What is it?
Access for All will provide increased funding for arts, science and heritage education and access for students and families throughout King County. With Access for All, we will invest in programs that change lives, give more kids access to the same opportunities and help our communities thrive.
Voters will be asked to increase cultural access funding by raising the county sales tax 0.1 percent — just one penny for every $10 spent, or $30 a year for the average household. If approved in August, we will increase funding for regional and community arts, science, and heritage institutions by about $70 million, which will be spent on programs like in-school education and free and reduced ticket programs for low-income and middle-class families.
Who Benefits?
Everyone in King County stands to benefit, but particularly those who are currently underserved due to socioeconomic, geographic, physical, and other barriers to access.
Education for Kids
Public school students in all 19 King County school districts will see a dramatic increase in free access to curriculum-related arts, science and heritage programs in-class and at cultural sites, with an emphasis on underserved students. The Access for All program includes substantial funds for student transportation to ensure that no student is denied access due to the high cost of bus transportation.
Equity and Inclusion
Nearly 40 major regional arts, science and heritage organizations, including the Woodland Park Zoo, Seattle Aquarium, Pacific Science Center and Museum of Flight, will offer free admission/tickets for low-income families and seniors. Institutions will also bring performances and programs to local communities through partnerships between regional and community based cultural organizations, and with other community-based nonprofits.
Opening Doors for All
In addition, these regional organizations will offer a range of free and low-cost opportunities for everyone in King County to take part in their programs and performances such as increased free days for all who wish to attend.
Investing in Local Communities
Community-based cultural organizations like local heritage museums, organizations serving disadvantaged and at-risk communities, botanical gardens, children’s theaters and music training programs, and local arts and science groups in every part of King County will receive dramatic increases in public funding under Access for All. Funding can be used flexibly by these groups to cover operating expenses, for capital projects and special needs.