The improvements at Tam O’Shanter Park have brought new life to the centerpiece of the Kelso park system, and were funded mostly with grants. David and other staff worked with the area’s state legislators to obtain grant funding from the State of Washington to help create additional parking, repave neglected surfaces, and improve the park’s circulation during large events like the Highlander Festival.

David especially had a hand in getting the front parking lot repaved this year. Staff had recommended moving that portion of the project back into a later period. David argued that repairing the interior of the park but having a failed lot at the entrance was nonsensical, and convinced the council to include the entry lot in the first project phase.