Bouts of negative park activity City fences off Capitol Hills Seven Hills Park, planning changes in three more over encampment concerns

Seattle Parks fenced off Seven Hills Park for a 60-day closure to tackle ongoing issues with encampments and negative park activity. The city aims to assess possible changes and upgrades, which may include adding new amenities like lighting and garden beds. District 3 representative Joy Hollingsworth has been actively involved in discussions but did not respond to inquiries regarding the closure. Originally opened in 2010, Seven Hills Park has faced challenges with encampments, notably during a major sweep in 2022. This closure coincides with the park's fifteenth anniversary, highlighting its ongoing struggles.

Seattle Parks is also looking into Broadway Hill Park and Tashkent Park for similar modifications due to encampment issues. Community meetings will be organized to develop strategies for enhancing park safety and usability. The city's efforts reflect a growing focus on maintaining clean and welcoming public spaces amidst rising concerns over homelessness and drug use.