Published May 13 2024
The City of Bellevue Saturday celebrated the opening of Bridle Trails Valley Creek Park, a 1.65-acre neighborhood park in the Bridle Trails neighborhood that offers a window to Valley Creek wetlands and wildlife.
Community members turned out for the gathering, which included festivities and lots of hotdogs.
Features of the new park include play areas for ages 2-5 and ages 5-12, a picnic shelter, picnic tables, benches, hard- and soft-surface paths, an open lawn area, a bathroom and a 12-stall parking lot.
The eastern edge of the property abuts five acres of wetland owned by the city, which will remain undeveloped. A loop trail hugs the wetland buffer restored with native plantings.
“Bellevue’s parks are beloved community assets that bring people together to play, learn and enjoy nature,” said Mayor Lynne Robinson. “Bridle Trails Valley Creek Park offers an opportunity to preserve wetland habitat while ensuring access to natural areas and key park amenities that welcome all community members now and for future generations.”
“Thanks to the community for their active engagement in the planning and development of the park, which reflects the city’s strong working relationship with the neighborhood,” said Michael Shiosaki, director of the Parks & Community Services Department.
The property at 4432 140th Ave. NE, identified by the neighborhood as a potential park site, was acquired from a private seller in 2014. The Parks & Community Services Board and City Council both unanimously approved a plan for the park in 2016.
Construction started in mid-2023 and was completed this spring.
Photos by Nate Gowdy