New restrooms, a children’s play area and a second picnic shelter are among proposed changes in a $4.6 million improvement project planned to begin at Owen Beach in 2018.

But before changes are made, Metro Parks Tacoma is gathering public opinion through an online survey: www.metroparkstacoma.org/dpd-owen.

The survey asks what people most like about Owen Beach, what most needs improvement there and to rank priorities.

The design process involves a series of public meetings where members of the public are invited to consider plans. Designs unveiled at the first meeting on Dec. 7 may be viewed at www.DestinationPointDefiance.org.

The Metro Parks department asks that the public contribute by completing the survey and, if possible, attend a follow-up public meeting at 6 p.m. Feb. 15 at the Pagoda in Point Defiance Park.

Metro Parks aims to begin construction in September 2018 and complete the job by May 2019. To do it, Metro Parks has secured a $2.25 million grant from the state Recreation and Conservation Office. Other costs will be covered as part of the $198 million capital improvement bond approved by Metro Parks voters in 2014.

The Owen Beach improvement project is part of the Destination Point Defiance initiative, which also includes other waterfront improvements and the Pacific Seas Aquarium in Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium.

If you have a question or would like to comment, call Project Manager Kristi Evans at (253) 305-1054 or send an email message to kristie@tacomaparks.com.

Familiarize yourself with Owen Beach online:

www.metroparkstacoma.org/point-d-owen-beach/

– Metro Parks Tacoma