The Washington Climbers Coalition (WCC) has succeeded in its campaign to buy the Index Lower Town Wall, a premier rock climbing area near Index, Snohomish County.
With the exception of Mount Rainier, the Lower Town Wall is Washington’s most famous climbing destination, located at the site of a privately-owned former quarry.
In the spring of 2009, the private owner posted “No Trespassing” signs and began shopping the property for a renewed quarrying operation. With the help of a loan from the Access Fund (a national climbing advocacy group), the WCC purchased an option from the owner and raised sufficient funds to exercise that option.
The WCC is working with Washington State Parks on a possible donation of the property to State Parks. Washington State Parks already owns most of the property adjacent to the Lower Town Wall, including property containing the Upper Town Wall, which is another popular climbing destination. Snohomish County Parks has also expressed interest in the property in the event a transfer to State Parks is not possible.
Over 400 individual donors have contributed to this successful campaign. The WCC is continuing its campaign to meet or exceed its $300,000 fundraising goal, which will allow for capital improvements and long-term maintenance of the property.
The WCC plans to celebrate its success at Index next month. The event will dedicate the acquisition in the name of Stimson Bullitt (1919-2009), a prominent Seattle attorney, businessperson, and civic leader who in his later years developed a passion for rock climbing at Index. All donors, climbers, and the general public are invited to the Index Fund 2010 celebration in the town of Index, Washington, the afternoon of September 19, 2010. Admission will be free and activities will include a barbecue, dedication ceremony, slideshow, and opportunities for rock climbing.
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