This project is part of The Walkways & Waterways approved 2016 ballot measure, and the result of the City’s “Imagine Kenmore” public outreach initiative. Kenmore residents confirmed that safe routes for pedestrians and cyclists and connecting residents with the City’s public open space and waterfront are top priorities.

This project will improve public access to the Sammamish River through new trails and environmental enhancements. The big blackberry patch alongside the shared boat launch driveway has been cleared. Native plants will be added around the wetland and along the riverfront. A new boarding float on the river will be provided under the same construction contract but funded separately from the Walkways and Waterways bond issue. Key project goals are to improve public access to waterfront and to preserve and enhance ecological functions of existing wetlands and their buffers.

Funding

• Voter-Approved Bond Measure: $795,000
• Real Estate Excise Tax and Park Impact Fees: $96,024
• Project Budget: $891,024

Rhododendron Community Park is located at 6910 NE 170th Street on the Sammamish River in Kenmore. This 12.5-acre park has 600 feet of Sammamish River shoreline and a 2.6-acre wetland separating the main park from the water. The new path will link the river to the park area by an accessible route across the wetland that also connects to the local Metro bus route on 68th Avenue NE.

The park was named for the many rhododendrons remaining on the property which had been planted by a nationally-recognized rhododendron nursery operating here until King County purchased it for a park in 1965. The park was transferred to Kenmore after Kenmore incorporated in 1998. The park’s spectacular mature rhododendrons can be enjoyed each year in spring and early summer. The park is home to sports camps and the picnic shelter can be reserved for weddings and other gatherings by contacting the Kenmore Senior Center. The popular 68th Avenue boat ramp is located right across 68th Avenue from the park and it shares the park’s access road on the river. Be sure to look up into the many snags near the river to catch sight of ospreys and eagles you will see resting or feeding there.