Media Contact:
Sandy Mealing: (360) 902-8559
Wash. Telecommunications Relay Service: (800) 833-6388
State Parks launches new interactive website - New site enhances public service and information
OLYMPIA – Feb. 11, 2014 – The Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission announces the launch today of a new interactive website that allows the agency to provide improved public service and information about parks and programs.
The website, found at www.parks.wa.gov, has undergone a seven-month redesign process by State Parks staff working closely with CivicPlus, a private company that specializes in government website development. The new site has enhanced functionality, a cleaner layout and user-friendly navigation.
CivicPlus, based in Kansas, has developed more than 1400 government websites across the nation. The company was selected through a formal Request for Proposal process.
New website features include:
· Park videos and slide shows
· A site-wide search function
· Individualized park and agency meeting and events calendars
· Mega menus that allow more web pages to be found higher in the site structure
· Automatic archival or removal of expired items
· Google translation tool
· Google maps and park tours
The new website is intended to increase engagement with the public and to improve the flow of information between the agency and stakeholders. Visitors can sign up to receive automatic updates and alerts for park closures, agency events, meeting announcements and more.
The new website is best viewed on the most current versions of Internet browsers.
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Stay connected to your state parks by following Washington State Parks at www.facebook.com/WashingtonStateParks, www.twitter.com/WaStatePks_NEWS, www.foursquare.com/WAStatePks and www.youtube.com/WashingtonStateParks. Share your favorite state park adventure on the new State Parks’ blog site at www.AdventureAwaits.com.
The Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission manages a diverse system of more than 100 state parks and recreation programs, including long-distance trails, boating safety and winter recreation. For more information about parks and services, visit www.parks.wa.gov/.
Support state parks by purchasing your annual Discover Pass today, and enjoy a whole year of outdoor fun on Washington’s beautiful state-managed recreation lands. For more information, visit www.discoverpass.wa.gov.
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