Townhouses and mixed-use megaprojects aren’t the only construction projects under way in West Seattle right now, and here’s the proof. This photo is just in, showing work now under way at the Ercolini Park site on Alaska west of The Junction, courtesy of Friends of Ercolini Park volunteer (and WSB sponsor) Bill Barna:
This park is going to be a great thing for the neighborhood. I am curious, though, about why work on it is getting underway, while work on the park at the old substation on California (Dakota Place Park) has been stalled for quite a long time, now.
Thanks for asking JE – those that have to see it every day wonder the same thing! Anyone?
I’m so excited about the park! I just moved into the neighborhood (on 49th) and think it’d great to see this space become a gathering point. Look for me in the spring. I’ll be the awkward 30 something guy at the skate park being shown up by the kids (the ones that’ll be calling 911 when I bite it).
Not exactly sure what the hold up is on Dakota Place (or the junction plaza for that matter)… All of the Pro Parks levy projects are dependent on donations and most importantly volunteer time. There should be a contact on the city announcement sign at the site. Give them a call, in my experience they have been more than willing to give updates, etc. See you at Ercolini!
Yeah, I get that Bill (congrats on your good work BTW), but what’s odd about Dakota Place is that Parks was actually slated to move into the building and use it for meetings, classes, etc. You’d think that if they were committed to its use, it would be done. Instead, it’s such an eyesore. There were some volunteers tied to the Tilden School across the street involved (by now, perhaps their kids have graduated and moved on), but they were kind of doing their own thing with what felt like lip service to the neighbors concerns about parking, etc. Typical though, if you could see the clogged side streets twice daily (dispite plenty of usable parking in their lot). And…off the soapbox. Sorry OT – Bill et al, really, great job. Way to include the neighbors, raise the funds, and get it done! You should write a primer for community projects. How do you feel about beautiful brick shells with lots of leaks but tons of – what’s the real estate term? – yeah, potential ;)
GenHillOne… Couldn’t quite tell if that was a: slam, back-handed compliment, or sincere tip of the hat. I’ll hope for the best and say “thanks” for everyone who has been working on the park (b/t/w we still have a LONG way to go).
I can’t speak for all community projects but we had a handful of committed neighbors that rung the bell and got (in my opinion) overwhelming support for the park.
Maybe Dokota Place just needs someone to take up the cause? In my experience folks just need a leader, after they see what can happen (and how to help) they are VERY VERY generous.
Oh no Bill, backhanded compliments aren’t my style – really was a tip of the hat to you and your group. I like the Dakota building (maybe better when it was covered with ivy and sans cyclone fence but it has character) and a private owner with vision would be welcome in my book. We lost a good one in the beginning. Then after 7 years (that’s just since funding was approved), little response from neighborhood concerns, etc., I wish they would sell the property and move on. We’ve been to meetings, open houses, made phone calls, been on emails…makes one a bit synical.
Sorry, comment time is over.
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