July 13, 2022
by Aly Lande
The Port of Seattle and Duwamish Valley communities collaborated on the vision for a park, turning land along the Duwamish River, rich in history and heritage, into something the community (and the Port) can be proud of. After years of cleanup, restoration, and construction, this vision comes to life on Saturday, July 16 from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. in South Park at the new Duwamish River People’s Park and Shoreline Habitat.
This celebration will realize a 20-year vision to transform a piece of contaminated shoreline area into a safe greenspace for the local community and a salmon habitat refuge mimicking the environment that was here before the past 100 years of industrialization. It’s vitally important to preserve these waterways as the Duwamish River is Seattle’s only river and is home to endangered marine wildlife.
The Grand Opening will highlight the diversity of the Duwamish Valley and the South Park neighborhood, which is one of the most ethnically and linguistically diverse in the city. It will celebrate the victories of the community partnerships that have formed the backbone of this project for the past two decades and the innovations in conservation science that this site represents. That’s why the whole neighborhood and the greater Seattle community are invited to see this special place!
This event is free and open to all to enjoy. Stop by and check out performances, speeches, activities, tours, booths, food, and so much more. The nearby Duwamish River Community Hub, an economic development resource center for community, will be open to visitors and feature information booths.
Join us this Saturday, July 16 from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. for the Grand Opening party as we open this precious greenspace and habitat site for all to enjoy.
Here's an event lineup:
Family-friendly activities
- Free lunch
- Park tours
- Kayak tours
- Kids art activities
- Informational Booths
- Duwamish River Community Hub open house
- Language interpretation available all day at the park: Español, Việt, គុណនាម, Af Somali
Environmental education booths
These organizations will have educational booths at the Hub and Park locations.
The Dirt Corps
The organization’s mission is to create access to green careers for all people, working towards a healthy environment, engaging communities, and sustaining the regional economy. They are a collaborative team of professionals and community partners working together to increase access to green jobs to foster healthy communities.
The Duwamish Valley Youth Corps
The Duwamish Valley Youth Corps is a youth engagement program focusing on environmental justice and job skills.
ECOSS
An urban environmental nonprofit in Seattle formed in the 1990s. They deliver environmental solutions that meet the needs of business, people, and nature across Washington. Their goal is to foster thriving communities that are environmentally sustainable and equitable.
and More!
Live music and dance
- Khmer Amarak Performing Arts
- Mariachi Mexico
Free food
Muy Macho
Typically parked in South Park’s business district and has served the neighborhood for over 20 years. Owner Judith Hererra loves this neighborhood as it's one of Seattle’s most eclectic and diverse. There was a time when Muy Macho had walls, but with rent on the rise, Herrera took her kitchen mobile to continue to serve the community. Get a taste of authentic Mexican food!
Global Chill
Serves vegan-based food, bringing fresh and environmentally sustainable foods to the South Park community. They have a passion for the planet and plant-based foods that are both delicious and healthy. The menu can be described as a mix of Asian, Latinx, and Caribbean fusion. They believe in food justice and that everyone has the right to enjoy nourishment from mother earth.
Full Tilt Ice Cream
Was founded in White Center in 2008 by Ann Magyar and Justin Cline. They are known for their all-natural ice cream and frozen desserts which incorporate as many local ingredients as possible. They operate retail locations in White Center, Columbia City, and Ballard that feature vintage arcade and pinball machines, a mix of sodas, great music, and the best brews of the Pacific Northwest.
Join the celebration between 11:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.
