A funding measure to increase investments in Bellevue’s parks and open space system – Proposition 1: City of Bellevue Levy for Parks and Open Space – will appear on the Nov. 8 General Election ballot. After considering public input and an updated Parks & Open Space System Plan, the City Council approved the measure for the ballot.
Projects in Ballot Proposition
The ballot proposition includes funding to enhance and maintain Bellevue’s parks and open space system. If approved, the package would accomplish the following:
- Preserve open space, greenways and wildlife corridors;
- Develop trails, community parks and neighborhood parks;
- Invest in emerging sports opportunities, off-leash areas and recreation;
- Plan major community facilities like aquatics and cross-cultural centers;
- Restore and develop waterfront parks and protect water quality in Bellevue’s lakes and streams;
- Acquire and develop parks and open space in the Bel-Red and Wilburton areas; and
- Maintain improvements consistent with Bellevue Parks’ standards.
Funding Detail
If approved, this measure would cost an owner of a $1 million home approximately $200 per year for the next nine years, or 20 cents per $1,000 of assessed value. The measure is anticipated to provide the following estimated funding for projects:
Open Space, Greenways, Wildlife Corridors and Trails ($20 million)
Dedicate resources to acquire land that complements the existing parks system, increases public access to lake shores, preserves open space, protects water quality and increases trail connectivity.
Community Parks ($5 million)
Expand opportunities at community parks; allow visitors to experience botanical displays and educational programs such as development of the Bellevue Botanical Garden Wetland Sun Terrace.
Neighborhood Park Development ($20 million)
Acquire, plan, and develop neighborhood parks with amenities like play equipment, open space and trail connections at locations such as Eastgate, Factoria and Ashwood Park.
Recreation and Community Facilities ($10 million)
Plan community facilities such as those that support aquatics and a cross-cultural center.
Waterfront Restoration and Development ($10 million)
Continue phased development of waterfront access including Meydenbauer Bay Park. Protect water quality of Bellevue’s lakes and streams through restoration and refurbishment of waterfront parks.
Bel-Red & Wilburton Park Acquisition & Development ($10 million)
Acquire and develop parks within population growth centers in Bel-Red and Wilburton.
Emerging Sports and Off-Leash Areas ($10 million)
Invest in park enhancements to support emerging sports like pickleball and cricket; improve access for off-leash dogs throughout the park system.
Maintenance and Operations ($4 million annually)
Protect open space and park facilities investments with funding for annual operations and maintenance.