Seattle Parks and Recreation Annual Report - 2007

Community Centers Levy

In 2007, we came close to implementing all the projects named in the Community Centers Levy, completing eight of the nine projects. (The following projects are listed in order of completion.)
Magnuson: New - $3.1 million
The renovation of an existing building at Magnuson Park created a new community space complete with a theater. It was completed in January 2004.

High Point: Expansion/renovation - $3.7 million
This expansion project was completed in March 2004, and earned a certification from the U.S. Green Building Council through its Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) program.

Jefferson: Expansion/renovation - $2.5 million
The addition of a gymnasium and other amenities expanded this facility for greater community use. The renovation was completed in September 2004.

International District/Chinatown: New - $2.1 million
A public-private partnership and co-location with a branch of the Seattle Public Library has made this a hugely popular community amenity. The center was completed in September 2004.

Yesler: Replacement - $6.6 million
This brand new center is a model of energy efficiency, earning a Gold LEED certification. The center was completed in February 2005.

Southwest: Expansion/renovation - $2.3 million
A new gymnasium, teen center, and computer lab added much-needed services. It was completed in May 2005.

Northgate: New - $8.2 million
As the civic center of Northgate, this new community center is co-located with a brand new park and branch library. The center opened in July 2006 and is expected to receive a Gold LEED certification for its innovative and "green" design.

Van Asselt: Expansion - $3.9 million
An increase of 8,000 square feet more than doubled the size of the old center, adding a kitchen, foyer and meeting rooms. The center opened in February 2007.

Belltown: New - $1.9 million
As the last project to be completed from the Community Centers Levy, Belltown has been a challenging neighborhood in which to find a suitable and affordable location. The intent is to develop an approximately 5,000- to 7,000-square-foot facility with a multi-purpose room, kitchen, and spaces for neighborhood events and celebrations that can serve as a civic focal point, available for public meetings, classes and rentals.

Previous attempts to site the facility with the Low Income Housing Institute's (LIHI) Belltown View site were unsuccessful. Parks has actively investigated many locations in the Belltown neighborhood for a short-term lease arrangement to house a community center; however, spaces meeting criteria for a center have been virtually non-existent. We are now actively exploring other options for a permanent location.

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