MISSION ACCOMPLISHED Banner mocks fenced-off closure of Capitol Hill park

Seven Hills Park in Seattle remains closed as the Seattle Parks Department and City Councilmember Joy Hollingsworth have not provided updates on its status or plans for improvement. The park's closure, initiated for a 60-day period due to rising complaints about encampments and crime, has sparked public frustration. Recently, a protester jumped the fence to hang a banner that parodies George W. Bush's "Mission Accomplished" speech, highlighting the perceived ineffectiveness of the city's response. City officials stated the closure would enable assessments of potential amenity changes, but no specific plans have emerged.

The area adjacent to the park has faced challenges for years, with attempts to clear campers occurring as recently as August. Community members express concern over the lack of transparency and engagement in the decision-making process. Without a reopening date or concrete improvement plans, residents are left questioning the future of this public space. The situation underscores ongoing issues surrounding public safety and the management of urban park spaces in Seattle.