Ballard Corners Park is now open

After years of planning and months of hard work, Ballard Corners Park at 17th Ave. between 62nd and 63rd St. is now open.

The fence came down today, and neighbors ventured out into the new grass.

“Waiting for this park, it’s been like torture,” said Ann, who explained how excited she was to play catch with her son for the first time in the park.

Ballard Corners Park features a playground, environmentally-friendly rain gardens and this “living room” area with concrete furniture. Organizers are still mulling an idea to add a “corner store” entryway in the northeast corner.

The park has been a labor of love for many neighbors for years. In 2003, Seattle Parks acquired the first chunk of the property. In 2005, Friends of 63rd St. Pocket Park (now the Friends of Ballard Corners Park) received the first funding to begin planning the park. Last year, construction began, with David Folweiler and Rebecca Carr co-chairing the volunteer committee. And now, thanks to the donations and hard work of many neighbors — many of whom are immortalized in donor tiles — Ballard Corners Park is open for your enjoyment.