Thurston County is expanding the parking lot at Deschutes Falls Park, with crews set to begin work Friday, Sept. 11.

The 155-acre park along Bald Hills Road in southeast Thurston County has long drawn more visitors than its gravel lot can handle. During summer months, cars spill onto the road, creating what county planners call a safety concern.

The county budgeted $155,000 for the expansion in 2026, according to Thurston County's Capital Improvement Program. Funding comes from park impact fees and the Real Estate Excise Tax.

The park will stay open throughout construction. Flaggers will be on site to guide visitors around equipment, Thurston County said in an Instagram post Wednesday, Sept. 2. Thurston County Public Works said on X that impacts should be minimal. Crews expect to finish by the end of September.

The project is part of broader improvements planned for Deschutes Falls Park, including walkway and viewpoint upgrades. Visitors can track construction updates on the county's project page for the parking expansion.