Blog

May 2, 2025

BAINBRIDGE ISLAND, WA – The Bainbridge Island Land Trust, together with its partners— the Bainbridge Island Metro Park and Recreation District and the Bainbridge Island Parks & Trails Foundation—announces the success of the collaborative campaign to protect the 38-acre parcel at Grand Forest East. Launched on short notice and under an urgent timeline, the campaign received an extraordinary outpouring of generosity and support.

Announced only two months ago with a goal to raise over $2.2 million, the campaign faced a tight timeline after the announcement by the Bainbridge Island School District to surplus the 38- acre property in February. The success of this campaign was vital to ensure the property could be purchased by the Park District, which will preserve the land for recreation and conservation. The parcel has been managed as part of the Grand Forest parkland for more than 30 years, even though it was owned by the School District as a possible school site.

The community responded swiftly with contributions from hundreds of supporters, including a transformational gift by a private conservation fund established by an Island family, allowing this campaign to reach its ambitious goal in a short timeframe. The success ensures that the property will remain preserved as a public park for future generations, securing its place in the heart of the Island’s natural landscape.

“We are incredibly grateful to the Bainbridge Island community for its overwhelming support for the Stand for the Grand Forest campaign,” said Cullen Brady, Executive Director of the Bainbridge Island Land Trust. “This collaboration has been a wonderful example of how we can come together to protect the Island’s most cherished places. This campaign demonstrated the strength and unity of this community by ensuring this land remains in public ownership.”

The property, which is part of the greater Grand Forest, holds significant ecological value, serving as a critical wildlife corridor and habitat for numerous species, including the pileated woodpecker, great horned owl, and flying squirrel. The land will continue to be enjoyed by hikers, runners, cyclists, birdwatchers, and equestrians, who have long utilized the established trail network.

Through a Land Trust held permanent deed restriction, the property’s public access and conservation values will endure as treasured community resources forever.

“We’re grateful for the support of every single donor and the voices that helped amplify this effort,” Brady said. “We are thrilled that this special place will continue to inspire and benefit the community in the years ahead.”