Bitter Lake Reservoir Dam

In 1958, the Bitter Lake Reservoir Dam and its accompanying pump station came to life. This wasn’t just another dam. It was a vital part of Seattle’s growth, a symbol of the city’s northward expansion. The Bitter Lake Reservoir Dam, holding 21,500,000 gallons, was built to address the needs of a booming population and the anticipated influx of new residents and businesses. The dam and pump station, constructed by the Seattle Water Department, were strategically placed just inside the northern city limits, near Linden Avenue North and North 143rd Street. This area, previously traversed by the Interurban Railway, was also close to the popular Playland amusement park. Imagine the lively atmosphere of the time, with families enjoying the thrilling rides and the reservoir standing as a quiet sentinel nearby. The construction of the Bitter Lake Reservoir Dam was part of a larger plan. The city was preparing for a new water source from the Tolt River. This source would serve both north Seattle and its northern suburbs, requiring additional storage capacity like the Bitter Lake Reservoir. The dam’s pump station is similar in design and materials to the Lincoln Reservoir and Warren Avenue North Pump Stations, all built around the same time. The Bitter Lake Reservoir Pump Station is a one-story, L-shaped building. It is clad in roughcut stone and wood panels, nestled at the base of the reservoir’s berm. Interestingly, the original plans also included an elevated tank, which was never built. Also, the site itself once housed a large wood-frame dance hall, likely connected to Playland. While modest in design, the Bitter Lake Reservoir Dam and its pump station hold a significant place in Seattle’s history. They represent the city’s foresight in planning for growth and ensuring a reliable water supply for its expanding population. They are reminders of a time of significant change and development in the city’s northern reaches.