Seattle has 2 new parks, but they don't have names. Any ideas?
Seattle is slated to get two new parks. But they don't have names yet. Maybe you can fix that.
The city of Seattle acquires various plots of land over the years that it now wants to turn into public parks.
RELATED: After years of waiting, Seattle is getting two new dog parks. They each cost more than $1 million
For example, in the North Rainier neighborhood (South Charlestown Street between 34th and 35th Avenues South), Seattle bought a parcel in 2011, then another in 2016, and another in 2021. It's putting these together to make new park space. The Parks and Recreation Department hasn't said much about plans for this site, but has said that "impervious surfacing," aka concrete or asphalt, will be limited to 15% of the site. It also mentions "trail and circulation surfaces."
The other location is in the South Park neighborhood (8456 Dallas Avenue South). The city purchased this .83 acres at the South Park River Walk in 2014. The Parks and Recreation Department says plans are being finalized, but so far they're aiming for an event space, play spaces for kids, seating, an open lawn area, and bioswales (giant rain garden-like features that filter pollution).
Name suggestions for the parks are due by Friday, May 31, 2024. A naming committee will take on the selection process.
RELATED: The love story that grew Seattle's 'secret garden'
The committee will have three members, selected by the Parks and Rec board, the City Council's parks committee, and the Seattle Parks and Recreation superintendent. They'll take into account names with geological features, historical or cultural significance, and location. Parks Superintendent A.P. Diaz will make the final name decision.