Ballard Commons Park play area construction to start next week

Meghan Walker Ballard

A new playground is coming to Ballard Commons Park.

Plans for the play area have been in the works for years, and now Seattle Parks and Recreation (SPR) says they’re ready to break ground on Monday, Aug. 28.

Called The Cove, the nautical-themed playground will have climbing structures and slides. SPR says they’re also installing a new seat wall, planting more trees, and making some utility updates during the project.

Seattle Parks says part of the eastern border of the park along 22nd Ave NW will be closed during construction.

“I’m excited the next phase of improving Ballard Commons is underway with the addition of the children’s playground,” Councilmember Dan Strauss said in a statement.

“The next phases will be the housing projects at St. Luke’s Church scheduled to begin this fall. The Ballard Alliance and community members have championed the addition of this children’s playground for years and partnered with me to secure funding for the project. Building momentum takes time and it is finally becoming a reality! Thank you to Seattle Parks & Recreation for making this happen.”

The Ballard Alliance secured grant funding from the Seattle Office of Economic Development for the initial community engagement process and hired West Studio to help with outreach and design, SPR says.

Councilmember Strauss sponsored a budget amendment that awarded the project $1 million of REET funding in 2022 to cover final design, permitting, project management, and construction.

“The Ballard Alliance is excited to see the playground construction begin this month. We are truly grateful for our partnership on the project with the Mayor’s Office, Seattle Parks and Recreation and the Office of Councilmember Strauss. Not only does this new place offer an amazing opportunity for youth and families in our Ballard urban core, it’s a welcome addition that will help complete the transformation of Ballard Commons Park,” said Ballard Alliance Executive Director Mike Stewart.

The new play area will open in early 2024.

Photo courtesy Ballard Alliance