FOLLOWUP: Hiawatha Community Center work finally starting on Monday

(WSB file photo)

A resident near Hiawatha Community Center told us the contractor for the long-delayed “stabilization” project was making the rounds today informing neighbors that work is about to start – and Seattle Parks has just confirmed it. Optimus Construction Co. was chosen as contractor, with a $2.5 million bid, and Parks says Optimus has received the Notice to Proceed, so they will “mobilize on site” starting Monday. Parks says that means “the contractor will set up construction fencing to allow for deliveries and construction activities on the east and south side of the Hiawatha Community Center building.” According to Parks, “This project addresses a number of major maintenance, accessibility, and program space needs at Hiawatha Community Center. It will include a seismic retrofit of the gym and brick veneer, roof replacement, and renovation of the restrooms, kitchen, childcare area and lobby spaces, in addition to relocation of the teen room.” Hiawatha has already been closed for four years; here’s our December story with Parks officials attempting to explain why.

sbre March 8, 2024 (6:22 pm)

This longtime Hiawatha coach is eager to ger back on that court with our neighborhood kids!!!

Michelle March 9, 2024 (8:09 am)

Hip hip hooray!

Admiral-2009 March 11, 2024 (5:19 pm)

The perimeter fencing needs to be refined to maintain access to the heavily used walking/running path on the south side of the building and they should have maintained access to the basketball hoop on the north side of the building. Also restroom access is gone, I hope they plan on providing a porta potty for the public to use. The turf field is constantly getting used and not having a restroom to use is not good.

Monica March 25, 2024 (4:01 pm)

Does anyone know what happened to the playground renovation? I did a quick search on the blog and it said they had finalized the the plans in 2020 but still no updates on the playground. Thanks!!!