On Wednesday, January 23, we invite neighborhood residents (including families) to come to South Shore Middle School (4800 South Henderson Street, Seattle, WA 98118) from 6-9 p.m., to show your support of our proposals to the Parks Opportunity Levy Oversight Committee. Our proposals are for funds to support: (1) play area and open space enhancements at the Genesee Hill site, and (2) acquisition of the grassy parcel at 48th Ave. SW and SW Charlestown St. to preserve green space.

The first 45 minutes of the above time slot will be an “open house” format where all competing parks proposals will have tables set up with displays about their proposed projects. Each group will then have the opportunity to make a presentation for 3 minutes (sign-ups for a slot will occur upon check-in; therefore, we do not yet know the time of our presentation). Please let us know if you can attend any part of the Wednesday evening meeting!

Enhancements at the Genesee Hill site would be above and beyond the district-funded items that would be provided as part of the new school construction: basic playground for ages 5-12, grassy field, and asphalt play area. Our proposed enhancements would include a playground for ages 2 and up, natural play areas (dirt, rocks, logs), fitness zones, educational native plant and/or rain garden, small amphitheater, meandering walking path/track, bench seating, welcoming entries with art, and more. (If funded by the parks opportunity levy, these enhancements could occur even if the school capital levy does not pass in February.)

We are coordinating this proposal with the school district, Schmitz Park School leadership, and the Hiawatha before-and-after school program that is currently housed at Schmitz Park School, to improve our chances of getting the parks funding. Because the school itself is still under design, the exact location of play area and open space enhancements on the site is yet to be determined.

Thanks,

Kerrie Schurr
Communications Chair
and GSNC Rep. to SDAT