Seattle Parks and Recreation (SPR) has issued the notice to proceed to A-1 Construction for the Smith Cove Park Phase 1 renovation. A-1 Construction will mobilize on site and close the field in late September 2025. The field is expected to open for use in early summer 2027. Although A-1 will complete construction by the end of 2026, the natural-turf field will remain closed to allow the grass to establish. Smith Cove Park is located on 23rd Ave. W, between the Magnolia Bridge and the Elliott Bay Marina.
Smith Cove Park Phase 1 renovation will focus on improvements to the park’s west parcel/playfield. Phase 1 will add a natural-turf playfield with an underdrain system, a new off-leash dog area, a bioretention basin, irrigation, log zones and widened accessible trails for passive recreation. Native plantings are proposed and will increase species diversity and support more insect and bird habitat. The field has traditionally been used by the Magnolia Youth Soccer Club and this renovation will maintain this active use and incorporate other field recreational activities.
Phase 1 was put on hold during the pandemic. SPR resumed the project in 2024 with the passing of the Seattle Park District Cycle 2(2023- 2028) and updated construction documents to meet current stormwater code for re-permitting. The Seattle Park District provides $3.3 million for the construction project.
Future Phase 2 Smith Cove Park will provide improvements at the east parcel/shoreline side and will be developed as additional funding is identified. The easterly parcel contains the original Smith Cove Park, a narrow parcel at the south end of the site adjacent to Elliott Bay. The new Phase 2 park will be developed around a King County facility and will include shoreline restoration, access to Elliott Bay, and other park amenities per the 2018 Smith Cove Park Vision Plan.
For more information about the project please visit, https://www.seattle.gov/parks/about-us/projects/smith-cove-park-development or contact Janice Liang at janice.liang@seattle.gov.