Smith Cove Park Development
Updated: March 15, 2024
Spring 2024
Current stormwater codes have changed since the original design of the park (since it was put on hold due to COVID-19 budget impacts). Construction timing is dependent on what changes will need to be made to the design and obtaining permits.
We have completed the investigation phase to determine the required updates to the design to meet current stormwater code requirements and are proceeding with the design.
Estimated Timing:
- 2023 - currently in the early stages of getting a design consultant back on board. Work this year includes adjusting plans to meet updated stormwater codes.
- 2024-2025 - complete updated design and submit plans to SDCI for permits. Advertising the project for construction is dependent on obtaining permits. Construction will begin once permits and bidding is completed.
- 2025 - Phase 1 Construction complete and grow-in period for grass field begins.
Location
Smith Cove Park, 23rd Ave W, between the Magnolia Bridge and the Elliott Bay Marina
Schedule
Design - Pre 2020 Hold: Fall 2016 - Fall/Winter 2019
Estimated Timing - Post 2020 Hold:
- 2023 - currently in the early stages of getting a design consultant back on board. Work this year includes adjusting plans to meet updated stormwater codes.
- 2024-2025 - complete updated design and submit plans to SDCI for permits. Advertising the project for construction is dependent on obtaining permits. Construction will begin once permits and bidding is completed.
- 2025 - Phase 1 Construction complete and grow-in period for grass field begins.
Project Details
In 2015, the Friends of Smith Cove Park (FoSCP) received a grant from the City of Seattle Department of Neighborhoods to undertake the initial public outreach and conceptual design for the expansion of Smith Cove Park. The FoSCP developed a concept in 2015, with input from the Queen Anne and Magnolia communities which organized potential uses across the site. In early 2016 Seattle Parks and Recreation (SPR) hired GGN as the design consultant. Amenities may include paths, landscaping, waterfront access points, a play area, and related improvements. Additional improvements will be made to the existing part of Smith Cove Park (west of this site), currently used for sports. The improved park will provide waterfront access and ADA accessibility, enhance active recreation opportunities, increase environmental sensitivity, and make the park inviting and usable for more people.
The phased approach will first develop the property's west parcel/playfield with the existing project budget. SPR is working to secure additional funding to build out the east parcel/shoreline side. The west parcel improvements include:
- Dog park
- Field renovation
- Lawn areas
- Trails for Passive Recreation
Additionally, the project could include a restroom, improved beach access, playfield improvements to drainage and irrigation, walking and biking trails, sand volleyball courts, dog-off-leash-area, and other passive and active opportunities for all.
The parcel located to the west of 23rd Ave W has traditionally been used by the Magnolia Youth Soccer Club. The intent is to maintain this active use and incorporate other active recreational activities such as lacrosse, ultimate frisbee, baseball, and softball. During the public process led by the FoSCP in 2015, beach volleyball was highlighted as a potential active use on this parcel. Current improvements may be limited to drainage and irrigation infrastructure to make the current field more playable. However, the long-term vision is that the field be improved so that it is playable year-round and available for a variety of youth and adult sports.
The easterly parcel contains the original Smith Cove Park, a narrow parcel at the south end of the site adjacent to Elliott Bay. King County owns a portion of the parcel and will operate a CSO storage tank currently in the final stages of construction. The new park will be developed around the King County facility and will include shoreline restoration, access to Elliott Bay and other traditional park amenities.
Community Participation
Design Principles-8/26/2016
Public Meeting-10/6/2016
Public Meeting-2/8/2017
Public Meeting-12/5/2017
Seattle Design Commission