Green Lake Park’s Inner Loop path, which has been restricted to pedestrians only for the last two years, will reopen to all non-motorized wheeled uses by November 1, 2022. Seattle Parks and Recreation (SPR) recommended this change to the Board of Parks and Recreation Commissioners (BPRC) on September 22, following outreach to users of the path. The BPRC unanimously voted in support of this change and emphasized the need to be thoughtful about the transition to ensure clarity for the public and reduce potential conflicts.
Leading up to this decision were the hundreds of emails and phone calls received regarding the Inner Loop, plus six listening sessions SPR hosted for pedestrians, small wheel users, and cyclists. The honest conversations highlighted people’s experiences and ideas over the years at Green Lake Park. Public comment was also received by the BPRC in prior meetings and at the public hearing on this matter.
SPR is working on an implementation plan to ensure the path is ready for this use change. This includes examining signage, trail markings, and ways to educate the public about the updated guidelines. A key part of this plan will be to reinforce the Green Lake Path Courtesy Code, which describes ways for all users to share the path safely. SPR will present this plan to the BPRC on October 13th at 6:30 p.m.
SPR appreciates the hundreds of comments we have received about the Inner Loop’s use guidelines. The experiences shared provide valuable information and perspective to help ensure this shared use path is safe and enjoyable. If you have ideas about ways to make the Green Lake Inner Loop work well for all users, please send them to Todd.Burley@seattle.gov by October 10th.
GREEN LAKE PATH COURTESY CODE
- Always show courtesy and respect the rights of other users, and obey signs
- Warn others when passing
- Stay on your side of the path
- Maintain safe speed at all times (10 mph max)
- Move slowly through congested areas
- Keep dogs on standard length leashes (5-foot maximum)
Walkers and Joggers
- Use inside lane only (closest to lake) or jogging paths
- For your own safety, we suggest you walk or run facing bicyclists and skaters
- Travel no more than two abreast
Bikers and Skaters
- Yield to pedestrians
- Use outside lane only (farthest from lake)
- Keep right
- Travel one way only in direction of arrows
- Bike or skate in single file