U.S. Rep. Adam Smith is pushing for $3 million in federal funding to support a major redesign and expansion of Midway Park in Des Moines, part of a broader effort to revitalize public spaces in Washington’s 9th Congressional District.

The proposed improvements target accessibility, safety and usability for the Pacific Ridge neighborhood, where the park is currently underutilized due to limited infrastructure, outdated lighting, and poor visibility.

The project would modernize facilities and add new play areas, walking paths and family-friendly features.

“The proposed improvements will modernize the facility, add new play and recreation features, and transform the space into a safe, inclusive, and well-utilized neighborhood park,” Rep. Smith said in a statement shared on social media.

According to materials released by Smith’s office, the redesigned park would also include expanded green space and durable, aesthetically pleasing amenities to support a healthy lifestyle and promote community gatherings.

The City of Des Moines, which owns the park, hopes the changes will address long-standing safety concerns, such as abandoned cars and lack of visibility, and provide more inclusive recreational opportunities for families in an underserved area.

Smith’s funding request is part of his FY2025 Community Project Funding submissions, which direct federal dollars toward locally selected public needs.

More information is available at adamsmith.house.gov/CPFFY26.