordinance are in progress, with language currently being drafted in light of recent Supreme Court decisions. The Rails to Trails Coalition has submitted building permits for the Doctor Tate Pavilion, with electrical work for trailhead bathrooms expected to commence shortly. City officials remain optimistic about the timeline for these projects, including the anticipated completion of city hall by late spring or early summer next year.

As the community gears up for these events and projects, local leaders are focused on fostering engagement and improving infrastructure to benefit residents.