Seattle's Rainier Valley community is gearing up to welcome a new public space, with Seattle Parks and Recreation announcing the opening of Cheryl Chow Park at 3640 35th Ave. S. The park, which spans 1.2 acres, is set to be inaugurated on Saturday, April 5 from noon to 2 p.m., and the department is extending an open invitation to locals to join in the celebration, featuring music, basketball activities supported by Seattle University Redhawks and games from SPR Rec 'n the Streets, as well as exercise equipment provided by Androfits training, as reported by Seattle Parks and Recreation.
The process of creating the park was a communal endeavor; it involved acquiring four different parcels, the result of which is a new space designed to serve the high-density neighborhood, accommodating multiple generations in its design, according to Seattle Parks and Recreation. The park features over 50 new trees, an open lawn, bioretention swales, pathways, play and fitness equipment, a half basketball court, picnic areas complete with barbeques, and lighting, It also reflects the neighborhood's diversity through textile and fabric designs commemorating the area's range of cultures and heritages.
Seattle's Mayor Bruce Harrell expressed excitement about the opening, stating, "The newest addition to Seattle’s world-class parks system is exciting news for residents in our vibrant and diverse Rainier Valley community, giving them a new gathering space that fosters health and wellbeing," as stated by Seattle Parks and Recreation.
Funding for the park was made possible by Seattle Park District, with additional financial support from King County Conservation Futures, Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office Land and Water Conservation Fund, Wildlife and Recreation Program, King County Parks Capital and Open Space Levy, and Kaiser Permanente. The park, previously known as the N. Rainier Landbank site, is named in memory of Cheryl Chow, who served on the Seattle City Council from 1990-97 and was instrumental in enhancing the city's parks and recreation services.
