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ƛ̕ax̌ʷadis (Tl' awh-ah-dees) Park - Waterfront & Open Space Access
Discover the magic of ƛ̕ax̌ʷadis (Tl' awh-ah-dees) Park! Enjoy pedestrian bridges and viewing decks, accessible pathways, a watercraft wash-down station, elevated boardwalks, nature paths, a community gathering plaza and picnic shelter, kayak storage, launching facilities for hand carry watercraft, a public restroom and easy parking.
The park includes improvements that renovated riparian and salmon habitat along the Swamp Creek Shoreline, created new wetland, and increased native vegetation. Over four acres of invasive species were removed and over 15,000 new native plants and 5,000 new native trees were planted throughout the park project area.
How to pronounce ƛ̕ax̌ʷadis (TI' awh-ah-dees):
This recording was made possible by Michele Balagot, Lushootseed Department Manager at The Tulalip Tribes. Lushootseed instructor Sarah Miller is speaking in the recording.
ƛ̕ Somewhat like the ttle in little, but with a glottalized pop of air.
a Like the a in father.
x̌ʷ Like ch in German ach, only pronounced with rounded lips.
a Like the a in father.
d Like d in day.
i Like the i in police. In some dialects it’s pronounced like the e in they.
s Like s in sing.
Click here for a Lushootseed pronunciation guide.
In April of 2021, Kenmore City Council passed a unanimous motion to change the name of Squire’s Landing Park to ƛ̕ax̌ʷadis (Tl' awh-ah-dees), the name of the Lushootseed village previously located in or near present-day downtown Kenmore. ƛ̕ax̌ʷadis translates to “a place where something is grown or sprouts” and honors the Coast Salish People who originally inhabited the area, and the many Indigenous Peoples who still reside here. The new name of the park will go into effect upon completion of the Walkways and Waterways parks project improvements in 2023.
Project Description & History
The 6-acre project is a public water access, park infrastructure improvement, and habitat enhancement project which will preserve and enhance ecological functions of existing wetlands and their buffers, enhance habitat along the shoreline of Swamp Creek, and create new wetlands, while still providing improvements for public access. The proposed park improvements at the park property include American’s with Disabilities Act (ADA) accessible pathways, parking lot, restroom, watercraft wash-down station for hand-carried boats, elevated boardwalks, pedestrian bridges and viewing decks, nature paths, a community gathering plaza and picnic shelter, kayak storage, launching and moorage floats, and a hand-carry boat access. The Project also plans to construct habitat benches along Swamp Creek to create overwater and in-water habitat complexity and increase stream habitat value. Native plants will be installed throughout the riparian and upland areas of the site to increase the function of existing habitat. The Project worked to avoid direct impacts to Swamp Creek or the Sammamish River by directing most of the in-water and overwater improvements to the existing man-made lagoon at Squire’s Landing Park. Additionally, shoreline restoration along the man-made lagoon will provide habitat improvements for fish and wildlife. A new float was been installed at the park in 2018, an early success for the remaining improvements that are scheduled for construction in 2022.
This project is part of The Walkways & Waterways approved 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.
Squire’s Landing Park is located at 7515 NE 175th Street in Kenmore. This waterfront park features .65 acres with over 150 lineal feet of shoreline access to the Sammamish River and Swamp Creek in addition to a 40+ acre area of undeveloped open space. Squire's Landing is host to youth and adult canoe, kayak and dragon boat programs. Squire's Landing is named in honor of Watson Squire, an early Kenmore developer who had visions for a local waterfront park in the early 1900s.
Kenmore community celebrates cutting the ribbon at ƛ̕ax̌ʷadis (Tl' awh-ah-dees) Park
KENMORE, Wash. – On May 6, 2023, the City of Kenmore hosted a ribbon cutting ceremony to commemorate the completion of the ƛ̕ax̌ʷadis (Tl’ awh-ah-dees) Park Waterfront & Natural Open Space Access Project and recognize the park's official name change. The event garnered a strong turnout, including civic leaders, city staff, contributing artists, and a large crowd of community members who gathered in the new waterfront plaza overlooking the Sammamish Slough. The event celebrated the many new park improvements that provide habitat improvements for fish and wildlife and also increase public access to the water.
Guest speakers during the event included City of Kenmore Mayor Nigel Herbig; King County Councilmember Rod Dembowski; Washington State Senator Derek Stanford; Washington State Representative Davina Duerr; Washington State Representative Shelley Kloba; and City of Kenmore Parks Project Manager Maureen Colaizzi, who successfully managed the project from start to finish.
"In my role I have had the opportunity to see a lot of aquisitions of open spaces and parks, and in my time I don't think I have ever seen a park this beautiful," said King County Councilmember Rob Dembowski. "I hope you will pause to look and listen to the wildlife and nature because it really connects you. That's what this park is about and that's what the vision of Kenmore and its residents is about. It's about reconnecting this city and its community to the water."
"The efforts here at ƛ̕ax̌ʷadis Park are years long in the making and I have often looked at Kenmore and thought there is something really special happening here," said Washington State Representative Davina Duerr. "It's a little city, but the synergy between your elected officials, city staff, and residents is really bar none and you get amazing things done here in Kenmore. Thank you for providing this park and destination."
Local artists who contributed to the project were also highlighted during the ceremony. Ty Juvinel, a Coast Salish Carver and Artist from the Tulalip Tribe, was recognized for his painted mural,"Salmon Scarcity", with cedar posts, and stunning blue aluminum spindle whorl attached to the lagoon bridge. Public Artist Jennifer Dixon was recognized for her work creating the signature “BirdBlinds” artwork, which cast delightful, decorative shadows across the park.
The Waterfront & Natural Open Space Access Project at ƛ̕ax̌ʷadis (Tl’ awh-ah-dees) Park, approved by voters through the 2016 Walkways and Waterways bond measure, improves access to the water while restoring native vegetation for wildlife habitat. The project site includes improvements that renovate riparian and salmon habitat along the Swamp Creek Shoreline, create new wetland, and increase native vegetation. Over four acres of invasive species were removed and over 15,000 new native plants and 5,000 new native trees were planted throughout the the park project area.
In addition to environmental enhancements and protections, the project includes new amenities for public access and recreation. Amenities include pedestrian bridges and viewing decks, accessible pathways, a watercraft wash-down station, elevated boardwalks, nature paths, a community gathering plaza and picnic shelter, kayak storage, launching facilities for hand carry watercraft, a public restroom and parking lot.
In April 2021, the Kenmore City Council approved a name change from Squire’s Landing Park to ƛ̕ax̌ʷadis (Tl’ awh-ah-dees) Park, the name of the Lushootseed village previously located in or near present-day downtown Kenmore. ƛ̕ax̌ʷadis translates to “a place where something is grown or sprouts” and honors the Coast Salish People who originally inhabited the area and the many Indigenous Peoples who still reside here. The name was recommended by the Kenmore Heritage Society, Ray Fryberg (Tulalip Tribes), and Iissaaksiichaa Ross Braine (Kenmore Resident /Apsaalooke Nation).
After the ceremony, the Kenmore Waterfront Activities Center (KWAC) hosted a Waterfront Activities Fair in the park that was open to the public and provided opportunities to try hand-powered water sports, including canoeing, kayaking, and dragon boating. KWAC has partnered with the City to provide a variety of ongoing programming and activities that support access to the water. KWAC will provide scholarships for those wishing to participate.
Thank you to the project team and partners, lead by City of Kenmore Parks Project Manager, Maureen Colaizzi: Strider Construction Co., Inc. with Boulder Creek Landscape Construction, Osborn Consultant Inc. with KBA Inc., Mott MacDonald LLC with J.A. Brennan Associates PLLC, Confluence Environmental Inc., Tree Solutions Inc., Landau Associates Inc., Davido Consulting Group, Jennifer Dixon, Kenmore Heritage Society with the Burke Museum and Ty Juvinel.
ƛ̕ax̌ʷadis (Tl’ awh-ah-dees) Park is located at 7515 NE 175th Street in Kenmore, Washington.
- View a short highlight video of the event, including aerial footage of ƛ̕ax̌ʷadis (Tl’ awh-ah-dees) Park.
- Watch the full length video of the ribbon cutting ceremony for ƛ̕ax̌ʷadis (Tl’ awh-ah-dees) Park.
- Visit the project website to learn more and listen to a pronunciation of the park’s new name:
www.kenmorewa.gov/wwtl
2024
Staff installed a rail assist system on the kayak launch for water sport users creating a more accessible launch and return.
October 23, 2023
This week Public Works completed the installation of the Twedt family’s (former residents of the site) steel cut salmon art sculpture out at ƛ̕ax̌ʷadis Park.
October 15, 2023
This week, Artist Jennifer Dixon and her fabricator assisted the City will installing Artwork Plaques for both the 1% for Art Artworks and the Cultural Artworks that were installed at the park. Staff continues to work with the Contractor on plant establishment through spring of 2024 and punch list items. This month, power will be temporarily turned off for a few weeks to allow for replacement of electrical panels and installation of the utility box covers.
September 25, 2023
The park opened on April 7th for public use and the Ribbon Cutting was held May 6th. One would think the project is done. There is still more work to be done. The project is substantially complete and final contract work will continue into spring of 2024. This includes punch list items, final permit inspection and approval, boardwalk repair, and plant establishment.
Punch List Work Completed:
1. Boardwalk screws replaced and treated for protection from the elements, completed 9/8/23.
2. Last Friday, Strider was out at the park last Friday to add fines and compact the west side gravel parking lot for better vehicle support. Completed 9/15/23.
3. Rope Assists were added to the two Kayak Launch. How to use Rope Assist Video will be shared on our webpage and Social Media. Completed 9/15/23.
4. Later this month, fencing around the picnic shelter will be removed as the lawn is well established.
5. Utility boxes will be installed overtop existing power boxes on the east and west side of the park. The east utility box temporary fencing will be removed, a concrete pad poured to receive the new metal utility box. The west power box is ready to receive the new utility box. The boxes will receive an Art Wrap overtop of them after the artist completes design/fabrication.
East Entrance Temporary Wood Fence will be removed, concrete pad poured to receive new Metal Utility Box.
7. West side power panel will be enclosed with a metal utility box.
A Wrap will be added to both later this year like others throughout the City (below is an example of one outside of St. Edward State Park). Staff is receiving an artwork design proposal from Public Artist, Jennifer Dixon.
8. Strider Construction Company and Boulder Creek, landscape subcontractor, have been hard at work over the summer working to remove weeds and invasive species to comply with required permit conditions.
This fall, Strider is expected to provide transition plates at approximately 47 locations on the boardwalk where it turns. This will prevent any gaps in the boardwalk grating material that exceeds ½" to meet ADA requirements. City is waiting to review material submittal, design shop drawings and a mock-up before installation. Once approved, they will be manufactured and installed. The transition will be raised 1/8” above the boardwalk grating material like the steel plates installed between the boardwalk and the bridges pictured except smaller in width.
8. As-Built drawings are being finalized for submittal to Development Services.
9. Permit punch list items need to be met before the project is accepted as final.
10. These include storm water tasks such as replacement of the water quality filter under the parking lot and dissipation of stormwater before entering the wetland buffer.
Below are the Contech Filter Box and area to be planted with grasses to dissipate stormwater from gravel Boat Storage Area to the wetland buffer.
May 15, 2023
In late 2020 city staff were approached by Paul McGovern, President of the Washington Waterfowl Association to install duck boxes at ƛ̕ax̌ʷadis (Tl' awh-ah-dees) Park. Paul patiently waited while the park underwent renovations, and was recently able to install 2 duck boxes. We are very excited about the opportunity to use this public area to create more awareness around the importance of wetlands conservation. Visit here for more information.
May 1, 2023
This week park signage was installed: one large monument entry sign at the parking lot entrance, one small entry sign at the northwest pedestrian entry, directional and regulatory signs, four interpretive sign and three “You Are Here” location maps.
This week park signage was installed: one large monument entry sign at the parking lot entrance, one small entry sign at the northwest pedestrian entry, directional and regulatory signs, four interpretive sign and three “You Are Here” location maps.
Ty Juvinel installed the Mural just north of the waterfront plaza near the row of cedar trees. The Spindle Whorl that will attach to the north facing side of the lagoon bridge is anticipated to be installed late next week before the ribbon cutting. It is still in fabrication.
Staff collaborated with KHS and the Burke Museum on two of the interpretive signs and 10 native plant markers that commemorate the new park name and honor the livelihood of Coast Salish People who originally inhibited the area and the many Indigenous Peoples who still reside here. The plant markers have arrived and should be installed next week by staff.
April 24, 2023
Ty Juvinel will be installing the Mural Sculpture this coming week. The Spindle Whorl is in fabrication. They are still working to finalize the mounting system for the piece to attach to bridge.
The restroom building is anticipated to be open and park signage installed next week. A temporary electrical panel was installed on the westside. It is awaiting PSE to turn on power on that side of the park. Utility boxes arrive in late summer. Green mesh construction fencing was placed around the westside seeded lawn areas until well established. In addition, herbivore protection fencing was placed around much of the restoration areas to keep beaver, deer, birds and other animals from eating plants until root systems can become stronger to hold up to animal interaction.
April 10, 2023
The park opens as of Friday, April 7th! The City has issued Strider Substantial Completion acceptance with conditions to allow for a soft park opening this Friday, April 7th with a formal Ribbon Cutting Ceremony on Saturday, May 6th at 10am. The restroom will be closed to allow for the automatic locks to be inserted. Staff plan to have a temporary portable restroom placed onsite. Park signage will be installed April 20-21. A temporary electrical panel was installed on the westside. It is awaiting PSE to turn on power on that side of the park. Utility boxes arrive in late summer. Green mesh construction fencing will be placed around the westside seeded lawn areas until well established. In addition, herbivore protection fencing was placed around much of the restoration areas to keep beaver, deer, birds, and other animals from eating plants until root systems can become stronger to hold up to animal interaction.
March 27, 2023
Strider continues to complete remaining work at the westside parking lot to repave the ADA parking stall and path to the garage and punch list items through early April. Park signs (entry, wayfinding, regulatory, interpretive) and electrical utility boxes will be delayed in being installed until late spring/early summer due to material delays and long lead times for fabrication. The City will issue Substantial Completion acceptance with conditions to allow for park opening.
As previously reported, The Kenmore Heritage Society (KHS) is contributing two artworks at Tl’ Park by Ty Juvinel and 10 native plant markers anticipated to be installed in April. The plant marker designs are complete and submitted to the fabricator. They include a photo of the plant, its ethnobotanical category and its Lushootseed, binomial nomenclature and common name. Ty Juvinel’s artworks include a painted mural with cedar posts and aluminum spindle whorl attached to the lagoon bridge.
March 13, 2023
With warmer temperatures, work can continue at the site. Public Artist, Jennifer Dixon, completed her final art installation: the steel cut artwork at the corner of the boat storage area. This artwork casts a decorative shadow denoting the entry plaza from the parking lot. The westside boat storage garage received a new paint job! Painted the same colors as the Log Boom Park Concessionaire building, it really fits in nicely with the new improvements. Split rail protection fencing was installed along the southside of the parking lot and a new path will be added from the garage to the water access path to provide users a route without impacting the southern shoreline, delineated wetland, and it’s seeded buffer. The pre-construction paved ADA stall is being replaced with the new asphalt access path. Strider also completed the stairs adjacent to the ADA ramp.
March 13, 2023 continued
Over the next three weeks, remaining work and punch list items will be addressed including paving, plant installation, seeding and minor corrections as shown above. Due to long lead times for fabrication and material delays outside the control of the Contractor, park signs and electrical utility boxes will be delayed in being installed until late spring/early summer. The City will issue Substantial Completion acceptance with conditions to allow for park opening and ribbon cutting (dates TBA).
Artist Ty Juvinel, hired by Kenmore Heritage Society (KHS) will install two artworks at the park: a painted mural and an aluminum spinal whorl in locations approved by City Council. The painted mural will be located along the eastside of the entry path near the waterfront plaza and the colored aluminum spindle whorl will be attached to the lagoon bridge facing north.
KHS is also preparing 10 native plant markers for fabrication and installation by staff. These markers will include a photo of the plant and its ethnobotanical category of use. Native plant names will be listed in Lushootseed, binomial nomenclature and common naming. Draft designs below. Installation of artworks and plant markers is yet to be determined but anticipated before the ribbon cutting ceremony.
February 18, 2023
Boardwalk ADA handrail and the stairs adjacent to the ADA ramp are installed this week. Wildlife deterrent fencing and overhead netting was added in planting areas where birds have plucked plants out of the ground preventing plant establishment. Jen Dixon’s top Ipe rail is installed to complete the Bird Blind Artworks at the three viewpoints. Next week she installs the steel cut structure at the corner of the boat storage facing the parking lot entrance. Additional habitat/shoreline protection split rail fencing will be installed and permit inspections and punch list begins.
February 11, 2023
Public Artist, Jen Dixon continues her installation at the three boardwalk viewpoints of Swamp Creek and the Sammamish River. The Corten Steel roofs and guardrail were installed creating great shade and shadow on the boardwalk. Still to be complete is the Ipe’ wood railing. Jen is also working on a steel structure at the corner of the boat storage are facing the parking lot entrance serving as an entry image.
February 10, 2023
To resolve an area of ponding, Strider installed a trench drain to better convey stormwater to its permitted location between the asphalt path and the concrete waterfront plaza. The sliding gate on the westside of the waterfront plaza that crosses King County’s Trunk Line easement was installed per the Special Use Permit conditions. Work was granted for Saturday to install the final chain link fence gate at the boat storage area. Plants, Plants and More Plants were installed. February will be the month for completing work towards Substantial Completion, permit inspections and punch list. Because of material delays and weather dependent work, garage paint, park signage, and utility boxes will be completed later this spring.
January 28, 2023
Jen Dixon begins installation of her signature “Bird Blind” Artworks at the three viewpoints. She will complete installation in early February. Plant installation continues. Electrical connections to outlets begin. Site furniture is installed.
January 7, 2023
A total of 3,529 plants were delivered this week and installation began.
The boardwalk handrail/guardrail installation is substantially complete until Jennifer Dixon’s bird Blind Artworks are installed. See the images below of the design model and the artworks in fabrication.
Commercial Fence Company, the Subcontractor, started installation of the fencing for the recreation programming boat storage. Next week they will begin to install the cedar split rail wetland buffer protection fencing.
December 17, 2022
The recent snow events have slowed progress; however, work continues. Strider is expected to work normal working days/hours through the end of the year aside from observed holidays aside from Saturday, 12/17.
Plant installation depends on temperatures above 30 degrees; however, progress continues this week through next week. Strider prepared the lagoon area alder tree which already has an active bird’s nest into a live habitat snag tree. It is very striking to view next to the lagoon waters edge.
The boardwalk handrail/guardrail installation continues through the end of the year. The artist, Jennifer Dixon’s wood engraved handrail was fabricated and has begun to be installed by the Contractor.
Black fence posts were installed along the west property lines and posts and fencing were installed on the east property line. Commercial Fence Company, the Subcontractor, will work this Saturday to finish attaching the black vinyl fencing to the westside posts.
Final electrical connections and cedar split rail fencing for wetland buffer protection will be installed the last week of December between holidays if weather permits.
Work yet to completed in the new year includes completion of plant installation, adding utility boxes, park signage, garage building painting and the artist’s installation of the Bird Blind sculptures.
This week plant installation progresses and the boardwalk installation continues. Some handrail sections and the viewpoints await the public artist’s engraved ipe and the Bird Blind installation. Invasive trees were removed to make way for native plants. Site furnishings begin to be placed for installation. Property line chain link fence and buffer protection split rail fencing will begin to be installed next week
November 19, 2022
This week plant installation progresses and the boardwalk installation continues. Some handrail sections and the viewpoints await the public artist’s engraved ipe and the Bird Blind installation. Invasive trees were removed to make way for native plants. Site furnishings begin to be placed for installation. Property line chain link fence and buffer protection split rail fencing will begin to be installed next week
November 9, 2022
Strider continues progress on final boardwalk grating, guardrail, bullrail and handrail installation. Plantings in masses are arriving onsite for installation. Strider’s subcontractor, Boulder Creek, has begun to install plants, section by section. They completed installation of the eastside wetland creation and progress along the boardwalk near the row of Cedar Trees. The westside of the park is seeing improvements. The picnic shelter is installed, pathway paved, ADA ramp, boardwalk, gangways and docks installed. December will show continued progress to substantial completion.
October 21, 2022
The irrigation backflow preventor passed inspection and the system is being tested for leaks starting this week. 986 plants arrived on site this week and over 250 have already been planted. The Arborist visited the site to provide direction related to some trees onsite. Black Locust recruits will be removed as they are categorized as Invasive in King County. Two trees will be pruned into habitat snags - one Cedar in the parking Island that has suffered from this summer/fall’s drought and one Alder that has existing bird nesting. The arborist recommended saturating the existing Cedar with water and adding additional wood mulch to combat the drought conditions. The recommendation is for ongoing maintenance of this species that has been susceptible to dying during our dry hot summers in recent years as climate is changing.
October 14, 2022
A transformative week at the park with park features being installed giving form to the park. Parking Lot Striping and Light fixtures, Bridge over Lagoon affixed, boardwalk grating and railing installation, westside floats and gangways installed. Picnic Shelter foundation formed awaiting installation of the structure.
October 8, 2022
It has been a busy couple of weeks for Strider. The parking lot is paved, extruded curbs installed, and striping placed on Friday. Reminder that the Contech Filter installed under the parking lot collects and cleans storm water runoff before it is conveyed by underground pipe to the north end of the lagoon. The water then outfalls into a dissipation channel and vegetation planting area before entering the lagoon, a Salmon Safe direct discharge design required by the environmental regulatory agencies.
The second bridge arrived and is being set this week over the lagoon to connect the west side of the park with the east. The picnic shelter footings are being formed and the shelter concrete pad will be poured with the Artist’s stampings within the next two weeks. The boardwalk grating is being installed. This week, the Public Artist’s accent blue color grating was installed at the waterfront plaza heading south. The primary grating color is the same color as the one at Rhododendron Park, dark gray.
September 30, 2022
NE 175th Street was repaired after installation of the water and power lines that run underneath the road from the north side of the street. As required by the Utility Permit, the roadway repair extends beyond the impacted area by 20+ feet to either side as a transition to the existing roadway pavement for a smooth surface transition.
On the project site, the gravel paths received their top course and were compacted. The path connecting the concrete entry plaza to the waterfront plaza and west gravel pedestrian entrance was paved.
Strider completed In-Water work in the Lagoon to confirm slope stabilization grading and streambed Sediment/cobble placement was done per the permitted design. Strider had to raise underwater grades that were constructed lower than intended design as shown in BLUE above and cut grades in areas that were higher than the intended design shown in RED above. Shown in WHITE are the intended design slopes. Strider shot surveying points as they did the repairs to reconfirm revised slopes meet permitted Plan design. Survey data will be sent to the Engineer of Record to review and confirm. Interesting process to get the work done correctly, isn't it?
September 8, 2022
Upcoming grinding and paving work near ƛ̕ax̌ʷadis Park: Construction crews will be working along NE 175th Street on
Friday, September 9 to restore asphalt paving that was disturbed to bring water and power to the Squire's Landing/ƛ̕ax̌ʷadis park project site. Grinding will begin on Friday and paving will occur on Tuesday, Sept 13. No road closure is expected – just flaggers and one lane open at a time with delays throughout the day.
August 27, 2022
Although not always photo worthy, August has been busy preparing the site for concrete and asphalt paving work in September. This has allowed for final installation of irrigation, power and telecom conduit lines and lighting installation. PSE will arrive on Monday to complete their work to provide power to the site. Hand carry boat launch gravel placed; City boat storage area
With the Mobile Home debris and structure removed, preparations begin for the Picnic Shelter Pavilion foundation and footings. Unstable soil and high-water table (wetland buffer conditions) required over excavation and backfill with quarry spauls and structural fill (over 8’ deep and 4’ around footings and planned paved areas) to protect the structure and pavement from long term settlement and instability. September will bring major milestones as the 2nd bridge is placed, boardwalk guardrail and grating installation work begins.
August 8, 2022
The parking lot continues to take shape with concrete sidewalks being poured. The section below includes Jennifer Dixon’s concrete stamps. The westside gravel path leading to the water is installed and compacted.
July 29, 2022
The parking lot continues to take shape with concrete sidewalks being poured. The section below includes Jennifer Dixon’s concrete stamps. The westside gravel path leading to the water is installed and compacted.
July 22, 2022
Transformative work was completed this week at the park. Lagoon stabilization continued with the widening at the Confluence of Swamp Creek and the Sammamish River completed. The temporary bridge was removed, The 60’ long bridge crossing Swamp Creek to the peninsula was installed. The mobile home was removed. Concrete work continues with sidewalk to the restroom and seat wall at entry plaza complete.
July 15, 2022
The In-Water work window opened, and work has begun to stabilize banks of the lagoon, widen the lagoon entrance for improved access and water quality. The temporary bridge will be removed and the new 60’ bridge across Swamp Creek will be placed. The mobile home will be removed for the planned picnic shelter. Concrete work continues with sidewalk to the restroom and seatwall at entry plaza.
July 2, 2022
The Waterfront Plaza concrete was poured this week including, Public Artist, Jennifer Dixon’s, tree concrete stamp artworks. A small corner of the plaza was left undone to allow access to construct the bridges and boardwalk turnabout. The hand carry boat access at the north end of the lagoon is being excavated for material placement. Work continued with installation of the boardwalk framing-grating installation starts next week. The in-water work to widen the lagoon for hand carry boat access and water quality improvements begins next week.
June 24, 2022
Exciting work done this week with the crane setting the CXT prefabricated restroom building – arriving on site in two pieces and merged together. More boardwalk piles are cut and frame installed. Transformation will continue in July when the 60’ long bridge crossing Swamp Creek arrives for installation and boardwalk grating work begins.
June 17, 2022
Concrete pours are flowing with curb, gutter and sidewalks. Preparations are being done for the waterfront plaza pour. More boardwalk piles are cut and boardwalk frame installed awaiting the grating. The restroom plumbing was installed, and inspection approved. Subgrade will be compaction tested. The CXT prefabricated concrete restroom structure will be delivered and craned into place next week.
June 11, 2022
With most underground utility work almost complete, work progresses above ground. Visual changes will be more apparent throughout the site. Boardwalk support piles are being cut to size and boardwalk frames installed. The boardwalk grating arrived and is being cut to size and mucked up for installation. Seen below is the boardwalk section 3 that terminates at the northside viewpoint of Swamp Creek where the Cedar Tree row ends. The waterfront plaza subgrade is placed, and compaction tested in preparation for concrete pours. Topsoil is added to the western landscape around the gravel path alignment to begin bringing that area to grade.
May 28, 2022
The parking lot continues to take shape with concrete sidewalks being poured. The section below includes Jennifer Dixon’s concrete stamps. The westside gravel path leading to the water is installed and compacted.
May 21, 2022
The parking lot takes shape adding base course material, installing irrigation sleeving, and pour concrete for the curb and cutter.
May 14, 2022
Strider moves into preparing the site for concrete paving (waterfront plaza featured below), boardwalk and restroom building installation later this month. Parking lot light pole foundations and electrical conduit has been added.
April 9th, 2022
Picture of the confluence of Swamp Creek & Sammamish River Boardwalk Viewpoint Pin piles
Strider continues planting natives, pile driving boardwalk pin piles, grading the site for hardscape surfaces, installing stormwater and irrigation infrastructure. Work in the right of way for water and power connections began and will continue for the next few weeks.
To locate a gravity driven sewer connection, NUD requested the City conduct its second round of potholing along the E-W KC/NUD combined Sewer Trunk Line to find the exact location of an unknown NUD sewer riser. If that is not found, a KC main hole is nearby, requiring coordination and permitting with KC for approved use. If both gravity options are exhausted, a pump would be installed with connection from NE 175th.
April 4th, 2022
ƛ̕ax̌ʷadis Park Project Update: Roadway Work This Week
This week, the contractor for the Waterfront & Natural Open Space Access Project at Squire's Landing Park (renamed ƛ̕ax̌ʷadis and pronounced Tl' awh-ah-dees) will begin work in the street right-of-way to bring water and power from the northside of NE 175th Street to the park.
What to expect:
- Traffic control includes one lane closure with flaggers present on either side to direct traffic
- Work will be intermittent over the next two or three weeks
- Steel plates will be placed over the roadway until work is complete and asphalt is restored
Please drive safely through the work area and be aware of bicyclists sharing the roadway and construction crews nearby. Thank you for your patience as we progress!
March 11, 2022
Kenmore construction projects are being affected by the ongoing concrete workers strike in King County. The strike, which began on December 3, 2021, involves over 300 concrete mixers and drivers who have joined to strike against six of the largest cement suppliers in the region. As a result of the strike, concrete is not available in King County and major infrastructure projects in the region are being significantly impacted, including some of the projects currently in progress in Kenmore:
Currently, there has been no impact to the project schedule because the contractor has focused on other work. Delays may be anticipated later this spring/summer if the strike continues.
February 12, 2022
This week Strider Construction Company completed the work for this In-Water Work Window to construct the habitat benches along Swamp Creek. The Turbidity Curtain throughout the site gets removed after the fish window closes as required by WDFW and DOE. The temporary bridge will stay in place to allow construction activities to occur on the peninsula until the July In-Water Work Window when it will be removed if work is complete. Pile driving continues with most of the work using the Impact Hammer for the larger bridge piles and some boardwalk piles complete this week. Work using the Vibrator Hammer to install the smaller boardwalk piles will continue.
February 4, 2022
This week Strider Construction Company installed the habitat benches along the northside of Swamp Creek. The Department of Ecology (DOE) conducted a site visit this week to review and approve the in-water work being performed. The project received complements on its work. Before in-water work was conducted, a temporary bridge was installed to allow access to the peninsula and protect the waters. This was a BMP implemented as part of the project Water Quality Management and Protection Plan approved by DOE. completed potholing to locate and survey the King County trunk sewer line. This week is a six-day work week (Mon-Sat.) for Strider to conduct the In-Water work, which will continue through February 11th. Pile driving continued in the lagoon.
January 22, 2022
Last week Strider Construction Company completed potholing to locate and survey the King County trunk sewer line. This week is a six-day work week (Mon-Sat.) for Strider to conduct the In-Water work, which will continue through February 11th. Pile driving began with welding, testing and placement in the lagoon. After a site review with the design team, Strider began Swamp Creek habitat benches by clearing Reed Canary Grass (RCG), grabbing and grading the bank’s edge starting from the northeast.
January 7, 2022
This week Strider Construction Company mobilized to begin the start of work. Survey work continues from December. Other activities include perimeter fencing, erosion control measures, gravel construction road/access route through the site, clearing/grubbing including trees identified to be removed, tree protection fencing for those being protected during construction, That work will continue for several weeks. Strider intends to begin work allowed during the Winter In-Water work window for the lagoon, Creek and River beginning as early as next week. To confirm the location of the King County trunk line, they will drill potholes to ensure there are no conflicts with it when pile driving begins for the boardwalk installation. Other In-water work includes the construction of the Swam Creek Habitat Benches.
DECEMBER 16, 2021
Beginning the week of January 3, the western 10 acres of ƛ' a Xw a d i s (pronounced Tl' awh-ah-dees) Park (formerly Squire's Landing Park) will be closed to the public for approximately two years as Strider Construction Company, Inc. begins construction on the 2016 voter-approved Walkways and Waterways Bond Project. The goal of the project is improving environmental protection and enhancing public access to the Sammamish River. Click here for press release.
DECEMBER 7, 2021
Construction bids were opened on November 9th. Strider Construction Company Inc. is the lowest responsible bidder. City Council approved the project for construction on Monday, December 6th. The site is being prepared for the contractor to occupy with onsite construction begin the beginning of January 2022. 10 acres of the park where construction will occur will be closed to the public. The remaining 30 acres of the park will remain open. Informal trails can be found in the northeast corner of the Park. Other nearby recreation options include the Burke Gilman Trail for walking and Rhododendron Park for water access. To protect the public from dangerous construction activities, construction fencing will be installed to isolate the 10-acre construction work area for the duration of construction. Date of closure to the 10-acre project area will be determined in the coming weeks.
No recreation programming will occur at the park during construction.
Contact Kenmore Waterfront Activities Center (KWAC) https://kenmorewac.org/ for more information about interim recreation programming opportunities during construction (including community boat storage).
September 17, 2021
Construction is anticipated this winter for this 2016 voter-approved Walkways and Waterways bond measure project. Consistent with the 2016 Bond Levy concept plans with some changes, this project will restore native habitat areas; create a public hand-powered watercraft facility with staging areas, float and hand-carry launches; and provide a community plaza and enhanced natural areas. The City is in the process of receiving its final permits this spring.
• Bidding is anticipated for mid-October 2021
Construction Winter 2021 through Winter 2023.
The entire western 10 acres of the park will be closed during construction including:
• the gravel parking lot;
• KWAC community boat storage;
• earthen pedestrian trails;
• floating dock in the man-made lagoon; and,
• the float in the Sammamish River.
No recreation programming will occur at the park during construction.
Contact Kenmore Waterfront Activities Center (KWAC) https://kenmorewac.org/ for more information about
Interim recreation programming opportunities during construction (including community boat storage).
August 18, 2021
May 3, 2021
Construction is anticipated for the two 2016 voter-approved Walkways and Waterways bond measure projects at Log Boom and Squire’s Landing Parks starting this summer. Consistent with the 2016 Bond Levy concept plans with some changes, the projects will improve waterfront access to Lake Washington and the Sammamish River as well as restore native vegetation for wildlife habitat.
This project will restore native habitat areas; create a public hand-powered watercraft facility with staging areas, float and hand-carry launches; and provide a community plaza and enhanced natural areas. The City is in the process of receiving its final permits this spring.
- Bidding is anticipated this summer.
Construction Fall 2021 through mid to late 2023.
The entire western 10 acres of the park will be closed during construction including:
• the gravel parking lot;
• KWAC community boat storage;
• earthen pedestrian trails;
• floating dock in the man-made lagoon; and,
• the float in the Sammamish River.
No recreation programming will occur at the park during construction.
Contact Kenmore Waterfront Activities Center (KWAC) https://kenmorewac.org/ for more information about
Interim recreation programming opportunities during construction (including community boat storage).
January 12, 2021
- Bidding begins early 2021 through spring and construction is anticipated Summer 2021 through Summer 2023.
- Major portions of both Log Boom and Squire’s Landing Parks will be closed during construction for approximately two years.
September 20, 2020
Public Comment Period Ends
Over ten citizen’s provided public comment (written or oral) at the Public Hearing on Monday, September 21st for the removal of a restrictive covenant from 1.5 acres at Squire’s Landing Park to comply with the state’s Recreation and Conservation Office (RCO) Land Conversion process.
After citizen comments were received and after discussion, the City Council approved a motion in support of the Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office (RCO)’s action to remove the restrictive covenant from the 1.5 Acres at Squire’s Landing Park. Thank you for your participation, the public comment period has ended.
September 1, 2020
The Kenmore City Council will hold a public hearing via Zoom online platform on Monday, September 21, 2020 at 7:00 p.m. to receive citizen comment (written or oral) on the removal of a restrictive covenant from 1.5 acres at Squire’s Landing Park, 7515 NE 175th Street, Kenmore WA 98028, to comply with the state’s Recreation and Conservation Office (RCO) Land Conversion process. View the September 21, 2020 City Council Agenda here.
Of the 40+ acre Squire’s Landing Park, approximately 19 acres was acquired with state RCO grant funding which required a restrictive covenant that the land be used for passive recreation and wildlife habitat preservation. The City’s Waterfront & Natural Open Space Access Project at Squires Landing Park will improve public access to the Sammamish River. 1.5 acres of the total 7.25-acre project includes the proposed plaza, walkway, restroom and parking lot. For RCO to allow conversion (development) of this area and remove the restrictive covenant, the City purchased 4.8 acres of replacement land located at 7637 NE 192nd Street within the Swamp Creek watershed for preservation of wildlife habitat and passive recreation use.
August 3, 2020
On Monday, June 22, Artist, Jennifer Dixon presented her final designs to City Council for all three park Walkway and Waterways projects at Log Boom Park, Squire’s Landing and Rhododendron Parks. Council approved the three designs and authorized the City Manager to enter into an artworks fabrication contract. The artist is coordinating her fabrication contract schedule with the design team and will begin work to complete final design drawings for contraction in August/September. View the June 22, 2020 City Council Agenda here.
On Monday, July 27, Staff provided City Council an update on the 90% level designs for the both Walkways and Waterways projects at Log Boom and Squire’s Landing Parks. View the July 27, 2020 City Council Agenda here.
Major design refinements at Log Boom Park since 60% level design include: a western pathway realignment and surface change from asphalt to ADA accessible crushed gravel; a drainage design change which necessitated the need to raise the grade between the beach and promenade to eliminate backwatering of the underground drainage system. This change created a step down to the beach from the promenade. ADA access occurs in three places: 1) westside viewpoint; 2) Central ADA beach access path near picnic shelter; 3) eastside hand-carry boat launch. Permits are anticipated to be received and bidding to begin in early 2021 with construction expected between Summer 2021 through Fall 2022.
Major design refinements at Squire’s Landing since 60% level design include: 1) Saving mature trees in the parking lot by eliminating two parking spaces; 2) Redesigning the drainage conveyance system to dissipate stormwater into the Lagoon vs. directly into the Sammamish River; 3) designing features within the 15’ wide King County wastewater easement to lessen potential city repair/replacement costs if disturbed for future maintenance/operations of their underground utility. Permits are anticipated to be received Spring 2021 with bidding and construction expected between Summer 2021-Fall 2023.
May 15, 2020
Biological Assessment: This document evaluates potential effects to species and designated critical habitat listed as threatened or endangered under the Endangered Species Act (ESA).
Construction Stormwater NPDES & State Waste Discharge General Permit Public Notice: This park improvement project is receiving coverage under this permit because it involves 1.5 acres of soil disturbance for this public works project including utilities and landscaping construction activities. The receiving waterbody is the park’s man-made lagoon that is hydraulically connected to Swamp Creek. See attached site plan.
March 5, 2020
Approximately 35 community members attended the Walkways & Waterways Project Update of the 60% Design for Log Boom and Squire’s Landing waterfront projects. The meeting provided an opportunity for the community to listen to a presentation and view design display boards and sample materials. Staff and the design team were available to help answer questions.
February 7, 2020
On Monday, February 10, 2020, staff will update City Council on the design progress being made and next steps for this project.
On Wednesday, February 26, 2020, 6:30pm-8:30pm, staff will host an open house to share the design progress with the public.
A postcard is being sent by mail to all households in Kenmore. See the link below for more information.
March 26, 2018
On Thursday, March 22, the City of Kenmore hosted an Open House on the Walkways and Waterways Squire's Landing and Log Boom Park projects. Thirty-five citizens attended the meeting to learn about project design refinements and engaged with designers and planners to have their questions answered. See below to view the meeting materials:
- Meeting Presentation Video Recording
- Log Boom Park Elements and Refinements Board
- Log Boom Park Plan Board
- Log Boom Park Section Board
- Squire's Landing Park Elements and Refinements Board
- Squire's Landing Park Plan Board
- Squire's Landing Park Section Board
March 19, 2028
On its Monday, March 19 meeting, Kenmore City Council was presented with a Walkways and Waterways - Squire's Landing Park project update from City staff. See below to view the meeting materials: