Provide Feedback on Proposed Layouts by Aug. 25
Now through August 25, residents are asked to provide feedback on three preliminary park layouts for a new, combined Morrill Meadows and East Hill Park which will also be home to a future YMCA.
The results of a June community survey have been used to inform the preliminary concepts for the new combined park, each proposing a unique approach to how the parks should be reconfigured and the features the new park should include. All include dog parks. Some, but not all, of the other features are highlighted below:
Option A – Natural Immersion
- YMCA closest to SE 248th St.
- Sport courts integrated with an expanded trail network
- Picnic plaza
- Outdoor classroom
Option B – Y on the Green
- YMCA centrally-located on the site
- Three-season event plaza
- Outdoor exercise stations
- Rock-climbing wall/tennis backboard
Option C – Art in the Park
- YMCA located at the back of the site
- Art and cultural installations integrated into planting/seating areas
- Space for arts festivals/events
- Sport courts/volleyball courts
Residents can learn more about the three preliminary concepts and provide feedback at MyKentParks.com through Thursday, August 25.
According to Interim Parks Co-Director Garin Lee, both Morrill Meadows and the adjacent East Hill Park are outdated. “Part of the project will be to reconfigure and update the parks to function better as a single park, as well as to decide where in the park the YMCA will be built.
“This round of feedback will help us determine if people have strong feelings for or against certain proposed features, as well as whether or not there is an overall concept respondents prefer,” Lee said.
Mayor Suzette Cooke and YMCA leaders signed a Memorandum of Understanding to build a $25 million recreational facility and pool.
Construction of the first phase of the park renovations is anticipated to begin in 2017.
