Category Overview
Washington is famous for its gorgeous and abundant waterways, from the Salish Sea to the Nisqually River, but many communities lack open public beaches and waterfronts where everyone can enjoy picnicking, swimming, paddling, boating, and angling. Water Access projects fund public shoreline access, boat launches, and fishing docks to create more opportunities for water recreation.
Project Highlights
Terry Pettus Park (TPP) is an exciting development project of Seattle Parks and Recreation (SPR). SPR has acquired adjacent waterfront property to expand the shoreline park. With the new acquisition of approx. 4,000 sf. the expanded park will total approx. 125 feet of shoreline along Seattle’s Lake Union. TPP is in the Eastlake neighborhood, a rapidly growing urban area with high demand for park resources. It is a popular park for aquatic activities, a regional launching spot, and a destination for walkers and bicyclists. Project goals are to provide a variety of outdoor aquatic recreation experiences, connect to urban trails and bikeways, and provide ADA access for launching of hand-carried watercraft, fishing, floats and water access. The project will also include native habitat restoration and shoreline improvements. The site is currently in disrepair with a deteriorating dock, corroded seating and retaining walls, and in need of lines-of-sight safety improvements. RCO grants funds will be used to replace the failing retaining walls, seating, dock, enhanced shoreline access, design and landscaping features that enhance lines-of-sight and improve public safety. Grant funds will also support pathway improvements connecting the Cheshiahud Lake Union Loop Trail, and ADA accessibility to the shoreline and dock. This is the largest waterfront park on east Lake Union and the only park that will provide free waterfront public access that is ADA accessible.