Westlake Park closed until spring for major upgrade

Westlake Park, the heart of downtown Seattle, is getting a major upgrade.

The park will be closed until May 2026 for construction, the Seattle Parks Foundation announced.

“Seattle Parks Foundation, in partnership with Seattle Parks and Recreation, has convened a cross-section of residents, public agencies, businesses, property owners, and community service providers to improve Westlake Park and reinvigorate Downtown Seattle’s community commons,” the Seattle Parks Foundation stated in a post.

Project design includes electrical upgrades for improved site lighting, improved conditions for existing trees, leveling of existing pavers throughout the site, and the removal of outdated features, including the fountain and arch. Also, improvements to the stage for accessibility and the addition of vehicle barriers using crash-rated bollards and deterrents.

Westlake Park was built in 1988

The Seattle Parks Foundation noted the park, built in 1988, no longer meets community needs as the city has grown around it.

“This project has the opportunity to serve families, tourists, locals, businesses, and property owners by creating a more open gathering space and providing needed amenities to encourage people to spend more time in the heart of the city,” the foundation stated.

Renderings of the remodel can be viewed here.

Follow Julia Dallas on X. Read her stories here. Submit news tips here.