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Seattle's waterfront will soon boast the addition of the newly reconstructed Pier 58, set to open on July 25. The space promises nearly 50,000 square feet of park, nestled between iconic landmarks The Seattle Great Wheel and the Seattle Aquarium, ushering a refreshed vibrancy to the area's scenic views, The Seattle Times reported.
To commemorate this occasion, the city has planned a community event, free of charge, and it's shaping up to be an engaging afternoon for families. From 4 to 8 p.m., attendees are encouraged to don marine-themed attire and immerse themselves in the pier's new playground, as per the details provided by FOX 13 Seattle. While, Mayor Bruce Harrell fondly reflected on Pier 58's legacy, stating, "Since 1974, Pier 58 — once known as Waterfront Park — has been part of so many waterfront memories. Now, we celebrate its return as yet another incredible piece of our reimagined, expanded 20-acre Waterfront Park, and a one-of-a-kind play space for our kids! This new space promises a memorable experience for all, whether you call Seattle home or are visiting from afar. The redesigned Pier 58 honors our past and points to a future built on safe, welcoming, and accessible public space for all."
Pier 58's journey to renovation, however, hasn't been without its setbacks. It was closed for years following a partial collapse in September 2020, during its construction that resulted in two workers falling into Elliot Bay, which KOMO News covered in its reporting. One of the workers sustained injuries serious enough to necessitate hospital care.
The path to completion has seen financial hurdles as well. The city of Seattle awarded a $34.5 million construction contract in May 2022, but not without eventual friction. In September 2024, the contractor filed a lawsuit against the city, alleging that changes to the work order had caused "irreparable damage," and claimed compensation for the additional repairs was due to them, as informed by KOMO News.
