Isn’t it amazing how a space can transform? This is Fritz Hedges Waterway Park. It is a 3.5-acre oasis on Portage Bay. It sits in Seattle’s University District. This park is Seattle’s newest. It opened on October 14, 2020.
Fritz Hedges Waterway Park has a story of transformation. The University of Washington once owned this land. They transferred it to the City of Seattle in 2013. Before becoming a park, the site housed the University Police station and the UW surplus store. These buildings were demolished. This opened up public access to the waterfront.
But why “Fritz Hedges”? The park is named after Frederick “Fritz” Hedges. He was a Seattle Parks and Recreation employee. He dedicated his life to the idea that parks are vital.
The creation of Fritz Hedges Waterway Park wasn’t just about recreation. It was also about environmental responsibility. Construction took two years. It included improvements to the shoreline habitat for salmon.
Washington State Department of Transportation contributed significantly to the park’s creation. They provided $14 million to the city. This was compensation for the loss of public waterfront property. It was lost due to the widening of State Route 520. The city added $9 million. The university paid $2.4 million for environmental remediation.
Look around you. The park features a beach. There is also a pier. You can launch canoes and kayaks here.
Consider the materials that built this park. 13400 tons of City of Seattle Type 17 Aggregate were used. 2200 tons of Fish Mix were also used. The park also features 1200 tons of City of Seattle Type 2 Aggregate.
Fritz Hedges Waterway Park isn’t just a pretty space. It’s an award-winning design. In 2021, it won a WASLA Merit Award in General Design, Public Ownership. This recognizes its contribution to the community.
Jesús Aguirre, Seattle Parks and Recreation superintendent, said the project improved the shoreline habitat for salmon. He added that the park offers great recreation opportunities in the dense urban environment.
UW President Ana Mari Cauce emphasized the importance of parks. She said access to green spaces is essential for healthy communities. Especially now, outdoor recreation is so important to our well-being. Fritz Hedges Waterway Park is a beautiful and welcome addition to our neighborhood.
So, as you explore Fritz Hedges Waterway Park remember its story. It is a story of transformation and dedication. It’s a space where recreation meets environmental responsibility. It honors a man who believed in the importance of parks.