Hiawatha Play Area Relocation and Renovation
Updated: March 25, 2025
Spring 2025
During the contracting review before the bid advertisement, Seattle Public Utilities (SPU) identified that the permit issued by SDCI did not comply with the 2021 Stormwater Code and that the permit needs to be amended. When the Stormwater Code was updated in 2021, there was a change to the flow control standards for listed creek basins. Hiawatha Playfield is located within the Schmitz Creek drainage basin, and the scale of the project triggers a detention requirement to comply with changed flow control standards. Unfortunately, this updated detention requirement was overlooked during the permit review. The existing on-site stormwater management plan must be redesigned to incorporate a detention system, plus a new drain line connection to the storm mainline located in SW Lander St.
The design team is revising the plan to apply for a permit amendment. The project will be advertised for construction when the permit revision is approved.
The schedule is subject to change depending on how long the permit review takes. This webpage will be updated with any changes to the schedule.
In 2022, the Seattle Department of Construction & Inspections (SDCI) approved a construction permit for the Hiawatha Play Area Renovation, and the Landmarks Preservation Board issued a Certificate of Approval. The design team was finalizing the construction documents to advertise the bid for construction in winter 2023.
To review the design, see the Hiawatha Play Area Design & Elements PDF document 
Location
Hiawatha Playfield, 2700 California Ave SW, 98116
Budget
The 2013 King County Parks Levy provides $800,000 in funding for this project.
Schedule
Planning and Design: Fall 2019 - Summer 2022
Permit Revision: Fall 2023 - Early 2025
Bidding: Summer 2025
Construction Start: Fall 2025
Project Description
The project will remove the play area from the north end of the park and provide a new play area just south of the wading pool. The project will provide new play equipment, park amenities and landscaping. The new play area site and features will provide improved visibility and access for all. The project includes restoring the old play area site for nature play.
During construction, the contractor will need to close the play area site. Seattle Parks and Recreation and the contractor hired for the project will work to minimize the impact on the park and neighborhood.
Community Participation
Open House- 10/25/2019
Public Meeting - 2/27/2020